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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Episode 16: New Year resolution not working? Me either. Here’s what I’m doing

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth & Beyond podcast, I explore the concept of New Year’s resolutions and how the often involve unrealistic goals. I have an alternative I want to propose instead. I’m sharing my personal gratitude practice, emphasising its positive impact on mental health, and inviting you to join a workshop designed to provide practical tools for personal growth. The episode encourages listeners to find what works for them and highlights the importance of small changes and gratitude in enhancing well-being.

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Episode 15: Amy’s Birth Story

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, host I talk with Amy about her journey to home birth. Amy shares her initial fears about childbirth and how she overcame them through hypnobirthing and preparation. She discusses the importance of feeling empowered and supported, highlighting the significant role her doula played in her experience. Despite challenges with her midwife, Amy’s preparation and support system helped her achieve a positive home birth. The episode also touches on the broader themes of birth preparation, the influence of societal norms, and the value of investing in a supportive birth experience.

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Episode 14: Finding yourself in amongst the chaos of parenting and life

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, Candy Elsbeth explores the concept of self-care for parents, highlighting the societal pressures on birthing parents to prioritise others over themselves. She shares personal experiences and insights on the challenges of maintaining self-care in demanding environments, such as healthcare and parenting. Candy emphasises the importance of setting boundaries, finding moments for personal well-being, and incorporating simple practices like mindful breathing into daily routines. She encourages listeners to reflect on their self-care habits and make changes to prevent burnout and health issues, ultimately aiming to pass on these lessons to the next generation.

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Episode 13: Why bedsharing may be the best kept secret and how to do it safely

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, host Candy Elsbeth and guest Amy explore the topic of bed sharing with children. They discuss the practicalities of creating a family bed, the emotional and physical benefits of co-sleeping, and the societal pressures and misconceptions surrounding it. They also share personal experiences, highlighting the importance of safe sleeping practices and the impact of parenting choices on family dynamics.

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Episode 7: The Fact and Fiction of Infant Reflux

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I explore the topic of infant reflux, emphasizing that many behaviors associated with reflux are actually normal for babies. The discussion highlights common misconceptions about infant feeding and behaviour, noting that frequent feeding, crying, and the need for close contact are typical. I want to advise against the hasty use of medication for reflux symptoms, suggesting alternative approaches such as paced bottle feeding, addressing tongue tie issues, and maintaining an upright position after feeding. The episode encourages parents to seek specialized support and provides resources for further understanding, including a recommended book on infant reflux.

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