February 22nd, 2022 [2/22/22]

Wow... Today is suppose to be a magical day in the world. due to the repetitive numbers of today's date. But honestly everyday feels magical to me. Since July I've be nurturing a child in my body. Things have not been ideal as far as my birthing plan and the ideal delivery I wanted to have. Since I am planning on relaunching for the second time with an emphasize on MOMMY & ME YOGA; I wanted to take some time to share my pregnancy experience and some of the ups and lessons I've learned during my weeks of perinatal.

1. A lot of the struggles I encountered could have been avoided due to proper hydration. WATER and more WATER has been critical during my entire pregnancy to avoid cramping and sharp pains in my belly and cervix.

2. Heating pads are your best friend. If you have decided to work for the duration of your pregnancy, I strongly recommend investing in one. If you have an outlet at your workspace you can use it periodically to increase blood flow and circulation in areas that are giving you concerns.

3. Getting comfortable while you sleep - another big one especially during my 3rd trimester. I like to use one of the rectangular throw pillow to place in between my knees.

4. Getting outside this was hard for me because I was working three 12hr shift that were overnight and getting my full hours of rest during the day before going back into work. 15 to 30 minutes of sunlight, wind, and even some chill is guaranteed improve the well-being of your mental health, mood, and increase positivity. This could be an active participating by walking around your neighborhood [my favorite place is the mall] or extremally passive by taking your shoes off and sitting in the grass or a chair.

5. Seek professional help if you need someone to talk to; having a support system is important as well. But knowing there are people who are professionally training to handle your experience bring a sense of relief knowing you're not alone and there are other birth givers who are in your predicament.

6. Spend time with your significant other - I understand everyone's relationship dynamic is extremally different and/or unique. If you have that opportunity to bond intimately with your significant other please make it a priority for the BOTH of you.

7. Attending doctors appointments by myself were very comforting because I was able to keep my privacy high and the judgement low. When carrying a baby there's tons of joy end excitement that comes with it but, I felt I was able to be completely honest with my OBGYN about the changes my body were going through without having someone [especially someone I love] judge me.

8. Don't forget about your friends. Yes, the excitement is overwhelming. The changes in your body are overwhelming. The dynamic of your relationship is changing. You are learning and literally growing!!! Make it a necessity to maintain those relationships you had prior to conceiving because when it's nap time I'm sure seeing a familiar face or hearing an adult voice will lift your spirits.

9. Although I HATED working through my pregnancy it was super beneficial for my overall mental health! And it gave me an opportunity to still have a source of income while preparing for our child to get here instead of stressing about my expenses..

10. The moments while baby is in your belly take time to learn about personal childhood trauma and generational hardships associated with childrearing practices. If you're interested in creating a new and authentic approach towards loving your little one its going to take a whole lot of rethinking and patience that you are capable of providing. Take the steps needs to be the most healed version of yourself to raise a competent and confident child.