A Woman's Design Doula Group Minneapolis | St. Paul Doula & Childbirth Education Services
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The more things Change...

4/14/2020

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PictureTabling my first event April 14, 2012





January 2010: I drove to a small town in Iowa in a blizzard for the first of many doula and childbirth educational trainings. Before setting out to do so, I created a vision board for all of the things that I would hope to see come out of the decision to change careers.

April 14, 2012: I tabled the first of many events to promote services that included, but wasn’t limited to: offering birth and postpartum services, teaching classes and workshops, building a team, opening a space that would house all of these services and people, collaboration with complimentary service providers, teaching medical providers and consumers alike about the benefits of doulas before, during and after the birth of a mother and baby, and more importantly, the thing that drove me the most — holding the space for mother’s and their partners to own and tap into their innate power to make confident, informed decisions about their bodies and their babies.

After ten years, I reflect on all that A Woman’s Design has contributed in the birth community and with the clients we have had the privilege to work with, we have definitely left an imprint and have done all of those things I dreamed of. And I say that with all humility.

We have supported almost 300 families in the last ten years. That number may seem small but it was never about the numbers. It was always about the impact. We offered an emotional equity and hands on approach that could only allow us to serve so many families at a time. And we saw the benefits of working in that capacity.

We weren’t the only people doing this type of work. In fact, there were birth workers before me, during our time and more to come who will continue to support families in innovative and holistic ways.

The More They Stay The Same:

After sincere thought and consideration, we are humbled to announce the closure of A Woman’s Design, effective immediately, as we set our sights on new goals.

I have been at a crossroad for some time and my personal and professional passions have moved more in the direction of working one on one with female entrepreneurs who are having “babies” of their own: their businesses. It is an area that has been organically pulling on me for the past 5 years by way of mentoring young entrepreneurs at high schools, speaking at colleges, mentoring and coaching a small group of female service providers. From conception and growing to the next natural developmental phase of up-scaling, to overcoming external and internal obstacles — consulting and teaching the whole person, not just the entrepreneur, is a calling that I am grateful and prepared to live into.

What’s Next?

I don’t have a dream board this time. I am just going with the flow of opportunities. Opportunities that align with my core beliefs and values, my passions and where I feel at most at peace.

I will always continue to advocate for women’s health and rights, just... re-imagined.

This fantastic journey wouldn’t have been possible without you!

I want thank all of the families who trusted us during such vulnerable and intimates times. Thank you for trusting us with your dreams and fears. Thank you trusting us with your precious babies. Please keep the pictures coming. It is so fun to watch your littles grow up! Brilliant, adorable and hilarious they are!

I thank my amazing team, those who have come and gone throughout the years. I have learned so much from working with you. Your passion for women and families will continue to set this birth world on fire. I will continue to support you and root for you and the work that you are doing.

To the birth workers: doulas, doctors, midwives, massage therapists, mental health therapists, educators and the super cool creatives who created products and services tailored just for birthing people and their babies...wow!

What an honor it has been knowing you and working with you. Truly! What an amazing reminder to us all that we can’t do anything alone and together we can accomplish things bigger than ourselves.

To my family, friends, and mentors who have seen the sacrifices, tears and successes over the years and the behind the scenes wrestling with this decision...thank you for your offered wisdom and unconditional love and support...

Blessings upon blessings,

Natalia Hals

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Why I ran away from home on Mother's Day

5/17/2018

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It’s Mother’s Day and I ran away from home. I packed my bag, not to be confused with my every day bags. Any other day it is not uncommon for me to be carrying a minimum of at least three bags. Each bag identifies all of my roles in life. Today, I’m not bringing all of those I’m just bringing the basics. I’m filling my little messenger bag with a bottle of water snacks and a notebook and a pen and a back up phone charger.

Not more than a few short minutes away from home I feel this incredible pressure on my chest. The further I drive from home the more intense it feels and all I could do is cry. I imagine the sensation of a defibrillator used to de-fibrillate the heart or when compressions are done because someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped.

That might be at it. To breathe. I’ve noticed I’ve been sighing a lot more lately almost more than talking. Medically,
Feldman's research shows sighing is an important part of maintaining proper lung function. Other experts say sighing is also linked to stress reduction, frustration, longing, and several other emotions. Sounds about right. Sometimes I have felt like I am struggling in the water and trying not to drown. Sometimes I'm above water, sometimes I'm under. 

