Find yourself not sleeping well? Eating more junk food? Snapping at your family or experiencing more emotional upheaval? Running on empty and struggling to make it through the day?
I don’t know about you, but between coronavirus craziness, summer schedule survival, working on my own healing, and simply taking care of the day-to-day needs in my home, I feel like I’ve been in survival mode these days instead of THRIVING.
You too??
Feeling depleted, tired, stressed, and overwhelmed can really impact your health before you know it. If you’re already recovering from chronic conditions, this just adds another layer of stress and sometimes difficulty to get going on a healthier path.
I think it’s the perfect time to Reset, Restore, and Refresh and to take some time to focus on SIMPLE 5 minute daily habits that will lead to improved health (body,mind & spirit).
That's why I’ve created the 21 Day Reset on the Run for us! It’s a busy, mindful way to take back your health - body, mind, and spirit - one micro step at a time!
Ready for a Reset? REGISTER HERE
It’s never an easy thing to talk about your faults but when it comes to motherhood it’s downright mortifying. If we could choose wouldn’t we choose to be perfect in this area if we could? I know I would. I know you would. But we’re not, we’re just women and mother’s doing our best. Most of us admit only in dark corners of our social media comments on particularly bad days that we take a tally each night of our wins and losses and count that day as a failure and cry ourselves to sleep. Oh, if our kids only knew!
I never expected motherhood to be this hard. I never thought it would be this painful. After years of trying to conceive I imagined our days filled with crafts, reading books, snuggles and exploration. It was- at first, when we had one VERY easy baby who turned into a VERY easy toddler. Easy to the point that I literally couldn’t tell anyone how easy he was because they would kill me! You know textbook. Hit all his milestones on schedule. Slept 12 hours a night. Took two 3-hour naps during the day. Was 100% potty trained by 2…. So easy in fact that when he was 17 months-old we decided to try again for another. . . and we got two. Even though I was 39 when I was pregnant with the twins, I will tell you the pregnancy itself did nothing to prepare me for the coming storm.
The first few weeks were the normal for newborns. We got to know each other and it was difficult but in a “I’m caring for two human babies’ kind of way”. Then the symptoms of silent reflux started. We tried everything we could think of at the time to go the natural route- including going 100% dairy free (again) so that we could eliminate a dairy protein intolerance in my breastmilk. Give them formula you say? Well if there was 10 ways to give a baby milk from something other than a breast, we tried them all. They. Were. Not. Having. IT.
So, what does any of this have to do with PTSD? And mine specifically? In case you’re not counting when the twins were born, I had 3 under 3, my oldest only being 27 months old. I had a total lack of autonomy being tethered to my children 24-hours a day with no relief in sight left me completely depleted, which triggered a shame response “there’s something wrong with me for wanting time away” and then I would set an unrealistic goal (perfection in motherhood) and then become overwhelmed again, have another outburst. Rinse and repeat.
B.C (before children) I was able to manage my PTSD by living a well-ordered life. If I was tired, I slept. If I was hungry, I ate. In hindsight my life (other than infertility) was relatively stress free. I was able to self sooth in whatever way was pleasing to me at the time (most of the time those were healthy choices) I was seeing a therapist but because I wasn’t having “classic” panic attacks she never really let on that the sudden outburst of tears during a high pressure conversation (B.C) or in other situations that I would break down were actually panic attacks related to my PTSD from childhood trauma.
So, I know you might be thinking does she really have PTSD? And if she does, what from. Before I shed some light on that let me just tell you a little about PTSD. It’s not just for war vets anymore. Today over 7.7 million individuals are diagnosed with PTSD. Individuals suffering from PTSD may experience reoccurring nightmares, flashbacks, anger, rage, shame, guilt and extreme emotions. Typically, PTSD occurs when an individual has, among other criteria:1) Witnessed or is exposed to a traumatic event involving actual or threatened death or serious injury or a threat to the physical integrity of self or others. 2) experienced intense fear, helplessness, or horror from the event, resulting in the future avoidance of anything associated with the traumatic event. 3) continued neurological stimulation resulting in an inability to relax1.
Because of trauma I suffered as a child in the form of sexual and emotion abuse and abandonment I am triggered when I a) don’t feel heard b) I’m overstimulated c) I feel out of control. This manifest itself in so many ways but usually an exaggerated emotional response to the situation (aka-mom’s flipping out) or crying. None of these leave me feeling good about myself. Knowing what I know now, it's no surprise that I had all the major fertility issues I had.
After the twins were born, I didn’t want to go on medicine but I felt like I had to do something to help my mental health. I had already gone as far as seeing a psychologist to get a RX when I got introduced to Young Living. As soon as I started using the peace and calming that came in my kit, I knew that I had found the solution that I was looking for. I felt so better from day 1. I really felt empowered and started researching all the ways I could help myself with them. That’s when I found the gut /brain connection and started taking the Life 9 probiotics which totally cut my anxiety in half. I was calmer and happier mom that I wanted to be AND I also had a way to help my babies with their big emotions.
