Candy, Author at Nourishing Birth & Beyond

Best Of: Orlagh’s Tongue Tie Journey

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I talk with Katie, a mother who shares her experience with her daughter Orlagh’s severe tongue tie, which went undiagnosed for a long time. Despite initial misdiagnoses and ineffective treatments, Katie persevered, eventually finding effective help through holistic practitioners who focused on proper tongue movement and exercises. The conversation highlights the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of tongue ties, the impact on a child’s development, and the challenges faced by parents seeking adequate medical support. Katie’s story underscores the need for awareness and proper training among healthcare professionals to prevent similar situations.

Episode 50: Delaney’s Birth Story

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I welcome Delaney, who shares her personal birth story, focusing on her experience of delivering at 43 weeks and five days. Delaney discusses the societal and medical pressures she faced to induce labor, her decision to wait for natural labour, and the emotional and physical challenges she encountered. The conversation highlights the importance of informed decision-making, autonomy, and the support of resources like Facebook groups and literature to empower expectant parents. Delaney’s story underscores the need for compassionate care and the right to choose one’s birth experience.

Episode 49: What is a postpartum doula anyway?

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I chat with Alice, a postnatal doula, highlighting the essential support doulas provide to new parents during the postpartum period. Alice shares her experiences and insights into how doulas help bridge the gap left by the absence of traditional community support. We discuss the importance of preparing for postpartum, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care and mental health. The conversation also touches on societal expectations, the lack of adequate postpartum support, and the benefits of investing in personalised care over material goods.

Sharing Molly’s Breastfeeding Journey

I never thought I’d still be breastfeeding past my child’s first birthday. Why? Everyone told me how hard it would

Episode 48: Potty Training with Amy, Part 2

In this podcast episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond I chat with Amy about her journey of potty training her 21-month-old child, highlighting the methods from the Oh Crap Potty Training book. Amy describes initial challenges, the importance of consistency, and the surprising success of her child being dry at night. She emphasises the value of having a supportive partner and suggests that early potty training should be discussed more openly. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of motivation and the ongoing nature of the learning process.

Episode 47: Tongue Tie Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Episode 46: Where to Give Birth

If you’re currently pregnant, you might be wondering where to give birth.

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I explore the topic of home birth, highlighting its safety and the personalised, empowering experience it provides compared to hospital births. I am sure to address common misconceptions, the importance of feeling safe and relaxed during birth, and the role of birth hormones in facilitating a natural birth. This episode will encourage you to consider home birth as a viable option, supported by midwives, and to explore the nuances of your own birth preferences and needs.

Episode 45: Anna’s Birth Story

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I speak with Anna as she recounts her journey from an uneventful pregnancy to a challenging labour that culminated in an unplanned C-section. Despite initial reluctance towards having children and concerns about endometriosis, Anna’s pregnancy progressed smoothly. Her labour, however, was prolonged and complicated by the baby’s position and a full bladder, leading to a hospital transfer, other complications and eventual C-section. Anna emphasises the importance of postpartum bonding, sharing how skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding helped forge a strong connection with her daughter. She reflects on the unexpected nature of birth experiences and the value of postpartum support, offering insights into navigating unforeseen challenges.

Episode 44: Potty Training Prep with Amy

In this podcast episode of Nourishing Birth and Beyond I’m joined by Amy to talk about potty training. We dive into the various methods such as the three-day method and the Oh Crap approach. We discuss the challenges and pressures parents face, the importance of recognising individual readiness in children, and the impact of external opinions and guilt. We really want to emphasise the need for flexibility, patience, and adapting to each child’s unique journey, while sharing our own personal anecdotes and practical tips for navigating this developmental milestone.

Episode 43: You Can’t Fail At Birth But You Can Under Prepare

In the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I discuss the critical role of preparation in childbirth, stressing that while birth outcomes cannot be controlled, understanding the process and the maternity system can empower parents. I highlight that hypnobirthing is a valuable tool for learning about the body’s natural abilities and supporting childbirth, but it should be complemented by a broader understanding of the maternity system to advocate effectively for oneself. I also encourage you to explore diverse information sources, such as birth stories and consent, to make informed decisions and ensure your birth experience aligns with personal needs and preferences. The episode aims to empower expectant parents to have a positive and memorable birth experience on your terms.

