Category:

Pregnancy

7 Exercises That Can Help You Come Delivery Day

by Karly Wood August 22, 2017

When I was pregnant, pretty much the only thing that scared me was delivery day. I knew it was just a part of being pregnant and that the reward far outweighed the pain I would go through, but who looks forward to PAIN? I didn’t. The thing about labor and delivery is that you never know how it’s going to go, despite careful planning and all the hopes in the world. But there’s definitely no harm in preparing for the outcome you want, whether that’s natural labor, an epidural or a C-section. If you’re hoping for a speedy labor and delivery, then this post is for you! There are plenty of exercises that you can do all throughout your pregnancy that will help prepare your body for labor, making the process go more quickly and smoothly. We’ve rounded up some great exercises for easy labor and delivery, that will hopefully make things go as smooth as possible.

exercises for easy labor and delivery

Source: Baby-Chick.com

1. Squats

Train your body to start opening your pelvis, while building muscles in your thighs by starting a routine of squats or practicing the “Garland Pose.” You can start this exercise early in your pregnancy and continue right up until labor!

Check out Baby-Chick.com for 5 more stretches and exercises to help open your hips and have a quick labor an delivery.

Source: Babble.com

2. Farmer Walk

Even though you’re pregnant, you can still perform core work during pregnancy. Having a strong core means more power behind your pushing during delivery, which hopefully means a quicker process! This Farmer Walk, which involves light weights that you hold out to your sides while walking, also helps develop stronger leg muscles which will come in handy during all that labor.

Head over to Babble.com for 6 more exercise ideas to help build strength for labor.

Source: YogaJournal.com

3. Pelvic Floor Sequence

Having a strong pelvic floor, but also working on lengthening it, is key to a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Your pelvic floor not only helps support your baby and other organs throughout your pregnancy, but come into play during labor as you are pushing. This Pelvic Floor Sequence from YogaJournal.com is a 10-step practice that not only strengthens and lengthens, but it will probably help relax you as well.

Source: StyleCraze.com

4. Downward Dog

It’s common to start feeling physically uncomfortable because of your growing belly starting in the second trimester, and that’s where yoga can really help to keep you feeling relaxed through stretching. Downward dog is an extremely useful stretch because it works to strengthen your arms and lower back, in addition to stretching out the backs of your legs. Once you start to get bigger, you’ll really notice how sore everything can be and this stretch will really help to loosen everything! Additionally, having a strong lower back will really come into play during labor and delivery.

StyleCraze.com has 14 more great exercises, from the first through third trimester, to help make your labor and delivery short and sweet!

exercises for easy labor and delivery

Source: MamaNatural.com

5. Pelvic Rocks

Keep both your lower back and pelvis loose by doing regular pelvic rocks (also known as the Cat Cow in yoga) throughout your pregnancy. It’s very easy to become tight in your back as your body starts to carry more weight, but it’s just as important to remain loose when labor and delivery time arrives.

Head over to MamaNatural.com for 6 more simple exercises to prepare you for labor.

Source: MichelleMarieFit.com

6. Butterflies

The butterfly is another great exercise to help open the hips, a vital step that needs to happen through labor and delivery. This is a low impact exercise that can be done all throughout your pregnancy and will hopefully help speed along your labor as your hips and pelvic floor will be used to the movement and stretching.

Check out MichelleMarieFit.com for 4 more exercises to prepare for labor!

exercises for easy labor and delivery

Source: FitPregnancy.com

7. Supported Triangle

Give your entire body a workout and develop strength by practicing a supported Triangle pose. This exercise is great for both emotional and physical stretching, and developing endurance that will come in handy during a long labor.