As the saying goes.... little kids, little problems. Big kids, bigger problems. As my kids grew, my emotions grew alongside them. Less control, meant more outburst. So now along with the essential oils I take a pure CBD isolate by Nature’s Ultra to help me cope. Now, I have tool. Now I have come to recognize when I need to have some quiet time. Now I’m finally also learning to take care of me.
If you're a survivor of trauma and looking for natural ways to support your PTSD or (in)fertility.
HERE'S YOUR TRIBE
[1] American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical manual of Mental disorder, fourth edition. Text revision, Washington D.C., American Psychiatric Association 2000. Pp 218-220
If it hasn’t happened to you already you and I both know that it’s coming. . . After several long months of being cooped up with *literally* NO WHERE to go we’re going to be getting a lot of news from our friends of unexpected pregnancy’s.
For woman with infertility issues and repeat miscarriages this is a daily struggle, but soon it will seem like SO many of your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors are” accidently” pregnant. And for someone struggling with infertility? Well that, that is a WHOLE other level of pain.
I will tell you as someone from the other side. You have only 2 choices. You can crawl in a hole of anger, frustration, sadness and pain OR you can take a look at how your lifestyle is affecting your fertility. You can choose to take the Doctor’s GRIM diagnosis (after all who am I and what do I know?) or you can stand up to your fear, and say like I did that your NOT going to give up until you have laid bare every. single. thing. Within your control.
Some of you will read this and say. I can’t. It’s too hard. Maybe deep down inside you don’t want to think that the choices you are making on the daily are affecting your fertility. Your wrong. But because it will take work and self-growth you will take a different path. In the long run you may have a happy ending, but I believe you will always wonder. What if?
Some of you will read this and say. She couldn’t have had all that wrong with her (see my bio) and still have four children. In your mind you will call me a liar. In your mind you will dismiss me. Off to the next doctor you will go until you have emptied your bank account. At the end of that empty bank account may or may not be a baby. For so many there is nothing but empty promises and empty arms (and to add insult to injury a “I told you so” from the doctors who kept cashing the checks).
I’m not that unique. There are many, many of us out there who are telling our story of healing. For us, that story ended with baby(s). In my deepest heart of hearts, I want that for you too. As someone who was given NO treatment options, and NO hope outside of donor eggs I had to learn how to change, heal and listen to my body. I want that kind of healing for you too! I started with my diet. Not a “diet” but a hard look at really how “good” the things I was eating were in terms of feeding my body. I took things out. I added things in. I started to feel better. Change is never easy, but always worth it. Here’s that first step. Are you ready to get started?
5 Things to Remove from Your Life to Help Your Fertility TODAY
Pregnant and Quarantined …
A New Mom Guide to bringing home baby during Covid-19
If you’re a mom to be or a mom- to -be again during this crazy time let me first say I’m so sorry that this special time in your life has this lens on it. Pregnancy and childbirth are exhausting and stressful enough without having to deal with toilet paper shortages and not being able to leave the house. That being said I thought I would put together some strategies for you to put in place before baby arrives. This is not a “stock up on extra diapers” list because if you can, I know you will. This is to replace the meals that might have been delivered to you or the takeout you might have been able to pick up. This is suggestions for replacing what help you might have received from extended family or friends with some practical solutions. I tailored most of this list toward a mom who might be breastfeeding. I have learned allll about food sensitivities during breast feeding my four boys so the suggestions and recipes that I have listed are geared toward reducing breast milk reaction by limiting dairy and soy, as well as tons of tomato products. If you’re on the fence about breastfeeding, now would be the perfect time to decide. It will save you tons of money and you won’t have to worry about tracking down a special formula or running out.
- Prep food as much as possible. Click HERE for the top 10 clean eating foods to stock your fridge/freezer with even if space is at a premium.
- Make a list for the outside of your freezer of the items that you are pre-made and how many of them there are. Cross them off as you consume them.
- LABEL! Label your freezer bag items with contents and with cooking instructions. That way if you are able to catch a nap while baby is sleeping then someone (your partner or family) can easily step in and help. There’s nothing worse than asking a friend or partner to get you something and then having to get up and get it yourself because they can’t find it.
- Reduce the number of items in your home that can cause respiratory issues especially in newborns. Don’t burn candles or spray disinfectants (like Lysol) that can have warning labels on them about spraying around kids. Use cleaners that are plant based and non-toxic to reduce fumes. More info here www.ewg.org or THINK DIRTY APP. If you use essential oils make sure they are labeled for topical use as well as for the diffuser (your lungs have 2x the surface area of the skin on your body)
- Support your body. Drink plenty of water. If you don’t already, consider adding a quality refrigerated probiotic to your daily routine. In the US most women are routinely given a course of IV antibiotics during their delivery. Make sure it has as many strains as possible. Here’s the one I recommend Life9.
- Change your air filter in your home or apartment to maximize efficiency and reduce allergens.
