My son can’t say his T’s, P’s and S’s. At first we just thought it was normal until they discovered a tongue tie on his baby sister at 1 month old. I had a horrific time breast feeding both him and his sister in the beginning.
I spent weeks in agony thinking oh this is normal. Both children got underweight their first week and it really scared us. I thought ‘I’ wasn’t producing the milk when really they weren’t able to latch and suck like they should.
This video was taken at Natural Family Chiropractic with Pediatric specialist Dr. Meghan Van Loon. Dr. Van Loon was my instructor and is a world renowned expert in Pediatrics. She has helped thousands understands and evaluates these common infant issues.
Watch the video below to understand more about Tongue Ties also called Anklyoglossia:
If you are in the Central NY area I highly recommend the following practitioners.
and Pediatric Dentist Dr. Lawrence Kutlow
We made the trip to see Dr. Kutlow a week after we were diagnosed. He evaluated her and performed the surgery the same day. Here is a picture of Sarah Grace before the surgery and after she looked the same.
The actual procedure takes about 10 minutes. The after care is more in depth and I found it a little difficult, but something you have to do.
Did it make a difference? Yes. I was able to nurse with more ease although it still took about 4 more weeks to get really comfortable with it. I choose not to solely nurse but that was my choice for my life and health.
I am very grateful for my friends on Facebook who suggested this might be the case. My midwife felt awful that she didn’t catch it, but I wasn’t upset about that. I do suggest if you are really struggling with nursing that you get a second opinion if your doctor or midwife doesn’t feel there is a problem. Go on Dr. Kutlow’s page and look at the video for diagnosing a tongue tie.
Sarah actually had both a tongue tie and a upper lip adhesion. After the surgery she was able to get her mouth fully around the breast instead of just biting. I also recommend you get a lactation consultation and help afterwards where someone comes into your home and helps you and the baby improve your breast feeding groove. Because like Sarah, your baby might be used to biting to get the milk which can continue to hurt.
I hope this helps you. Please share with all the mommas and going to be mommas you know.
For your Total Wellness,
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
I just wanted to take a minute to thank you personally for all your prayers and positive thoughts throughout my pregnancy and birth. After two miscarriages sometimes your heart and mind become a little hardened or fearful, but I didn’t have any of that (almost) after knowing this little miracle was still with us back in August. You all have been such an amazing support and upliftment and when I was overdue your words on Facebook gave me strength and encouragement. I appreciate you and am honored you are in my life.
The Miracle of Sarah Grace
(don’t worry this is not a birth video just me sharing with you about her birth)
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
I was cleaning my office the other day and got this download about one of the things that I do. See I help clients get healthy through wellness coaching, education available on my website and classes I give. But another thing that I do and am actually really good at is helping my associates create MOMMY MONEY.
What is Mommy Money? Well it is an extra income that can be used how the Mommy wants including everything from paying for a health care program, pay off debt, vacations and much more. I work with more than 35 women directly and support over 200 who earn a monthly Mommy Money income.
As a mom myself I only want the best for my kids. For me I choose to have cleaner foods, grass fed beef, organic foods, and excellent childcare. I also like to have monthly and sometimes weekly pampering sessions of massage, a pedicure or a Raindrop Therapy. All these things cost money and if you live on a fixed income, it is difficult to spend money on these ‘extras’. So having some monthly ‘Mommy Money’ can change all of that including our health and happiness.
And then there are some moms like my friend Joleen who found herself as a single mom and in need of extra income to support her family. She was able to pay her monthly rent payment with her Mommy Money. My associate Kathryn wanted to homeschool her son. She was able to replace the income from her job of 32 years and stay home and train up her son. And then there are associates who found themselves over 50 with no retirement income and are now in a better place financially for their future.
Mommy Money can make life easier, more fun and more rewarding. How about you? Do you make Mommy Money? Would you like to start earning some Mommy Money every month?
If you have a passion for helping people, improving the health of your family and others, you are looking for a proven and successful system to bring extra income into your home, and want more fun in your life then contact our office at info@starrhealth.com or 315-883-1943 and request an associate to contact you to see if our Mommy Money Program is a good fit for you.
For your Family’s Total Wellness including Financial Success,
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
the Total Wellness Doc and Mom
P.S. Do you like to play tennis? Go check out my husband’s blog at http://starrhost.com/blog/ about tennis and online business. It’s cute, but I guess I am biased.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
With this past Sunday being Mother’s Day I wanted to celebrate with all the women who have blessed me via the Internet with their mommy tips. Sharing knowledge and things you have learned through trial and error of parenting and using natural remedies for health care can help hundreds or even thousands of moms if we share through the Internet.