FitPregnancy.com has 4 more yoga poses that are perfect for prepping for labor, and are an authority on having a healthy pregnancy!

exercises for easy labor and delivery

Fitness Pregnancy

The Benefits of Prenatal Workouts

by Karly Wood August 21, 2017

written by Karly Wood

Maintaining the body’s overall health during pregnancy is certainly a top priority for any mother-to- be. Whether this means getting in plenty of walking, avoiding health hazards such as smoke and chemicals, or eating the right foods (outside of those cravings, of course), there are a number of activities and diets that can put you on the right track toward a healthy pregnancy. On the fitness side of things, consider looking into prenatal workouts that help to reduce the toll pregnancy can take on the body. From preventing back pain and knocking off pounds to improving sleep and reducing swelling, the benefits to be enjoyed from prenatal workouts can bring quite a bit of relief. We’ve gathered several of those workouts in the infographic below, along with even more health benefits expectant mothers can get out of prenatal exercise. As always, please be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning or changing your exercise program while pregnant.

We encourage all of our readers to head over to Pure Barre for even more ways to stay healthy and fit!

The Benefits of Prenatal Workouts

Pregnancy

These Mocktails Are The Perfect Way To Unwind After A Long Day

by Amanda Foust July 10, 2017

written by Amanda Foust

When I think of a hard day…there is one that sticks out among the others:

After waking up my kids one morning, I noticed a smell coming from the bathroom. I ran in and immediately stepped in puddles of water all over the floor. In front of me was a toilet overflowing with an entire role of shredded toilet paper. My daughter claims she was making punch.

While I was cleaning up mess number one…mess number two was in the works — it involved honey.

I came downstairs feeling accomplished that my bathroom was cleaner than it had ever been before. Then I looked at my couch and noticed it had a shine that I didn’t remember seeing before, so I walked up closer to touch the cushions. Yes, you guessed it, the couch was covered in honey.

While I was cleaning up the couch — which was much harder than the bathroom (honey is awful) — my kids moved onto mess number three.

This mess involved toothpaste. But not just any toothpaste…WHITENING toothpaste that strips the color from anything it touches — and it touched the carpets, beds, clothes, and more.

So after the third mess, and watching my “to-do” list grow and grow, I was looking forward to the end of the night when I could relax on the porch swing with a drink in hand! I would mindlessly scroll through Amazon looking for throw blankets and rugs to cover up the remainder of the stains in my home that I couldn’t successfully remove.

I’m not pregnant, but I’ve taken a liking to Ocean Spray® Mocktails in the evenings! These drinks taste so good and don’t leave you with a drowsy headache in the morning!

Lucky for us (pregnant or not) thanks to Ocean Spray®, we can transform any moment into a relaxing escape or social celebration with just 90 calories, and naturally sweetened Mocktails — the “Taste That Takes You Away!” And after a day like that, I needed to be taken away!

For those who are pregnant, one of the hardest adjustments (besides the fact you’re growing a human inside of you and you’re terribly uncomfortable) is the fact that you can’t treat yourself to a glass of wine or cocktail at the end of a day full of toilet paper, honey, and toothpaste.

Pregnant women need to relax or have some fun and Ocean Spray® has given us a delicious mocktail option!

Ocean Spray® Mocktails are a premium non-alcoholic juice drink inspired by your favorite cocktails. They’ve created a sophisticated line of beverages that are perfect to enjoy straight from the bottle or mixed with sparkling water. (Non-pregnant mamas can enjoy these mixed with wine or liquor as well). Ocean Spray® Mocktails are made with real fruit juice and no preservatives or high fructose corn syrup *win-win*

Another one of my favorite things about this beverage is the fact that they are only 90-calories per serving! Cheers to a no-guilt drink at the end of the night! When you’re putting on baby weight, the last thing you want to do is drink your extra calories. You would much rather chow down on your favorite meal or indulge your sweet tooth if you’re going to consume extra calories! Just pair that special meal with a mocktail!

Ocean Spray® Mocktails are vibrant, delicious drinks that are appropriate for the special occasion or the everyday drink of choice. Sip on a mocktail while soaking up encouragement from other mamas or to celebrate a night out with friends! Trust me, you can always find an excuse for an enjoyable beverage. For me personally, this means sitting on my porch in this muggy and hot summer and enjoying as many cold beverages as possible. You can bet Mocktails are put of the lineup!

Here are the three great flavors:

Tropical Citrus Paradise | Cranberry Peach Bellini | Cranberry Sangria |

**This post was sponsored by Ocean Spray®**

mocktails

Pregnancy

10 Gift Ideas For New Moms That Are Just For Them

by Amanda Foust July 7, 2017

written by Amanda Foust

(This post contains affiliate links.)