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And as I drive further from the city towards the country I saw many towers. And the weeping started to subside and I noticed that the pressure feels lighter.

The towers make me think of all of the responsibilities things that I feel like I have people I’m responsible to and for. I visualize myself sitting at a command center and I can see all of these towers flickering on and off, every one feeling as urgent as the next.   

When I’m asked how I am feeling, I give a surfacing answer because it's been a while since I stopped to really feel anything. And what if I do? What am I going to do with it? So the sighing starts and replaces word. I can’t find the words to share how I’m feeling overwhelmed? Panicked? At peace? Hurt? Exhausted? Disappointment? Loved? Failure? Success? Confused? Clarity? Lost? Lost? I don’t know. 

I don’t stop long enough to feel what I’m feeling and I quickly swivel my chair over to the next blinking red tower that is in need of assistance.

​Right now everyone is talking about self-care. You need to take some time for yourself. You need to make sure you’re doing self-care. You've heard the age-old analogy, 
"You need to make sure you’re putting on your oxygen mask before you can assist anyone else."

This advice is very true and valuable but there’s one problem. We as women and mothers don’t know how to push away from the command center and trust that everything is going to be OK. We don't trust that the world won’t stop spinning if we are off duty.

And it’s not because we think we are so important and that we are the only ones who can manage the command center (well maybe a little). The truth is we are so invested in the people we care about. If they feel we fail. If they hurt we hurt. If the project doesn’t go well we feel entirely responsible, even if it’s a shared endeavor. 

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One time when I was with clients at a birth, as a doula, and noticed that the expectant father would not leave the monitor. He watched it for hours anxiously. With every dip of the baby's heart rate he would shoot a panicked look at me. I would give him a reassuring look and he would relax and but still study the monitor. At that point nothing I said would pull him away from it. He was exhausted and desperately needed to get some rest as the baby's birth was imminent. He refused several times until I placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and said, "You need to rest. I will watch your baby for you." He eventually accepted my offer, laid on the couch and within a few short minutes fell into a overdue rest. 

I truly believe this is may be the  missing key to self-care. Knowing and trusting that someone is capable and willing to "watch your baby" while you go and take care of yourself. Maybe it is just overdue sleep, but maybe it is permission to step away from the command center and do what restores you. Start with the basics if you can't think of anything (rest, exercise, being outside, reading a good book, coffee with friends, etc.)


Whether it is your spouse, friends, family members or coworkers we need to have people in our lives that we can trust to take the wheel. 

So I ran away from home on Mother’s Day and it was the best thing I’ve done in a long time. And next time I won’t be running and I won’t be worrying. I’m going to push away from the command center and trust that I have placed people around me who have my best interest in mind. I am also going to make sure that they know that I can be that to them as well.  I encourage you to reach out to someone today.

All the best,
Natalia


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Should I Stay...Or Should I Go? Part 2

9/25/2017

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That was hard for me to write. I hate quitting or what appears to be quitting. My upbringing required a lot of tenacity and determination. Those are great skills to have when you are attempting to accomplish anything. Like most things there needs to be balance.

I also hate endings and struggle with leaving anything even when it is clear that the time has come for a change. I used to freeze when an opportunity would come because I would think I would have to be committed to it for the long haul. It didn’t matter what it was, a new job, volunteering, etc. Anything that did not have an end date I started to avoid or I would procrastinate with the decision and then I would stay with it too long. It is one downside to those traits.

I share this with you because when you are in the early stages of parenthood there is so much pressure put on our decisions that affect our family. We don’t want to make any mistakes and so we tend to struggle with the process of making any necessary changes when the time comes.

As you think about staying at home or going back to work I want you to close your eyes, take a deep breath and consider that the decision you make doesn’t have to be forever. In fact, life will make sure of that. You have a right to change your mind if the decision you made is just not working. And you will know. It will feel like the grace has lifted for you to continue to do what you decided to do. It could be an external pressure or change like a job loss, or sick parent, spouse or child. Or your own personal emotional or physical well being. Things are not flowing like they used to no matter how many adjustments you make you just know it is no longer working.