- If your having a difficult time finding hand sanitizer consider making some ahead of time. Here’s a recipe I like HERE
- If you have older children that you’ll be caring for also, put together “treat bags” or “boredom buster bags” with their toys. Nothing is more appealing to a kid than a toy that’s been put away and then magically appears again. Also, you can make a quiet bag with stickers, bubbles, markers or a new small toy that they only get when baby is sleeping.
- Every mom needs these two things in their life: A humidifier and an essential oil diffuser. There are so many things that you, baby, or your older kids might experience over the first few weeks that having these items on hand would be so helpful. Some examples are stuffy noses, sleeping) Again, make sure you use essential oils that are labeled for topical use as well as the diffuser. click here
- Treat yourself. Make sure to stock up on a few things around that make you feel special. Whether that’s a favorite treat, magazine, flowering plant, or a new pair of fuzzy socks do something nice for yourself.
The bottom line is, do anything and everything to prepare ahead and then give yourself and your partner grace. Under normal circumstances this is a difficult time let alone a once in a 500 year event... XOXO Erica
Top 10 ways you can support your immune system during Flu season
***and Support your body naturally if your ALREADY sick***
SO many people have been posting about how they’re coming down with the flu or worried about catching something that’s going around. Did you know that there actually a ton that you can do to support your immune system?
Epsom salt is now my number one go to if I or my family start feeling under the weather. Get the biggest bag they have. This is your new best friend. “Scented” salts contain synthetic fragrance so stay away from them. You add an amount to a warm bath (see packaging for amount by weight instructions) and soak 40 minutes. The first 20 minutes are for detox and the second 20 minutes are for mineral absorption. If you have a fever or your little one does one of the best ways I’ve found to support the bodies response to this is by adding a little lavender and lemon essential oil to the salt before running the water. Be sure to add the oils to the salts first. Oil + water= floating oils, and we don't want that!
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Colloidal silver is amazing at helping boost the immune system. Heard the saying “born with a silver spoon in their mouth”? The origin of this saying has to do with the health of the child (as well as the wealth). Even way back then they knew silver helped the immune system. This type of hydrolyzed silver has anti-microbial properties and has been used for over 2000 years internally and topically. Learn more here https://sovereignsilver.com/silver101/. By the way, looks like water and is tasteless so great if your little one (or big) is uncooperative.
Eat perfect every day and always organic? Me either. This is why probiotics are my #1 recommended product to make a dramatic impact on your immune system health. All fresh foods, organic or not contain a certain amount of pesticides. Pesticides act as an antibiotic in your gut killing off good bacteria that you need to support your immune system. Probiotics aren’t created equal. Choose a refrigerated probiotic with as many different strains as possible. You can find more info here https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/pick-right-probiotic#
Elderberry syrup has been used for medicine dating as far back as the ancient Egyptians. It’ super easy to make if you have time. I recommend sourcing certified organic elderberries to avoid harmful chemicals. Here’s some sciency about how it kills viruses if you’re into that.
CLICK HERE for my Elderberry Syrup Recipe
Arnica or Arnica Montana leaf is a great substitute to have on hand for synthetic analgesics. It come as teeny tiny pellets or you can get it in a topical cream or gel. My dentist often gives this after a procedure to help with bleeding and swelling.
There’s tons of research on using local honey for sinus related conditions and seasonal allergies. This is also great to have on hand for making elderberry syrup or mixed with essential oils for a “tea”. For little ones with scratchy throats this sometimes does the trick. Remember never to give honey to a child under 1.
Essential oil diffusers are popping up everywhere, and for good reason! They work amazingly well for a mirid of purposes. For instance, a young child with a stuffy nose or someone in your house having a hard time sleeping. They work by adding a small amount of water and a few essential oils to the air. Make sure you get a diffuser big enough for the room and a run time length to suit your needs.
Now that you have an essential oil diffuser you need essential oils! Again, EO are popping up everywhere. BE cautious! Most essential oils that you can buy at major retailers contain only 5% essential oil. Look for oils that are labeled for topical use and ingestion, and always be sure to read the label.
A warm mist humidifier works by putting moisture back into the air. This can be so helpful for a croupy kid or baby, especially at night. You might not use this one a ton, but when you need it you’ll thank me for having it on hand.
No one likes a stuffy nose and kiddo’s especially have a hard time clearing their airways. That’s why its so great to have a little PLAIN nasal saline on hand to irrigate their nose. This $2 bottle might mean the difference between a good night’s sleep or none at all.
I hope these tips help get you started on your wellness journey. Until next time.
Health and Blessings! xoxo Erica
Shopping list
- Epsom Salt-plain
- Colloidal silver
- Probiotics
- Elderberry Syrup-
- Arnica tablets and topical gel
- Local Honey
- Essential oil diffuser
- Pure Essential oils that are labeled for topical use. Top picks are Thieves, lemon, lavender, peppermint, frankincense, raven and panaway.
- Warm mist humidifier
- Nasal Saline