Sleep, something we know is oh so important, but in today's world it seems to be more elusive than ever! The demand of everyday life and adulting seems to be continually growing. But, do you know how important sleep actually is?!
✨Sleep is a time when the body can focus on repairing and rejuvenating itself
✨Sleep is vital for cognitive function (helps the brain process and organize information gathered when you're awake)
✨Adequate sleep is crucial for emotional stability and mental health
✨Lack of sleep is associated with a range of physical health problems
✨Sleep is important for a strong and resilient immune system
AND SO MUCH MORE!
It is important to recognize that the quantity and quality of sleep needed can vary among individuals and across different stages of life. Like right now, I’m in the trenches of having a little guy who needs to eat overnight, so I have to adjust as needed! I try to grab a nap during the day if I can or ask for help if I’m feeling rundown.
While adults typically require 7-9 hours of sleep per night, infants, children, teenagers, and older adults may need different amounts.
Chronic sleep deprivation, which occurs when an individual consistently gets less sleep than their body needs, can have detrimental effects on health and well-being. That’s why it’s so important to prioritize sleep! I know we can get caught up in binge watching a tv show or reading one more chapter of a book, but sleep plays a HUGE role in our overall health.
Establishing healthy sleep habits and prioritizing sleep as an essential part of one's daily routine can lead to improved physical and mental health, increased productivity, and a better overall quality of life.
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There are times when I really love to make my own personal care products and other times when it’s just too much 😜 although when you’re shopping in a store it’s almost impossible to find things that don’t have something toxic in them hence why I either make my own or buy from Young Living.
‼️So let’s avoid the fragrance and chemical filled products in stores this season and whip up your own Christmas body butter! (Clearly I’ve been on a diy kick lately)
It smells just as amazing and is better for your health! 🫶
‼️So let’s avoid the fragrance and chemical filled products in stores this season and whip up your own Christmas body butter! (Clearly I’ve been on a diy kick lately)
It smells just as amazing and is better for your health! 🫶
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shea butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup sweet almond oil
- 10-20 drops of peppermint essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients, except the essential oils, in a small pot or double boiler.
- Gently melt and stir over medium-low heat until the mixture is liquid.
- Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to partially set up.
- Once the mixture is partially set and opaque, add the essential oils of your choice, and whip with a mixer until the body butter is fluffy and stiff peaks have formed.
Disclaimer: I only use YL for oils, especially when I’m putting these oils on my skin as many other ones literally say on the bottle that they’re unsafe for topical (skin) use
Want to know the secret to supporting your skin during pregnancy?
Stretch marks can be genetic and may happen even if you do "all the right things." There's nothing wrong with them! *someone once called them Tiger Stripes to me, which I loved! I applied this cream every single night after my dry brushing and my shower.
HOWEVER, your belly can get REALLY ITCHY as it's stretching and growing to support your baby and this belly balm is amazing for soothing that itch. (if you're experiencing intense itching, but without a rash, usually on the hands and feet this can be intrahepatic cholestasis which is reduced or stopped bile flow that builds up in the liver, so make sure to check with your healthcare provider if any of this is going on for you!)
So you can whip this up and apply as needed!🌸
Stretch marks can be genetic and may happen even if you do "all the right things." There's nothing wrong with them! *someone once called them Tiger Stripes to me, which I loved! I applied this cream every single night after my dry brushing and my shower.
HOWEVER, your belly can get REALLY ITCHY as it's stretching and growing to support your baby and this belly balm is amazing for soothing that itch. (if you're experiencing intense itching, but without a rash, usually on the hands and feet this can be intrahepatic cholestasis which is reduced or stopped bile flow that builds up in the liver, so make sure to check with your healthcare provider if any of this is going on for you!)
So you can whip this up and apply as needed!🌸
Belly Balm:
- Melt 1 1/2 cup coconut oil (hard) with 1/2 cup plain shea butter.