With anything it is great to have touchpoints or check-in times to re-evaluate if the path you are going is still the right one. Do not obsess over it (“Did I make the right decision?). You want to be fully in the decision you made because double-mindedness causes confusion. I want to challenge you to make a point periodically to stop and make sure that the reason you made the choice is still valid. Has anything changed that would warrant a shift? There may need to be a redirect or a small adjustment to stay the course.

Remember, whatever decision you make begin with the end in mind and remember that it doesn’t have to be forever. There is power in decision making.

Do you have a problem with shifting or making changes? What boundaries or check-points can you set up to help along the way?

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Should I Stay or Should I Go?

9/8/2017

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A common conversation we have as doulas with our clients is the one of “Should I stay home after baby is born? If so, how long?” “I am planning on returning to work. How soon should I return and what can I do to make that transition smooth for my family.”

I know from personal experience and from working so closely with women over the years that these concerns tend to be in the forefront of their mind as soon as they have learned of their pregnancy.

I have been a single mother, a full-time mother in college, full-time working mother, a stay at home mother and a work from home mother. I get it. It is the question that we are always wrestling with and I would like to share some 4 important tips that have helped me with these decisions over the years.

Part One: Begin With The End In Mind

Your little one may already be here or you may be counting the days until you see their face but it is not too late to begin this process with the end in mind. By the end I mean, what are the biggest things you would like to accomplish with motherhood? That sounds like a loaded question doesn’t it?

In the beginning it is so hard to imagine your kids leaving the nest but I am here to tell you with a daughter graduating from college in the spring, that it really does feel like a blink of an eye. So with that in mind, what do you want them to take as they venture out into the world? What values do you want to impart into them while they are under your roof? This will look different for every mom and every family.

Some examples may be:

A strong family bond
A strong connection with their siblings
A love for traveling
Education
Being able to provide financially
Being amazing people that you launch into the world (character development)
Spirituality
Confidence and strong sense of self identity


I’m sure you can name some more and remember it doesn’t have to look like anyone else's. It’s about you and your family. Try to list three and if you are having a hard time thinking of some, consider your own childhood. What would you like to share with them? What didn’t you experience or take with you that you would like to give you kids?

​As you navigate the decision to stay home or return to work, start with the beginning in mind.

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Chiropractic, Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Infants.

1/11/2017

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Although Chiropractic is still often seen as an “alternative” to our mainstream medical world, here are the facts that we have seen first-hand.

Prenatal chiropractic care may reduce labor time, reduces risk of interventions while in labor, can assist babies in achieving optimal position in utero by allowing the pelvis to be in the correct position to give space to baby, and supports moms-to-be by relieving pains related to pregnancy such as sciatica, low back pain, and heartburn. Chiropractic care gets moms body aligned so the internal space for baby is opened. Combined with bodywork from a prenatal certified massage therapist, mom and baby can reap the benefits and work towards the birth they desire.

Postnatal chiropractic care is the perfect time to reset a mom’s body with the surplus of the relaxin hormones present. Chiropractic care counteracts challenges arising from a repetitive posture due to caring for babies by holding, carrying, and nursing. Chiropractic care can help improve healing from damage from birth interventions and doctor-aided deliveries. Birth can take up to one year for mother’s to recover!

Birth requires mother and baby to be active participants, which is not easy for either of them. Both benefit from care after delivery. Craniosacral can help mothers with mood and postpartum depression. Chiropractors can also recommend specific nutritional recommendations to help with various conditions and injuries.
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Infants can receive chiropractic care too! Adjustments on infants are so gentle. Some babies sleep through the adjustment entirely. Craniosacral can be beneficial for infants after delivery by improving breastfeeding, latching, colic, and reflux. It can also help with cranial molding and correct birth canal trauma.


Guest Author

Dr. Jennifer Massa, D.C., C.C.S.P. of Sprout Chiropractic and Wellness. Dr. Jen and Roseville Chiropractic Center is committed to integrating the people, health related services and nutritional and health education opportunities necessary to make dreams come alive.

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Take A Hand, Be A Friend

1/6/2017

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2016 was a rollercoaster ride for many people, A Woman’s Design was not excluded. We experienced the amazing birth of one of our own baby’s and new amazing birth & postpartum doulas were added to our team. We also experienced illnesses, losses and other challenges that we know even our clients have had to navigate.
 
