Finding Balance in Parenthood: Embracing the Highs and Lows
Having a little one is seriously such a blessing, and I’m beyond grateful for him every single day. But let’s be real—parenthood is an emotional rollercoaster. Some days, everything clicks, and it’s all sunshine and rainbows. Other days, it feels like you’re stuck in the middle of a storm with no umbrella. And then there are those days when it’s both amazing and rough at the same time.

It's okay to admit that sometimes having time alone is all you want. That doesn’t mean you don’t love your child. It means you’re human, and you're dealing with a whole new level of responsibility. Parenting can be exhausting, exhilarating, overwhelming, and joyful—all at once.

If you’ve been finding it hard to navigate these big feelings, you’re not alone. It’s not always easy to dive into these emotions when you’re just trying to get through the day. But it’s important to find ways to embrace them without losing it. Here are three strategies that I’ve found helpful:

Whether it’s a stroll through a park, a hike in the woods, or a walk along the beach, being outside can do wonders for your mood. The fresh air, the sounds of birds, the rustling of leaves—all of it can help you reset. I often pair this with a walk or a run, because getting your body moving is another great way to boost those feel-good vibes.

Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and transport us to different places and times. If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, put on your favorite song and let it work its magic. Blast it in your living room and have a dance party. Your little one will love it, and so will you. The energy from the music can lift your spirits and give you that extra push to get through the day.

Food is more than just fuel—it’s a way to nourish both your body and soul. When you’re busy with a baby, it’s easy to grab whatever’s convenient, but taking the time to make a meal or a snack that you actually enjoy can be a game-changer. Choose something that tastes good and makes you feel good. Maybe it’s a healthy salad with all your favorite toppings or a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. Whatever it is, savor each bite and let yourself enjoy the moment.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Share your struggles and victories with other parents, and lean on your support system. And when things get tough, know that it’s okay to take a step back, breathe, and try one of these strategies. Parenthood is a wild ride, but with a little patience and a lot of love, you’ve got this.

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Meet Leah Negrin

 
I am a bold, beautiful, sometimes timid, usually happy, essential oil, nutrition junkie. Although at 39 I feel as if I've had several careers over a lifetime (or at least sometimes when I look back at my resume that is what shines through). I've been a paralegal, an office manager, an administrative assistant, worked in commercial lending and have finally landed on nutrition.

My journey to nutrition started many years ago when my sister was diagnosed with celiac disease and food had to change for the family. From there, along my own health journey I’ve helped people not only figure out what to eat but how to do it so that it can work for them sustainably. For almost seven years I’ve been counseling people on their nutrition and weight loss journeys. 

Finally getting some sunshine in Southern California *Photo credit  Brittany Hassett 

I am knowledgeable about what purpose food serves your body and I focus on finding sustainable options when it comes to food; this also led to my love of essential oils. I had the opportunity to attend a workshop where a registered dietitian spoke about using essential oils in her practice to help her patients. I was floored. I knew that #plantsheal but I didn't realize that others in the 'conventional' medical community thought that as well!! Learning that it was possible to incorporate these magical little bottles gave me a huge sense of hope.


Alina, myself and Caitlin (oily bffs) *Photo credit Anne Negrin

 
As I learned more about these oils I was diagnosed with increased intestinal permeability or as many of us know it, leaky gut. Leaky gut has been around for quite awhile but many of us are just learning what this is or why this is even more common these days than ever before. Many issues can be related to leaky gut including autoimmune diseases. Receiving this diagnosis just led me down a path further to learn about nutrition and how to best serve my body and take care of myself.


Enjoying a vegan ice cream cone in Budapest! *Photo credit to Michelle Owen 

Since birthing our sweet baby boy at home earlier this year I’ve been incredibly passionate about helping other women too who are pregnant and new mothers with their nutrition. Eating healthy for your pregnant body and your postpartum self is a game changer for both mother and baby.

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