Episode 42: Randa’s Birth Story

In this podcast episode of Nourishing Birth and Beyond, I chat with Randa and she shares her home birth experience with her month-old baby, Layla. Randa discusses the pressures of societal norms around due dates and medical interventions, emphasising the importance of trusting one’s body and making informed decisions. She highlights the supportive role of her midwife, the significance of a personalised birthing plan, and the empowering nature of a home birth. The episode underscores the value of individualised care and the need for women to feel confident and supported during childbirth.

Episode 41: Birth Prep: 3 Mistakes You’re Making (and Don’t Know It)

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I address three common mistakes in birth preparation: relying solely on a birth plan, fearing pain management, and not proactively learning about caesarean sections. I emphasise the need for a solid understanding of birth processes, the role of hormones in pain management, and the importance of being informed about medical interventions. I also highlight the significance of creating a supportive birth environment and encourage listeners to take an active role in their birth journey. Additionally, I invite listeners to a free workshop on water birth essentials to further empower them in making informed decisions about their birthing experience.

Episode 40: Breastfeeding Expectations, Boundaries and Manners

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, speak with Amy to explore the complexities of breastfeeding, including societal expectations, personal experiences, and the challenges faced by parents. We discuss the importance of understanding individual needs and preferences, the role of breastfeeding in child development, and the societal pressures that can influence parenting decisions. The conversation also touches on the broader context of parenting, including setting boundaries, the importance of support systems, and the need for flexible approaches to child-rearing.

Episode 39: Part 2 with Courtney: Preparing for birth & postpartum at 38 weeks

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I welcome back Courtney, who shares her journey from 27 to nearly 39 weeks of pregnancy. The conversation covers the emotional and practical preparations for childbirth and early parenting, including the importance of open communication with her partner, managing household responsibilities, and preparing for the baby’s arrival. Courtney discusses the challenges and strategies of colostrum harvesting, the significance of maintaining a support network, and the emotional aspects of becoming a parent, especially with family far away. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning, flexibility, and communication to navigate the transition to parenthood.

Episode 38: No Amount Of Hoping Will Set You Up For A Positive Birth

In the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I provide a supportive and inclusive space for expectant and new parents to feel empowered and informed about their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. The podcast emphasises the importance of learning about the natural birth process to feel confident and in control, as opposed to relying on potentially misleading or dramatised cultural narratives. I invite listeners to a free water birth webinar, which delves into the benefits and considerations of water birth, regardless of whether listeners are certain about their birth preferences. The podcast encourages proactive preparation and understanding to foster trust in one’s body and the birth process.

Episode 37: All Things Solo Parenting with Tracy

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I talk with Tracy about her experiences as a single parent. Tracy shares her story of becoming a parent, the emotional and practical challenges she faced during pregnancy and postpartum, and how she navigated these with the help of friends and self-care practices. The discussion highlights the importance of having a supportive network, the realities of single parenting, and the need for self-compassion and intentional self-care routines.

Episode 36: Tips for Weaning Your Baby onto Solids with Amy

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond I speak with my co-host Amy about weaning babies, sharing personal anecdotes and discussing various methods such as baby-led weaning and purees. We address the pressures and societal expectations surrounding infant feeding, the importance of adapting to individual children’s needs, and the challenges of introducing new foods. The conversation also touches on practical tools like bibs and toddler towers that aid in the weaning process, emphasising the need for flexibility and understanding in navigating this developmental stage.

Episode 35: Birth Partner Role in Birth

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I speak to guest Ellie Waddington, a hypnobirthing teacher, to explore the significance of empowering expectant parents by addressing both the birthing individual’s and their partner’s experiences and fears. We discuss the impact of societal conditioning on birth perceptions, the need for informed decision-making, and the importance of personalised support through hypnobirthing. Our conversation highlights the challenges posed by the conventional medical model, advocating for a more holistic and individualised approach to childbirth that empowers parents to make informed choices and fosters positive birth experiences.