I usually start every new year with my “word” for the year (this year it is "stand") and a fun day of vision board building. This particular year felt different as the remnants of 2016 continue to carry through. I can’t shake this heavy feeling in my heart that I am not the only one who could use some accountability when it comes to asking for help and being available to help. I’d like to challenge us all to make a pact- a promise if you will. 

I will take a hand and be a friend.

This probably sounds very sophomoric but I think we make things too complicated sometimes which leads us to not doing them. I will take a hand and be a friend simply means I will reach out to someone who needs help and I will be willing to receive help that is being extended to me.

Here are a few things I am hoping we all can pledge to do:

I will try to get face to face with someone- to be seen and to see. “I need to see your face.” This is something my friends and I have said to each other over the years. It is so easy to rely on the  convenience of texting and sending messages on social media that we forget the importance of face to face time. How many times has someone sent you a note asking you how you were and you said “fine” when you really weren’t? Now, try to do that face to face. Knees to knees. It requires making time and being vulnerable, yes, but it is so worth it. If face to face is not possible because of lack of time or logistics, make a phone call. You’ll hear in their voice if they truly are fine.​ Be persistent and don't feel like you are being a bother.  

I will do the thing that has been placed on my heart to do. How many times have we offered to help someone but it was a kind of blank check of sorts? How about we stop what we are doing, if we can, and do the thing we said we were willing to do. If cooking is your thing make a little more for your friend. If you are out running errands by a friend, call and ask if she needs anything. Send a handwritten note in the mail. Send her a gift card to a place that she can treat herself. Actually schedule time to connect- on the spot if you can. Make a plan to watch the kids. You get my point. Put some action in your intention. We all mean well. We do. But life will blow us in the other direction before we can follow through.
 
We all live our lives in seasons. Sometime we have an abundance of time, money, energy, etc. and we are in better positions to help someone if the needs arise. We should be investing in people. It takes time to grow anything and that includes relationships. When we are operating in a surplus let’s try to see who we can pour into when our cup is running over.
 
I will open my hands to recieve and make my needs known. Just like there are seasons of abundance there are also seasons when we are the ones who need support. Life ebbs and flows that way. If you are used to being the caretaker, the strong one, and it feels strange to receive help….get over it. The truth is, healthy relationships require both parties being able to give and receive. If you are the friend that is always saving everyone, are perceived as having it all together and never in need of anything you are doing a disservice to yourself and the people who can and want to contribute to the relationship. Don’t believe me? Ask them. If you are someone who needs help, make a list of things that could really help you. When someone says, “Let me know how I can help.” What would you do if you had free time? Brainstorm ideas. You will be ready with your list. If you are someone who prides themselves in being self-sufficient it may be the biggest challenge. Do it now.

I will take the bold step in asking for what I need even before I need it. Send Out an SOS. In popular usage, SOS became associated with such phrases as "Save Our Ship" or "Send Out Succour" or "Save our Soul".  I’ve been doing this recently. Sending out S.O.S.'s. I like to call it “Save Our Sister”.  I admit that I do a great job at taking care of everyone else but have found it challenging to ask for help. One way I have challenged myself is to preemptively let my friends and family know what I may need and how I would best receive it.

For example, a recent text I sent to friends, “Please remind me that I am not alone, that I am loved and that God still has a plan and a hope for my future. You can send it in a text, email, call or a message in a bottle- just please remind me when you think of me.” On a great day, I know these things in my heart but on a day when life has steamrolled over you, backed up and done it again a few more times it helps to know ahead of time what words, gestures or support would mean the most to you and then share that with the people you know love you.

Will you make this a priority this year? Will you allow yourself to be vulnerable and available this year and moving forward? We owe it to ourselves. Here's to many warm hugs, ugly cries and feeling the love that was always there.

Are there things that you would add to this list? Comment below with other suggestions and #takeahandbeafriend and let us know that you are joining us <3

Please feel free to share this to open a dialogue with those closest to you or to someone that you think could use this encouragement. 
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Introducing Our New Addition!

1/5/2017

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I don't know about you, but the instant I saw that positive pregnancy test, my entire life became consumed by this little person that was to become.
 
