In this episode, I have the chance to catch up the very busy and incredibly fun Tara Stiles! When I interviewed Tara, she was about 27 weeks pregnant. She openly talks about adjusting her yoga practice through pregnancy, food cravings and the needing to let go and accept her new changing body. She also explains […]
Tara Stiles, Founder of Strala Yoga Read More »
It’s time for a book club! We’re revisiting a post from 2010, but this time I want to delve back into these books with the PYC community. We’ll be reading one book a month, starting with Ina May’s Guide To Childbirth. At the end of the month I will post some questions on the blog and we
Deb’s Book Club and Book List! Read More »
In the past few years I have come to appreciate all the uses and benefits of magnesium sulfate, aka Epsom salt. First off, I must stress, Epsom salts are sometimes recommended as a laxative; this purpose is NOT appropriate for pregnancy. With that usage off the table, let’s check out all the ways a pregnant
Tuesday Tip: Epsom Salt Read More »
What makes some births faster than others? Often, it is the baby’s position in the pelvis. Optimal position is when the baby is head down, with its chin in line with the birth canal, evenly tucked into its chest, and its spine is in an anterior position- towards the pregnant person’s belly (vertex position). Most
Better Birth; Eliminating Intrauterine Constraint Read More »
Who and how you choose your care provider will greatly effect the outcome of your birth. Many women choose to stay with the OB/GYN they have used for years for gynecological purposes, and do not seek out another provider. Other women may ask a friend or relative for suggestions if they are not completely comfortable
Mommybites: Are You With the Right Doctor? Read More »
Once you turn the corner into your third trimester, you may notice the pregnancy “honeymoon” is over. Your baby’s growth is accelerating and you may be experiencing a whole new batch of aches and pains. Yoga within the third trimester focuses on preparing the body for labor and delivery, and encouraging the baby the move
Yoga in the 3rd trimester Read More »
Lately, I’ve been struggling with some of the stories I hear regarding appropriate vs. inappropriate behavior from labor support doulas. While I am not currently taking on any births, I was an active doula for almost 10 years and have tremendous respect and admiration for how a trained labor support doula can support a laboring
Doula Do’s and Don’ts Read More »
My first labor with my son, Shay, was an epic 42 hrs. That is 42 hrs from first recognizing there was a pattern to the contractions to my baby being born. I was completely taken back and slightly traumatized both physically and mentally by the experience. Upon finding out I was pregnant again with our
The average pregnant woman is very capable of a doing a challenging asana practice that can build confidence and stamina. However, it is important to strike a balance by also practicing gentler, more restful poses that teach her how to soften and surrender when she needs to relax. Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of
Relax into the Restorative Pose! Read More »
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who sent their well wishes after the announcement of my pregnancy. I truly feel blessed to be part of this loving community. As I approach week 15, I am noticing some interesting changes to my body. Besides the fact that my breasts have gotten out of