How I Chose My Birth Squad

I remember those early months of pregnancy with my first baby. It was overwhelming, full of horrific all day long

Weeks where life is whooping your butt!

This week has also been a week with heavy emotion. I’m grateful my mental health is generally pretty good and I have built up some great resilience, but there are times when I can’t smile or push my way through my feelings, and I have to remind myself, that like I tell my children, it’s really important to feel our feelings.

Parenting As A Recovering Perfectionist

A perfectionist is someone who expects the highest standards possible, though that isn’t necessarily applied to each and every scenario.

For me, it was my expectation of myself. I’ve always expected perfection and berated myself for anything less. Eeeesh!

Episode 34: 3 Easy Ways to Reduce Pain in Labour

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond Podcast I provide a detailed discussion on three methods to alleviate labour pain: using a TENS machine, which interrupts pain signals with a tingling sensation; practicing controlled breathing to reduce stress and support hormone balance; and incorporating movement to aid labour progression and comfort.

Episode 33: Morning Sickness

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I discuss the challenges of morning sickness during pregnancy, debunking the myth that it only occurs in the morning. I offer practical tips such as consuming dry, crunchy foods and herbal teas, and explores alternative therapies like acupressure, reflexology, and acupuncture. I also emphasise the importance of seeking medical advice if symptoms become severe and encourages listeners to share their own tips for managing morning sickness.

Episode 32: Molly’s Birth Story | Water Birth, Home Birth, High BMI

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I talk with guest Molly about her empowering home birth journey. Despite being labeled as high risk due to her BMI, Molly successfully navigated the challenges by trusting her intuition and advocating for her birth preferences. She highlights the significance of personalised care, informed choices, and the support of knowledgeable birth partners. Molly’s story underscores the importance of questioning medical biases and embracing one’s own birth plan, leading to a fulfilling and positive birth experience.

To find out how Molly can support you can contact [email protected] or go to: https://www.instagram.com/confidentbirths_

Episode 31: Juggling work and life as a parent, with Hannah

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I chat with my guest, Hannah, to explore the complexities of juggling parenting, work, and personal well-being. We discuss the challenges of dealing with tongue tie issues, the importance of hypnobirthing, and the need for self-care and setting boundaries. Hannah shares her experience of taking time for herself, the significance of delegating tasks, and the upcoming changes in tax regulations for sole traders. The conversation highlights the necessity of prioritising personal needs and adapting to various life phases while maintaining a balance between career and family responsibilities.

To learn more about Hannah and how she can help you go to www.chivrall.com

Episode 30: On Balance

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I discuss the significance of creating balance and finding rest amid the demands of early parenthood and daily life. Emphasising the need for intentional self-care, I suggest taking short, mindful breaks to recharge and highlight the benefits of practices like yoga nidra. The podcast encourages listeners to share rest with partners and take time away from devices to fully engage with their surroundings and improve overall well-being.

Episode 29: Part 2 Behind the scenes chat with Amy

In the latest episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I continue this discussion with my co-host Amy. We talk about many subjected related to health, personal growth, and self-care. I shares my experiences with managing Hashimoto’s, the importance of prioritizing health, and the role of yoga in managing anxiety and ADHD. The conversation also touches on the significance of making time for self-care amidst a busy life, the benefits of small changes, and the impact of movement on mental health. We also explore the idea of vision boards and personal goals, highlighting the importance of balance and gratitude in life.

Episode 28: Amy & Candy talk behind the scenes to get all the goss

In the latest episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I chat with my co-host Amy about my personal life, including my experiences as a parent of three, my journey of personal growth, and lifestyle changes over the years. We explore topics such as the dynamics of parenting multiple children, personal interests, and how life has evolved with age and family responsibilities. The discussion also touches on my love for nature, mindfulness practices, and my aspirations for the future.

Episode 27: What you need to know about birth pools

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I’m Not Ready To Give Birth At The End Of Pregnancy!

Are you nearing the end of your pregnancy and feeling overwhelmed by the idea of giving birth? You’re not alone! Many people go through pregnancy without ever witnessing a birth or holding a newborn, which makes the whole experience feel a little daunting. I wrote this post to support you!

Episode 26: Too posh to push? I’m furious!