Moms love spoiling their children — even before they arrive! But who is going to spoil the mama during her days of sleepless nights and her long, after-delivery recovery? Well, it’s up to us to celebrate the mom-to-be’s the way we would want to be celebrated!

My sister-in-law is due any day with my niece, so I have been on a quest for “new mom essentials” just for her! Here are some ideas for gifts that are just for the moms:

gift ideas for new moms

Source: Amazon.com

1. Baby Nursing Bracelet for Hands-free Breastfeeding or Pumping

Hands-free nursing is a must! This nursing bracelet may not look like much but it attaches to your shirt and allows you to pin your shirt up while nursing or pumping. It’s frustrating to have to hold up your shirt when you could be using your hands to read, scroll through social media, or adjust your nursing position. The baby nursing bracelet easily slides over the shirt to hold everything in place and prevent stains during pumping. You can also wear it on your wrist to remind yourself which breast should be used during the next nursing session.

gift ideas for new moms

Source: Amazon.com

2. Maternity Robe

I’m a huge advocate for a new mom to feel cozy and beautiful! For my sister’s delivery, I bought her a robe that she basically lived in for the first few weeks because it was really pretty and something her post-baby body felt good wearing! New moms spend a lot of time lounging around (not in a relaxing sort of way, but more due to survival)! A beautiful robe makes nursing easy and gives moms a great go-to outfit to wear after pre-baby and maternity clothes no longer fit.

gift ideas for new moms

Source: Amazon.com

3. Socks with Treads

In the hospital, pregnant moms are given hospital socks for delivery. These are typically ugly shades of green or yellow, and some can feel scratchy on your skin. Give practical socks that also feel soft against the skin. There is no binding on the tops, so these socks will conform perfectly to any mom’s legs. I guarantee she will love the feel of feathered yarn on her skin. Labor is such an uncomfortable process, so give her something she can feel good wearing through the process!

Pregnancy

To The Woman Who Doesn’t Like Being Pregnant

by Amanda Foust June 26, 2017

written by Amanda Foust

Admitting that you don’t like being pregnant — especially while surrounded by women who would LOVE to be — is taboo. So we keep our feelings to ourselves. But this is a letter to the woman who feels guilty about not enjoying pregnancy, but still needs and wants to be heard.

To the woman who doesn’t like being pregnant,

I see you. I was you. You’re the woman who may have waited a long time to get pregnant, so the idea of complaining seems like the most selfish thing you could do. You are the woman who is waiting for the pregnancy glow — which for me ended up being a permanent layer of sweat on my forehead. And you often look enviously at the pregnant women posting pictures of themselves at the gym #fitpregnancy #healthypregnancy blah blah blah. Before getting pregnant, you foresaw treating yourself to green smoothies and an abundance of superfoods, but then the pregnancy cravings began and kicked your butt with their salty and sugary attacks.

You can’t get more than an hour or two of sleep at night without feeling uncomfortable and needing to toss and turn to find any ounce of relief. You had planned to put on the classical music and read to your swollen baby belly, but instead, you have to nurse your swollen ankles.

The miracle growing inside of you is romanticized so much so that anything negative you might feel is met with extreme guilt. But stop it! The way you feel has nothing to do with the baby. You fiercely love that life inside of you! It’s okay to love the result but be miserable along the journey!

To be completely honest, I didn’t like sharing my body. I’m not naturally into physical touch or affection, and being pregnant takes physical touch to a whole new level! There was no getting away from it! Obviously, I would do anything for my baby — so enduring a miserable 9 months was well worth it, but I’m sick of having to make up excuses for why I have chosen not to do it again.

I didn’t like being pregnant. If it happens again, it happens. But it’s definitely not something I’m going to choose for myself if I can help it! If you feel that way, I’m here to tell you that it’s okay! I am sure you love celebrating your preggo friends’ journeys, but don’t wear a mask that tells them how amazing pregnancy is. Don’t encourage the romanticism of pregnancy in case your friend wants permission to feel the same way you did about being pregnant — over it. But if she is one who loves the experience, celebrate with her! Agree to disagree — but be real!