I couldn't wait to call my doctor to schedule an appointment, hoping they would give me some personal affirmation, support, encouragement, or even that they would express a little bit of excitement to match my own. But I would always leave that initial appointment feeling a little disappointed. A standard pregnancy test very similar to the one I'd taken at home would be completed in the office by someone I didn’t know, and the pregnancy would be clinically confirmed. I would be booked for my first prenatal visit - which wasn’t until I was 12 weeks pregnant. On my way out the door, I was handed a generic pamphlet that reminded me not to eat blue cheese, lunch meat, or raw sushi. Needless to say, my need for emotional or informational support was not met, and I walked out of the office feeling the weight of all my unanswered questions hanging heavy on my shoulders.
 
I was always longing for a way to be active and engaged in my pregnancy. Even early on, I didn’t want to just passively wait for my next appointment. Pregnancy is not just a physical condition requiring medical monitoring - it is a complete transformation within the life of a woman and her family.
 
I wanted this to be a shared, supported experience.
I wanted to be as informed as possible.
I wanted to do my best to do the right things.
I wanted to enjoy it as much as I could despite the discomforts.
I wanted to be told what I was experiencing was normal.
I wanted my fears to be reassured by people who showed that they really cared.
I wanted face to face connection with those who were walking the same path I was.
I wanted to be affirmed as a mother - even though my mothering journey had only just begun.
And all I had was a pamphlet.
 
For personal reasons, we had decided to wait a while to share our news, like a lot of people choose to do. Those weeks and months are very emotional - they are exciting, scary, thrilling, exhausting, and uncertain. Prenatal visits with a primary care provider do not start until 12 weeks, since there is not much to monitor during that time. That is 3 whole months of waiting.
 
And waiting.
And waiting.
Alone.
 
Of course it’s not realistic for a doctor’s office to provide a patient with all of the emotional and physical support they need during a pregnancy. A doctor’s job is to medically monitor pregnancy for safety. Midwives spend more time emotionally investing in their clients during pregnancy, but of course they cannot do it all - nor should they.
 
I could write to unknown faces across the internet on places like BabyCenter or even on Facebook mom groups. But a “congratulations” from a nameless face (or avatar) is just not the same as a congratulatory hug or spoken word of encouragement.
 
The doulas and educators of A Woman’s Design have lived this walk. We completely understand that once you have a pregnancy confirmed, the weeks and months before the start of your prenatal visits are very emotional. It is a sensitive time of pregnancy that is not often acknowledged, especially since mom’s belly has not started to grow yet. Mom seems to be the only one who can feel the very real effects of this pregnancy - both emotionally and physically.
 
Wouldn't it be nice to come together with other expectant mothers to share your exciting news? Maybe you can find a pregnancy buddy to walk along this journey with and have your most common and embarrassing questions answered in a small group?
 
We would like to introduce you to A Woman’s Design, Online Prenatal Wellness Program. We know you’re busy but you still want information and community.
 
The Prenatal Wellness Program is intended to bridge the gap between early pregnancy and the time you take a complete childbirth education series as well as encourage and enhance women and their family's confidence throughout pregnancy, childbirth and parenting.
 
We cannot wait to meet you and celebrate your little one…because you shouldn’t have to wait.

 http://www.awomansdesign.com/prenatal-wellness-program.html
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Baby’s First: Surviving the Holidays

12/8/2016

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    The holidays are always full of excitement, joy, and optimistic wonder of the unknown adventures that the new year presents. Unlike other people eagerly awaiting the new year, mothers who have recently welcomed a bundle of joy into their lives have an extra, often unseen and unspoken burden when facing the holidays and the new year. So, before facing the holidays here are some tips to keep your heart, family, and home happy and healthy.

The holidays are filled with love and joy especially when introducing the newest member of your family to loved ones. However, many mothers struggle with finding a balance between social events and bonding time with their new baby and other children. Your baby’s first holiday season is important and should be cherished above all else. Staying home or cutting social events short can greatly reduce your stress levels and increase your time with baby. Small statements such as “the baby needs rest” or “the holidays are really hard on my immune system” can help remind family members and friends better understand your situation.

