We all have beautiful lives, and yet we have days when we feel like crap. Some days are better than others. And somedays are so crappy that it's hard to remember that things will turn around and we'll feel better. All the great days and challenging days are temporary. 

 

I realize that I don't know w the exact problem you are dealing with, and I can't fix or solve the problems. But, I can help you shift your mood. So, on today's episode of Apothecary Wisdom, I will share 25 simple tools that you can use immediately to improve your mood and your perspective.  

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We all know the many benefits of breastfeeding for us and our babies. If we all know how healthy breastfeeding is, why is it that 80% of moms start nursing right after birth, and by 3 months, only half are still nursing? Because breastfeeding challenges are real. They keep you up at night, and they hurt! Issues like poor latch, tongue tie, sore nipples, low milk supply, problems with infant weight gain, clogged ducts, and mastitis are painful. They can be incredibly discouraging, especially if the mother does not have a reliable support system to help her through difficult times. 

Today's post is about how to treat clogged milk ducts and prevent mastitis. I'll give you practical midwifery tips that encourage and support you to continue to breastfeed your baby.

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After giving birth, a new mother goes through tremendous changes physically, emotionally, and hormonally. She changes more during the first 72 hours postpartum than she does during her entire pregnancy! Her body is no longer dominated by progesterone and estrogen. Now, she is under the influence of lactogen and prolactin, two wonderful feel-good hormones that make it possible for her to nurse her newborn. Continue reading

Wow, you did it! Your baby was just born. Wait! Please don't cut the cord. It hasn't finished pulsating yet. Your baby needs a few minutes to complete the birth process and receive all of its blood from the placenta. This process is super important. Watch today's video to discover the benefits of delayed cord clamping and why it's so critical and how delayed cord clamping can save lives.

 

Let me show you how much blood is retained in the placenta when we cut the cord immediately.

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Most times, growth spurts disguise themselves as an extra grumpy baby or one who suddenly takes lots of naps. You’ll just wonder what has gotten into them and the next thing you know, they’ve grown two sizes! Learn the signs of a growth spurt to identify it as it’s happening and save you (and your baby!) some frustration. Continue reading

I'd like to begin by congratulating and honoring you and the fact that you've given birth, and you have a sweet baby. I want to take the time to check in with you and process how your postpartum is going. This episode of Apothecary Wisdom is dedicated to postpartum moms who feel like they have the baby blues or postpartum depression. We will explore the immense life changes, the symptoms of PPD, and find helpful ways to improve your mood with food, placenta medicine, herbs, supplements, meditations, and radical self-care. Continue reading

Cannabis is the most popular and well-loved herb of our time! Especially now that it is becoming legal, it is being sold nearly everywhere. CBD, a compound of cannabis, is being marketed as a miracle that can solve nearly all your health problems. But what if you're breastfeeding? The question of the hour is, should you or shouldn't you take CBD Oil when you are breastfeeding? Today on Apothecary Wisdom, we are talking all about cannabis and CBD Oil while breastfeeding. Watch the full video if you want up to date information about the risks and benefits of CBD Oil during lactation. Continue reading

Let's talk about breastfeeding! I was planning on making a video about the 10 Best Breastfeeding Practices and How To Increase Your Milk Supply Quickly. While those will be great videos that will help lots of women, I decided to share something more personal with you. Today, I want to share my breastfeeding story of failure, self-shame, comparison, lack of confidence, and poor body image. Watch today's Episode of Apothecary Wisdom to hear my personal breastfeeding journey of failing and how that was the best thing that ever happened to me!   Continue reading

If you have sore, cracked nipples from breastfeeding, you know how bad nursing your baby can hurt! This might sound like an exaggeration to say it's one of the worst (physical) sensation a mom has to endure. You cringe every time baby latches, bracing for the sharp, radiating pain. You hold your breath as baby sleeps, knowing that her waking up means another painful nursing session. Even the most dedicated breastfeeding mom has had the fleeting thought that it's too hard. 

 

Today's post is about what is causing your nipple pain and how to treat it so you can keep breastfeeding like the rock star that you are!

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One of the most common fears associated with childbirth is having a vaginal tear. Let me start by powerfully and honestly reminding you that your body is fully capable of giving birth and recovering completely. Your pelvic floor and vagina are made to give birth. Even if the muscles of your pelvic floor stretch and tear, they are woven together like a basket.  They are meant to expand, stretch and bounce back to its previous size. Your brilliant body is great at opening up completely and closing right back again.  However, having realistic expectations and some basic supplies will help you have a smooth postpartum recovery even if you have a perineal tear.

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