Below are tips and techniques from Total Wellness moms. Some of them will encourage you, give you some new tools and some might even make you cry!
Enjoy!
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
the Total Wellness Doc and Mom
*****************************
I have used lavender and eucalyptus since Jamie was an infant. Lavender to sleep and eucalyptus to help with stuffy noses.
My tip is: There will be many people who will give you advice… Think of a standard response like “Thank you, I will take that into consideration.” And be ready to say it every time
Just do the best you can with what knowledge you have, when you hunger for a different way, the teacher will always appear. I learned this the hard way when I was a mommy to my 6th baby and I didn’t want to do something the doc recommended. I searched and found alternatives
Tip: deep breathes and remember the days may be long but the years are short!
Cut yourself some slack. No mom is perfect. No parenting “style” is perfect. Just love your babies and give them your best. Oh, and nurse your baby when YOU feel like you should. Regardless of when a book/friend/internet says you should. Go with your gut. (ok, so that’s more than 1 tip, but, you know…) :0)
The best investment of your time and resources is in your child(ren). The returns are priceless.
Nap when your baby naps:-)!!!! Those dishes will be there when you’re rested, or hey daddy will probably do them!!!!!!
Fennel to increase milk production for breast feeding mother
Start chore teaching at a young age so the teenage years are easier!
Due to our lovely New York State weather many children have been getting sick this year. We all have different essential oils we use. I use nutmeg, clove and frankincense. Putting them on your feet and spine is fantastic, but did you know your child’s thymus has a lot to do with the immune system working properly. Place your oils of choice on the thymus area. Dilute according to the oils label and then some with younger children. This method works sooo much faster. Amazing for a child battling MRSA.
DIY Natural Safe Sunscreen for you and the little ones: 1 ounce Coconut oil (spf 4-10), 1 ounce Raspberry Seed oil (spf 28-50), 10 drops Carrot Seed Essential Oil (spf 38-40) 5 drops Lavender. Warm over hot water until melted. Stir and use all summer long!
My best mommy tip is to arm yourself with essential oils and stay away from pharmaceuticals! Keep your family healthy naturally.
Don’t wish away the days~ love and appreciate the stage you are at. When my children were younger, I found myself longing for days when they could dress themselves and be more independent. Now that they are and the toddler days are long gone, I find myself wishing for the days when we could just play and play and push them in the stroller and my kisses fixed everything. Be grateful for each stage. Don’t wish away the days, because they will come and go and you will have been too busy thinking of different times and miss the “last’ times. We all look for the “firsts”~ first steps, first words. Don’t be too busy to miss the “lasts” ~ last time I was strong enough to hold my son, the last time he crawled up in my lap… TREASURE EVERY DAY!!! It is a gift from God!! Celebrate each day.
Mommy Tip: Avoid tubes in the ears. Mommy Beth took my advice and placed 3 drops of Melrose in palm of her hand; rolled Q-tip in the oil and swabbed gently opening to ear canal and applied Melrose to mastoid bone. She alternated with Lavender every 2-4 hours. Broken eardrum completely healed in 2 days (Confirmed by pediatrician).
Smirk, smile, laugh… try to remember to take each moment of the day as you can and treasure the moments before they slip by. Our “go-to-oil” for my daughter is wintergreen.
Don’t Stress the little things my GrandMother used to tell me, she was right! Life is to short enjoy the kids and use Essential oils like Stress Away, Peace and Calming, Lavender and many others that work.. Enjoy each day with a Smile and Loving heart.
Having lost my son at 15, my advise to moms with children driving them crazy is: enjoy it while you can. They won’t be there forever.
Puppy moms try peace and calming for thunderstorms and fireworks. Put a couple drops in your palm and rub it on the bottom of paws. My poodle asks for his oil when there is thunder.
I just learned MRSA does not like RC! Success 100% now all cuts get RC.
Thanks! That’s kind! My tip might be this; love your children and they will love you back. Love is the great healer. I used lavender for nearly everything but now that’s all so I got to use the next ones I guess.
Remember that you are the right mother for your child!