  1. At family gatherings, placing your baby in an Ergobaby or a Baby Bjorn can reduce stress levels. By having your baby close to your body at social events, your child can relax, sleep, and feel comforted while you socialize. Also, wearing your baby will help reduce his or her contact with other people while reducing chances of over stimulation or stress.
  2. While at social gathering allow yourself some quiet time. Sneak away to a less crowded area to collect yourself. Take a few moments to yourself. This will help reduce drain from over stimulation.
  3. Social outings can drain the whole family therefore it is important allow yourself and your baby time to wine down and decompress. Setting time limits and leaving the party early can shorten the duration of event which will allow you more time at home with your baby.
  4. Hiring qualified and knowledgeable postpartum help can help maximize the effectiveness of your rest periods between events. Planning to have a doula meet you at your home and care for you, your family, and your home, between holiday events will decrease your family’s stress levels and help you enjoy each outing.​

Gift giving is a huge part of the holidays. However, most people are uncomfortable with vocalizing their gift requests. This holiday season stray away from material goods and try something new; ask for support.  Providing loved ones with a “wish list” for professional support allows long distant family members to provide overnight infant care, knowledgeable expertise, breastfeeding support, household chores assistance, and a piece of mind. Postpartum doula services are often forgotten during the holidays, but a request from you may be exactly what your loved ones need to hear.

For those looking for great gifts for friends with babies, the gift of infant and mother care from a knowledgeable postpartum doula can go a long way.  To a new mother the gift of knowing that her child is safe while she sleeps, showers, or even plays with her other children can mean the world. Postpartum doulas also provide evidence based support to mothers and encourage them through many different transitional phases.

Overall it is important to remember that the holidays is a time of joy and reflection. A time to cherish our loved ones and reflect on the past year.

PictureJoyce Thompson, Birth & Postpartum Doula
-Written by guest contributor and A Woman's Design doula, Joyce Thompson

​As a doula, Joyce's primary goal is to help women obtain births and postpartum support which incorporate her personal culture, customs, beliefs and ideology by providing constant support, encouragement and care.

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The Many Benefits of Maya Abdominal Therapy

10/26/2016

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Arvigo Maya Abdominal Therapy is a deep, slow, and relaxing massage of the abdomen and low back that comes from Central American healers and midwives and was adapted by naturopathic physician Rosita Arvigo. Recommended by Dr. Christiane Northrup in her hallmark book “Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom” as well as by women’s heath experts including Dr. Aviva Romm and Midwife Stephanie Brill, Maya Abdominal Therapy is known for easing digestive conditions, correcting the position of the uterus, and bringing blood, lymph, and chi to the area to stimulate the body’s own healing abilities.
 
How often do we all slouch forward, doubling over our bellies and breathing only into our chest? How many of us fell on our tailbones years ago, or have chronic misalignment and pain in our hips or sacrum? How many times do women hear from doctors that we are “just” infertile or menopausal, or have irritable bowl syndrome, low libido, fibroids, cysts, scar tissue, painful periods, pelvic pain, a weak bladder or perineum, and there’s simply “nothing they can do” except surgery or intensive drugs? Doctors have few tools for these cases, but here’s where natural medicine comes in.
 
Maya Abdominal Therapy includes a holistic package of bodywork, pelvic steams, castor oil packs, nutritional counseling, and an opportunity to better understand and listen to a very neglected part of ourselves. The work relies on time tested tools – massage, heat, water, gentle herbs and organic oils – and an undisputed medical philosophy – where blood, lymph, breath, and chi goes, the body’s natural healing goes. The bodywork itself is an external technique that gradually deepens and softens scar tissue, pelvic ligaments, and adhesions in the intestinal tract and around the uterus and fascia holding the abdominal organs. You will have a chance to learn a self-massage to continue at home, and you can expect to come out feeling more grounded, open, breathing more deeply and easily, and you may need to take a trip to the bathroom!
 
The abdomen and sacrum are sensitive and responsive areas of the body, and even one treatment session plus self-care at home can stimulate nerves and release blockages to relive painful periods, increase libido, and encourage healthy digestion, elimination, and better control of urination and fewer urinary infections. A series of 3 monthly treatments is generally recommended for those working through layers of chronic scar tissue, or alongside allopathic medicine, chiropractic care, or acupuncture for infertility, fibroids, cysts, endometriosis, pelvic pain, or prolapse. Also keep in mind that the best time for a Maya Abdominal session is at least 30 minutes after a meal, and when not using an IUD, not menstruating, not post-ovulation if you are trying to conceive, and not during the first trimester of pregnancy. The treatment should have space to take effect without interfering with any other "work" or sensitivities in the area.
 
