Can a foot massage really send you into labor? It's one of the biggest myths about prenatal massage! Let's talk about pregnancy pressure points, what's actually true, and why your tired, achy feet deserve a little extra attention.
Read moreHow early can I geta massage during my pregnancy?
Wondering how early you can get a prenatal massage? You don't necessarily have to wait until your second trimester. Learn what to expect from a first-trimester massage and how specialized prenatal care can support you during early pregnancy.
Read moreThe Massage That Surprised Us Both
The sweetest thing happened last week. I had a postpartum mama come in for her massage with her baby. She did everything right — she arrived early to feed him and try to get him to sleep, but it didn't work. We tried the bouncer and snuggling him on the table with her, but nothing calmed him down.
Then I had a wild and crazy idea. I asked if she had a carrier with her, and she did. So... I massaged her while I wore her baby, and he fell asleep right away. After all these years of giving prenatal and postpartum massage, this was a first! I shared a Reel on my Instagram page — check it out here. It really made my day.
Read moreWhat’s Actually Essential Postpartum?
What do you really need postpartum?
Read moreA Taste of the Village!?
This summer, I got a little taste of what it’s like to live near a lot of family — and it was pretty great.
My daughter (12), my son (1.5), and I flew to upstate New York for 16 days (17, if you count the flight delay/cancellation/fun). My husband joined us for the second half. We stayed at my aunt and uncle’s house for the whole time — which, honestly, is a lot. I still can’t believe they put up with us that long.
Read moreWhat the Heck is Mommy Wrist?!
If you're wondering how to check if this is what you’ve got, here’s the super-easy self-test: tuck your thumb into your palm, wrap your fingers around it, and then drop the pinky side of your wrist downward. (I know, real fancy, right?)
Read moreSelf Care Self Massage
Do you ever feel neck and shoulder tension? Pain? Do you get headaches? Do your arms, wrists and hands hurt? Are your jaw muscles tense?
I hear all of these from most of the postpartum moms I see. The energy it takes to care for a newborn can take a toll on your body.
And really getting weekly or daily massages would be the best, but who has time for that?
Self massage is one tool that you can have in your toolbox to help you find relief quickly and at home.
Imagine this. The baby is nursing non-stop for hours it seems like. They must be in a growth spurt and you finally put them down for a nap. Your neck and shoulders are on fire (actual words from an actual client). You haven't slept well in years it seems like. And your exhausted.
Read moreMovement Matters during Pregnancy
I want to share a little about moving while pregnant. I feel like there is this weird notion that pregnant mamas should not exercise. I totally understand if you are on bed rest, that will limit the kind of movement you will be able to do, but if you are having a healthy pregnancy movement is so very important.
In my massage office I have a questions on my intake form about exercise. Over the years I have had some women respond with "Not since getting pregnant!" Hmmm. I wonder why that is?
Movement is important while you are pregnant.
Read more6 Simple Ways to Improve your Pelvic floor health
There are many things you can do in your daily life to help improve the function of your pelvic floor.
Breathe deeply all day long. Holding your breath can create pressure and some Pelvic Floor Disfunction can be caused by pressure!! Try to relax your belly and breathe deeply into your rib cage. I like to practice this by wrapping my hands around my my lower ribs. When I breathe in, I press my ribs out in all directions and when I exhale I try to pull my ribs into a center post. Our ribs move and can help to create more space. It’s funny we never think about this.
Do your feet hurt? Do you take care of your feet? Many people suffer with foot pain and do not realize how healthy feet help to create a healthy body. One of the first things you can do is get out of heeled shoes. I am a big fan of #minimalshoes. They have wide toe boxes to allow your toes to move, no heel; meaning the ball of your foot and your heel are on the same level. The sole are minimal shoes are also flexible allowing your feet to move more!!
Creating Healthy Movement Habits
Have you been sitting in the same exact way all day?
In your comfy chair with the same leg crossed over the other for hours?
Actually have you been doing this for the last 10 or more years of your life?
Our sedentary habits are creating imbalances in your body. Stiffness, pain, weakness.
Then when you walk or run those same imbalances are present causing wear and tear on certain joints over others. Our bodies need more MOVEMENT not more EXERCISE.
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