When I finally admitted to a few people how I really felt about pregnancy, the response was a sigh of relief: “I FEEL THE SAME WAY!”

No guilt. No facade. Remind yourself that the way you feel is not a reflection of how you will be as a mother.

And remember…it’s only 9 months!

Sincerely,

A woman who understands.

Tell us in the comments how you felt about pregnancy!

doesn't like being pregnant

Pregnancy

4 Ways To Let Go Of Your Body Issues And Enjoy Pregnancy

by Amanda Foust June 19, 2017

written by Amanda Foust

Pregnancy is supposed to be a “glowing” experience. We are to enjoy each moment and the “special treatment” we receive for those nine months of bliss. But instead, we are faced with acne, stretch marks, weight gain, and swollen ankles. When I was last pregnant, I have to admit that I did not enjoy most moments. I was sick, tired, and wrangling a toddler who never needed or wanted sleep. Looking back on that time, I wish I had put my insecurities and miserable, grumpy days aside and enjoyed pregnancy.

enjoy pregnancy

Here’s what I would have done differently:

1. Took off work earlier.

Work is important, and I always felt like I had something to prove. I was offered by my boss to take off early, but I insisted on working until the day I went into labor. I taught preschool, so I would waddle in to teach, barely be able to stand up after sitting at circle time, and then waddle back to the car to head home at the end of a long day. I was insecure thinking everyone would think I was “weak” if I took off work early. But now I know I would have benefited from a few days (or weeks) of down time before life would drastically change!

Before all your attention is on baby, do something for yourself! Take a few weeks off and enjoy the anticipation that comes with dreaming about your little one’s arrival.

2. Spent time affirming my pregnant body.

Seeing myself in the mirror before I got dressed and after a shower was always mortifying. I felt like a swollen whale, so I would quickly undress, hop in the steaming water, and avoid looking in the mirror at all costs! But I wonder how different I would feel if I would have stood proudly facing the body that was carrying my son — the body that was strong, resilient, and giving life to a piece of my heart!

Spend time affirming yourself. You are beautiful. You are a warrior. Your body’s curves are amazing and spectacular in all the right ways! Every mark and scar or ache and pain is a reflection of your strength and resilience for the life inside of you. No one could love or provide for your baby better than your powerful body!

3. Set more boundaries to decrease stress levels.

You guys, I pushed myself — hard. I juggled all my responsibilities and then some more.

Maybe you’re doing the same thing! Maybe boundaries are hard for you and you are trying to balance everything on your plate while adding all the pre-baby prep to your to-do list. Stress isn’t good for anyone, let alone someone growing a life! So set boundaries for yourself and say “no” to the things that suck you dry. Remember, you have a good excuse!

4. Stop feeling guilty.

Finally, you can wish things would have gone better or wished you would willingly embrace your pregnancy, but don’t waste time sitting in guilt. Though I would make these changes, I can’t go back and redo my pregnancy. So now, I can simply encourage those going through it to set aside their insecurities and learn from my mistakes. If you are feeling guilty — stop. Choose better for yourself and enjoy this special time in your life!

Tell us in the comments what pregnancy insecurities YOU need to let go!

enjoy pregnancy

Pregnancy

6 Thoughts During Labor That May Surprise You

by Ellice Vargas May 30, 2017

written by Ellice Vargas

When you are expecting a baby, labor with inevitably come at some point. You never know how you will feel during your labor until it happens, even if it’s not your first time. Each experience is so different and unique. However, you are sure to have some expectations. We all know it’s going to hurt, but at what level will vary greatly. There are also going to be quite a few “surprises along the way. Here are 6 thoughts that might just surprise you while you are in labor.

thoughts during labor

1. I’m Not Ready

You may think that after 9 long months of aches and pains you will be ready to get the show on the road (not to mention you get to meet your very own little person very soon!). However, some women are surprised to say they are actually not ready when labor starts. It doesn’t matter that you’ve picked out a name, or washed endless tiny clothes or packed your hospital bag- your whole life is about to turn upside down and sometimes you may feel like you need a bit more time before that sweet bundle arrives.