How many of us avoid the sight of our bellies, never revealing or touching this soft, vulnerable part of ourselves? How many of us moan and groan at every round of PMS, bleeding, or a hot flash? Could that possibly translate into stuck energy, congested blood vessels and nerves, and over time, disease and poor function in the area? Even if you only try Maya Abdominal Therapy once, what you will learn and explore in a single session will have you thinking about and holding your belly in a whole new way.
 
- Ihotu Jennifer Ali, MPH, CLC, NCBMB

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​As a nationally certified massage therapist, birth and postpartum doula, lactation counselor, and sexual violence counselor, my practice focuses especially on fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and increasing libido, as well as for those with histories of harassment, assault, sexual violence, traumatic birth experiences, and inappropriate clinical touch or medical treatment. Sessions are consent-based and we work together as partners to plan the treatment that would feel most comfortable and which areas of the body to focus, and bodywork can be done either fully or partially clothed.
 

"Ihotu is a kind and gentle healing presence, and my body trusted that she would work with tensions without going past its limits at that moment. The abdominal method she practices -- which can work with emotional, physical, and biological unbalances -- is so necessary because the abdominal region is such a charged and ignored area in our society."
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– Massage and Bodyworker, New York City
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Advice For Moms Who Pump

9/27/2016

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We all know that breastfeeding is best for babies. However, in some situations, putting the baby to the breast full time is not possible. Some moms work, sometimes it takes longer than usual for babies to learn to latch properly, and sometimes there may be a physical challenge like a tongue tie or cleft palate which makes breastfeeding very difficult or impossible.  

Even if a baby cannot be at the breast for whatever reason, there is another option. A growing number of moms today are pumping their milk for their babies. Thanks to technology, modern moms have more options than ever for feeding their babies.

Pumping takes commitment and it’s not always easy. So here are a few tips for those choosing to pump.

  1. Invest in a good pump. This is a must. A cheap handheld pump can be helpful and effective in a pinch, and it can’t hurt to have one as an emergency to go. However, if you are planning to pump on a regular basis for your baby, you would do well to be using a good one. Electric pumps (especially double pumps) are very effective, comfortable to use, and worth the cost. They are also being made to look quite stylish these days, so you don’t need to worry about being embarrassed carrying it around.
  2. Make sure your shield is the correct fit. Many do not know that the shield that comes with the pump is not your only option. Nipple sizes vary from woman to woman and if your pump is not a proper fit you can get a new one. Talk to a lactation specialist about how to get the right fit for you. This just may save your breastfeeding relationship, or your ability to pump.
  3. Start early if possible. If you know you are going to be pumping, start making a habit of it as soon as you can after birth. This establishes pumping as a part of your routine and rhythm. If, however, it becomes apparent that you will need to pump long after giving birth, you can still get started pumping at any time and be successful at it.  
  4. Become well versed on proper storage for breastmilk. Breastmilk storage requires simple but deliberate storage instructions. Click here to read about safe storage and handling instructions.
  5. Find your own rhythm. Moms who have pumped for their babies are usually glad to share their stories about what worked for them, and how they got into a schedule. It’s so important to have a community of support, but understand that each situation is unique. What worked for someone else may not work in your situation, so it’s important to find your groove and test what is going to work.
  6. Have an open conversation with your employer. If you are pumping because you are returning to work, it’s important to discuss your situation with your employer. Be honest about the time you are going to need. If you are hoping to pump full time for a 6 week old baby, you are going to need more than one ten minute break a day to pump. You’ll probably need several that are a minimum of 15 minutes each. Remind your employer that the longer you pump, the less time you’ll need for breaks. As your baby grows and your body adjusts to pumping, you won’t need as much time to pump. Know your rights as a breastfeeding mother who is working.

Breastfeeding is hard work. Pumping takes the breastfeeding commitment to the next level. Know that you are not alone, and that you are giving your baby an incredible gift. Motherhood is largely a thankless job, and the effort you’re putting in for your baby will pay off in ways you may never fully understand. Good, job, mom. Keep up the good work.

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    A Woman's Design

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