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Episode 25: The best thing you can do when you get Braxton Hicks

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I’m sharing the best thing you can do when experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions. Share this one with all of your pregnant friends! Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic uterine tightenings that differ from labour contractions as they do not involve the build-up of birthing hormones. They can last from 30 seconds to a couple of minutes and are more common in subsequent pregnancies. Managing them involves slowing down breathing and adopting forward-leaning positions, which provide comfort and create space for the baby. These practices also help in preparing the body for labor by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which is crucial for the production of oxytocin and endorphins. Understanding and practicing these techniques can be beneficial, especially for those experiencing pregnancy for the first time or those who have conceived through fertility treatments.

Episode 24: Catch Up with Amy

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Episode 23: Why is breastfeeding not always easy?

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I explore the complexities of breastfeeding, emphasizing that it can be a challenging experience for many due to a lack of exposure and knowledge. I compare the learning process to an alien trying to drive a car, highlighting the importance of understanding human lactation beyond just nutrition. I also provide really practical advice on seeking support, such as consulting lactation consultants and utilizing resources like La Leche League. I address the impact of birth experiences on feeding and stress the importance of early support to prevent issues like nipple damage and low milk supply. The episode encourages you to prepare for your feeding journey by gathering resources and support networks in advance.

Episode 22: Vaginal examinations, what you need to know, with Amy

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I talk with my co-host Amy about the important topic of vaginal examinations during childbirth. We explore why these examinations have become normalized in Western society and discuss the potential risks and lack of necessity in many cases. The conversation highlights the importance of informed consent and understanding personal choices in childbirth. We also touch on the broader medicalization of childbirth and the need for individualized care, encouraging listeners to educate themselves and advocate for their preferences. We both share personal experiences and anecdotes to illustrate the impact of these practices and the empowerment that comes from making informed decisions.

Episode 21: Help for an unsettled baby and frazzled parents

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I provide support and advice for parents of unsettled babies. I talk about the importance of self-care to maintain a regulated nervous system, suggesting that parents find small moments for relaxation and seek help from friends or family. I also recommend exploring craniosacral osteopathy to address potential physical tension in infants and consulting specialists for oral dysfunction issues like tongue ties. The episode aims to offer empathy, practical tips, and reassurance that the challenging phase of parenting an unsettled baby will eventually pass.

Episode 20: Second trimester preparing for parenting life with Courtney

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, host I talk with Courtney, a pregnant yoga client, about the importance of communication and support in preparing for parenthood. We discuss creating a wellbeing plan, sharing household responsibilities, and managing sleep deprivation. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding each other’s needs and maintaining open communication to ensure a supportive environment for both partners as they transition into parenthood.

Episode 19: Want more energy?

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I emphasise the importance of managing energy and well-being, especially for parents who often feel exhausted and overwhelmed. I discuss the importance of understanding the nervous system, differentiating between the parasympathetic and sympathetic states, and the need for regular relaxation to maintain health. I also get a bit personal and share my journey of healing and self-discovery, highlighting the societal pressures that often lead to neglecting self-care. I’m also inviting you to join a workshop aimed at teaching techniques to regulate the nervous system and encourage you to prioritize their needs to prevent burnout and chronic illness.

Episode 18: Pregnancy Back Pain, Top 5 Tips

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I share valuable insights for managing back pain during pregnancy. Ie emphasise the importance of maintaining a neutral posture to alleviate strain on the spine and encourage keeping the glute muscles active through exercises like squats. I also recommends Epsom salt baths for muscle relaxation and highlight the benefits of pregnancy yoga for overall well-being. For persistent pain, I suggests consulting specialists such as osteopaths or physiotherapists. Additionally, I invite listeners to a live workshop offering practical tools for busy moments.

Episode 17: Expectations vs Reality with Danni

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I chat with my guest Dannii to explore the theme of expectations in parenthood, sharing personal experiences about how reality often differs from what is planned. We discuss the significant life changes that come with having a child, such as career shifts and the emotional challenges of childcare decisions. The conversation highlights the importance of flexibility, the impact of societal expectations, and the lessons learned from children, emphasising the need to trust one’s instincts and adapt to changing circumstances.

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