2. Throw Out The Birth Plan

Did you think you would go all natural and just rely on your breathing methods to get you through, but then you found yourself asking for that epidural as soon as possible? Or maybe you were going with a plan to get all the drugs but soon realized you could manage without it. You may be surprised by how easily you will throw that birth plan out of the window when things get going.

3. Just Feed Me

I’m shocked more nurses and doctors are not injured when they tell a women in labor that they can’t eat a meal. I mean, aren’t they getting ready to push a baby out of their lady parts? I understand that this is protocol but seriously, eat before you get to the hospital if you can.

4. Get Out Of My Business

Even though it comes with the territory you may find yourself getting fed up with so many people up in your business, especially if it ends up being a long labor. Don’t worry this is totally normal and a lot of women don’t want to see any one else up their who-ha again any time soon.

5. Don’t Touch Me

I was super shocked to find that I didn’t want anyone except my mom to touch me during my labor. My poor sweet husband was so supportive, but I could hardly stand it when it tried to rub my back or hold my hand. If you think this might be you, it’s ok to give your husbands fair warning.

6. I’m Freaking Awesome

This may not come until the very last part when the end is in sight, but at some point you are going to feel like the strong, kick-ass women that you are. It makes it all worth it in the end.

thoughts during labor

Pregnancy

5 Tips For Making Your Summer Pregnancy Less Brutal

by Jordyn Smith May 22, 2017

written by Jordyn Smith

As beautiful and amazing as it is to bring a new life into the world, the process of getting there isn’t always a pretty one. Every pregnancy comes with its own set of issues and annoyances, and these issues can be exacerbated by tons of things, especially the weather. Things are already heating up and for all the pregnant mamas out there, getting through the summer season while pregnant isn’t always easy. Hopefully, these tips make things a little better.

Summer Pregnancy

1. Spend A Lot Of Time By The Pool

If you are lucky enough to have a pool in your home or neighborhood or have a nice public pool nearby, you should take advantage of that as much as possible. Not only is swimming and lounging in the sun super relaxing but it is always a great way to keep cool while outside during a time of the year when that is next to impossible.

2. Wear Loose, Light Clothes

During pregnancy, the clothes you wear contribute greatly to your comfort. When pregnant in the summer, you should focus on clothing items that are going to keep you both comfortable and cool. Loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing is great for this. Never count out the greatness of a simple white cotton t-shirt or a flowy floral dress.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for everyone during the summer but especially for expecting mamas. Dehydration is a common affliction during the summer months, one that can lead to serious issues. Try to keep a filled water bottle with you at all times. Cut down on the amount of sodas and sugary drinks you consume. If you want something sweet try infusing some fresh fruit in your water at home.

4. Hang Out In Cool Places

When you’re experiencing a summer pregnancy, movie theaters, malls, museums, and any other place with a heavy-duty air conditioner is your best friend. Don’t force yourself into uncomfortably warm places if you aren’t feeling it. Your main priority should be staying cooled down and comfortable and these places allow you to do this.

5. Take Plenty of Naps

Being active during your pregnancy is always a good idea, it ensures that you and your baby stay happy and healthy but rest is just as important. It is perfectly normal for pregnant women to be a little sleepier while pregnant, and this tiredness can be increased when you are exposed to summer heat. Taking naps will keep you nice and relaxed and help boost your energy throughout the day.

Summer Pregnancy

Beauty & Style Pregnancy

6 Cute Maternity Tees To Dress Your Bump In For Summer

by Leena Kollar May 22, 2017

written by Leena Kollar

One of the worst things about pregnancy is trying to dress your changing body. It’s bad enough that all your body parts completely change, grow or shrink. Then you’ve got to find clothes that fit you for the next several months (and only for the next several months). Being pregnant during the summer is especially uncomfortable if you live somewhere that gets hot in the summer months. But don’t worry, these cute maternity tees will help make your pregnancy and your summer much more bearable!

maternity tees source: Motherhood Maternity

1. Don’t Eat Watermelon Seeds Maternity Tank

Since watermelon is a popular summer fruit, this adorable tank is seasonally in style. Plus, it’s super cute and you will feel like you’re growing a watermelon in your belly at some point!