- Let it cool slightly
- Add 10 drops of lavender, frankincense and cypress
- Rub on pregnant and postpartum belly as needed
Oils Benefits:
- Lavender
- packed with antioxidants to support your skin
- Frankincense
- promotes the appearance of healthy-looking skin and reduces the appearance of uneven skin tones
- Cypress
- strengthens the structure of the skin tissue and firms skin by stimulating muscle tissue
Breastfeeding and caffeine consumption are topics of interest for many nursing mothers. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Transfer of Caffeine to Breast Milk: Caffeine is a stimulant that can pass from a mother's bloodstream into her breast milk, although the amount that reaches the milk is usually relatively low. The concentration of caffeine in breast milk is typically about 1% of the mother's caffeine intake.
2. Timing Matters: The timing of caffeine consumption can affect the levels of caffeine in breast milk. Caffeine levels in breast milk are highest about 1-2 hours after consumption. To minimize the amount of caffeine in breast milk, it's advisable to wait at least 2-3 hours after having a standard-sized cup of coffee (containing about 100-200 mg of caffeine) before breastfeeding.
3. Infant Sensitivity: Some infants may be more sensitive to caffeine than others. Premature infants and newborns may have a harder time metabolizing caffeine, potentially leading to irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. Older infants may be less sensitive.
4. Monitor Your Baby: Pay attention to your baby's behavior and sleep patterns if you consume caffeine. If you notice that caffeine seems to affect your baby, consider adjusting your caffeine intake or timing.
5. Moderate Consumption: Most experts agree that moderate caffeine consumption by a breastfeeding mother is generally safe. This typically means consuming no more than 200-300 milligrams (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee) per day. Keep in mind that caffeine is found not only in coffee but also in tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and some medications.
6. Stay Hydrated: If you consume caffeinated beverages, remember that caffeine can have a mild diuretic effect, potentially leading to increased urination. Make sure to stay well-hydrated to compensate for any fluid loss.
7. Individual Variability: Each breastfeeding mother and baby is unique. Some babies may be more sensitive to caffeine than others, and some mothers may metabolize caffeine more slowly or quickly. It's important to be attentive to your specific situation and adjust your caffeine consumption accordingly.
8. Caffeine Alternatives: If you're concerned about caffeine's effects on your baby, you can explore caffeine-free alternatives such as herbal teas or decaffeinated coffee.
In summary, moderate caffeine consumption by a breastfeeding mother is generally considered safe for most infants. However, the timing of caffeine consumption and individual variations can influence how it affects the baby. If you have concerns or notice any adverse effects on your baby, consult with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for personalized guidance on managing caffeine intake while breastfeeding.
One thing that has changed since becoming a mom is that my brain never stops anymore. Not to be dramatic, but it can get overwhelming sometimes! Whether I’m trying to relax or sleep at night, I always have a million different thoughts running through my mind.
Sometimes you really want to sleep and yet somehow you just can't shut your mind off. It doesn't always happen when you've just had a baby, but that is definitely a time it has happened for me. I'll be laying there knowing I just need to close my eyes, but then alllllllll the things just keep popping into my mind. Did I eat that yogurt that was going to expire tomorrow? How much water did I drink today? Is my computer unplugged or plugged in? It’s always the most random thoughts!
Before giving birth if I woke up with all of the things going on in my mind I'd just throw some peace and calming essential oil on and my sleep stories from the Calm app and be good to go! But with a little one, that doesn't exactly work (think can't move your body when they're sleeping!) so it's up to my mind to slow down and get back to sleep. Sometimes I try to just focus on one simple thing to quiet my mind.
This is still a great resource to use during the day though when I’m not trying to sleep! I love to apply an oil to help calm my mind like peace and calming or lavender when I need to quiet my mind and breathe. If I have a sleeping baby on me, I can use my app quietly or try to just close my eyes and focus on being still. It can definitely be hard some days, but it’s important to find something that works best for you!
