The Nest : Wellness

"Mommy and me yoga class"

Natural, Organic, Homeopathic, Simple...I know these words get thrown around ALL the time and I also know that they are sometimes labeled as fads or "not necessary". I can't even tell you how many times I've heard " I grew up eating velveeta, margarine, and spam and I'm fine!" Or "Oh I grew up sitting on the couch, watching a lot of TV and I'm fine!" I think I've even said it myself a time or two. Well "fine" is not optimal. If buying organic and using less chemically rich products means I have a chance at being a little bit healthier, I'll take it!

So I've compiled a list of a few simple changes I've made to make my daughter's life-and mine- a little more simple and much healthier.

1. I grew up on Gerber ...and I'm fine. However, I have chosen to invest in a company that specializes in organic superfood for babies. Happy Family makes the only baby cereal that is enriched with DHA, Choline and Probiotics. DHA and Choline are key in promoting brain and eye health. Also, as far as her other meals, we use as much organic produce as is available and stick to primarily veggie blends. I have some recipes at the bottom of my page.

2. Ditch the wipes for number one! I realize that this one may cause some small *gasps but I hardly wipe Ella's bum if it's just a wet diaper. Urine is naturally sterilizing and rarely irritates skin. Wiping with baby wipes constantly can actually cause more irritation. What I do is use small amounts of baby powder or give it a minute to air dry, and Ella has never had any kind of diaper rash. With the exception of when she was younger and I did use desitin to heal what was just chaffing but it caused her to get little bumps! If anything, like chaffing or irritation occurs, aquaphor is your best bet!

3. Essential Oils! I am especially stoked about this one (which I have yet to even order) because I can use them too! Young living essential oils has a children's line specifically targeted to aid in the comfort of your little babes.

Blends include

-GeneYus
-Owie
-Bite Bustergz
-TummyGize
-SniffleEase
-SleepyIze
This Collection is a must to any parent practicing homeopathic healing

4. Exercise for me. Entertainment for her. I try to squeeze in a lengthy jog every evening, especially if miss fussy pants makes an appearance. It's a family friendly activity that everyone takes part in. It's a dream scenario, dogs, baby, and momma are all in sync for the hour and everyone is doing their part. Ella's being to view the foreign scenery, relax, and the enjoy the ride. The dogs are on a mission to enjoy all the freedom and variety of being out N' about, and I am enjoying the sweat and sore muscles. It's therapeutic for everyone.

5. Go outside. Being active and happy outdoors leads to happier lives rich with endorphins and good stories. I am hoping that Ella will adopt a love for nature, activity, and adventure outdoors if she witnesses the way I make an effort to do things outside. Just the other night I jogged towards titlow and down to the beach. It was just before sunset, so I didn't have much time before it was too dark to be safe jogging home but for those 5 minutes of rest I wheeled my beast of a stroller down to the rocky beach, let the dogs roam, took Ella out and sat by the edge of the water. Even though she was wrapped in her blanket, I could feel her shaking and kicking her arms and legs out of excitement. The waves rolling in and out, her eyes scanning the nearby shore in awe and joy. It was so beautiful and such a special moment, I would've let her down but those rocks would've found their way from the palm of her hand straight to her mouth. I love; even the shortest amount of time outdoors with my little one.