Get this tank from Motherhood Maternity.

maternity tees source: Etsy

2. In Like a Banana, Out Like A Pineapple

Make of this tee what you will, but I think it’s hilarious! One of the best ways to survive pregnancy is with laughter, and wearing this shirt will definitely make you and those around you laugh.

Head over to Etsy to purchase this tee.

maternity tees source: BumpLife

3. Stork Delivery Maternity Tee

Aww, this shirt is so precious! The idea of a stork bringing a woman her baby goes back a long way, and this modern version is super fun.

Find this shirt at BumpLife.

maternity tees source: Macy’s

4. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Graphic T-Shirt

I love this maternity shirt for couples who aren’t planning to find out their baby’s gender. But even if you do choose to find out, you’ll still have to wonder what you little star will be like.

Visit Macy’s to get this shirt.

maternity tees source: Crazy Dog Shirts

5. This Is My Last One…Seriously Maternity Shirt

Haha! Addicted to baby making, are we? With this shirt, you can tell the world how proud you are of your growing brood, and do it with a bit of humor.

You can get this shirt from Crazy Dog Shirts.

maternity tees source: Macy’s

6. All I Need Are Snacks And Naps Graphic Maternity T-Shirt

Yep. This shirt sums up pregnancy perfectly. Although, I haven’t been pregnant in over two years, and I still agree with the message…

Snatch up this tee from Macy’s.

maternity tees

Family Pregnancy

6 Benefits Of Having Children Close In Age

by Leena Kollar May 8, 2017

written by Leena Kollar

My children are two years apart. I always knew I wanted to have my kids close together, but I didn’t realize just how glad I was to have it that way until I started to see the benefits. If you’re considering adding to your brood and you aren’t sure whether to start now or later, here are a few reasons why sometimes it’s nice not to wait to continue growing your family.

children

1. Strong Sibling Bond

My two kids get along most of the time. In fact, my daughter, who is 2, loves copying everything her 4 year-old brother does. Even though they bicker and fight and sometimes don’t get along (isn’t that the case with all siblings?), most of the time they are each other’s best friend. It’s so precious! Watching them hug each other and chase each other and play together melts my heart. I grew up with two siblings and we’re still close today. Having a strong sibling bond is definitely something that will benefit your children for their entire lives.

children

2. Money Matters

After having my first child, I learned what to expect in the way of finances. I could estimate how much our monthly expenses would be for all things child related. So by the time my second child came along, I was already prepared. I didn’t have to re-budget or figure out a new financial plan. Having children close in age allows you to continue down the same financial path because you don’t have to make any major changes.

children

3. Mama Routine

Since my daughter was born just two years after my son, I was still in my parenting “groove.” I had a bit of experience under my belt, even though I was still a new mom. I could learn as I went, but also apply what I had already learned to my second child. It’s like I didn’t have to slow down and re-learn everything because I had another child to practice on.

children

4. Double Duty

My kids take baths together, which is a real time saver. They also eat meals together and enjoy many of the same toys. Since they are close in age, I can double up on many things. Sure, my kids wear different size clothes and have their own interests and needs, but I can tackle lots of things easier because I can tackle them with both kids at the same time.

children

5. No Pressure For Weight Loss

I was very fortunate to have lost my pregnancy weight quickly after each child was born. But since I knew I wanted to have my second child relatively soon after the first one, there was no pressure to lose all the baby weight right away. What’s the point, if you’re just going to gain it back? When you have your children close in age, you can take your time getting your body back because it’s going to change again soon anyway.

children

6. No Starting Over

If I had waited longer to have my second child, it would have been like starting over in many ways. Getting used to the sleepless nights again, having to buy diapers all the time, rearranging finances, etc. But since my kids are close in age, I didn’t have to train myself with anything again. I didn’t have to adjust my life to having a new baby because it had been adjusted just a couple years before.

So what do you think? Did you have your children close in age? Tell us in the comments below!

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