Make a Thieves oil spritzer (with distilled water) to keep your family well. I made one and sprayed all through the house all winter/early spring when the flu was going around. Nobody in our household got the flu! Actually, the worst thing any of us got was a bit of a runny nose and low-grade fever (and the fever lasted less than 24 hours)! And, that’s even with a little one in preschool!
I wish these oils were around when my children were small, but now I get to use them on my grandchildren, last month my 16mo.old granddaughter was stuffed up and coughing, I showed her mama how to apply Lavender to her feet and I also diffuse Thieves in a vaporizer, and made a muslin cloth and dab Thieves on it and hang it in the corner of her bedroom. And has made a world of difference. Now her mommy puts it in her closet now to.
The BEST mommy tip I have ever used is peppermint and DiGize.When my son Luke was in 8th grade, he would get migraine headaches and I would be called to pick him up from school. We would come home, use the peppermint on his forehead and neck, and the DiGize over his tummy to stop the intense vomiting that came with the migraine. We found out(through our association with YL people) that is was the soda and sugary foods in the machines at school. I started homeschooling him in 9th grade. Glad that is over!
Be sure to use enzymes as your kids get bigger and on solid foods. They are so important to keeping their digestion working well since we generally don’t get enough enzymes from our diets.
Thyme and purification on ears and purification on bone behind ear and jawbone for ear infection then put thieves on feet, then for the fever lemon diluted on back and chest with some peppermint to cool the body
When it comes to your children trust your heart over the advise of others. God gave us intuitive knowledge about our children. Pray and trust.
If you have tips to share, please comment below. If you would like receive our weekly Total Wellness Newsletter with more great tips and natural wellness, parenting, nutrition, and more be sure you register below too.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Well things are moving right along in our home. Baby girl Sarah Grace is gaining weight, Joshua is learning to be a good big brother, and my husband and I are learning to be parents of 2 kids. I don’t think those lessons will ever end but it is extremely rewarding and amazing.
I have had many requests about how I was able to ‘get things moving’ since I was 2-3 weeks overdue with Sarah. And yes it was an essential oil remedy and lots of God that came to my rescue and got this baby out GRACEFULLY.
In today’s article I share about what I did to GET THINGS MOVING. Enjoy and pass on the information to those you know are pregnant. It may help them avoid a C-Section or worse.
For your Total Wellness,
Dr. Mary Starr
The Total Wellness Doc and Mom
**************************************
Moving Right Along
Many of you have asked and now I will answer your questions about how I got my labor moving along. I was overdue with my little girl at least 2 weeks, possibly 3 weeks. I asked your advice on my Facebook page about tips to help my labor get started. Here were some of your suggestions and I actually did most of them.
Eat spicy food, a hotdog with relish, hot fudge sundae, Mexican food, drink Castor oil, get a massage, reflexology, acupuncture, chiropractic, go for a bumpy ride, walk a long distance, have sex.
But after 3 weeks of doing most all of these suggestions it was an essential oil remedy that made things get moving. It’s called the Jump Start Technique developed by Dr. LeAnne Deardeuff. And basically for less than $50 I was able to use Young Living’s Sclaressence essential oil to help my body go into labor.
On Sunday April 14th I saw the cutest new baby in church and my heart knew it was close but my body not so much. So after a big meal at Five Guys restaurant we went for a scenic bumpy drive and I started my Sclaressence regimen. On Monday I did the regimen again and went walking on a beautiful spring night followed by a hot fudge sundae. Tuesday morning I took another dose, started feeling small contractions around 7:30 am and went for a slow walk on my treadmill for 10 minutes. I had lunch, talked to my girlfriend at noon and finished up some loose ends and by 3pm I knew this was it.
Sarah was born at 8:22pm on Tuesday April 16th. I also have some great stories to share about the actual labor but I will share that in my next blog.
If you would like to know more about the Jump Start Technique please visit Dr. Leanne’s site at http://doctorleanne.com/pregnancy-course/. This program was a great investment and the tips I learned have been a total blessing to my clients and I. God Bless.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Wow what a whirlwind couple of weeks. I feel like I was just really pregnant and it was winter and now I have a 3 week old baby and it’s summer outdoors. Monday Sarah Grace had a procedure for her tongue tie. We are doing the rehab now and working on getting some better breast feeding sessions in. I have to remind myself patience patience patience and be grateful for what we have.
I wasn’t able to finish this great article I am working on with Dr. LeAnne Deardeuff on women’s health but since it’s Mother’s Day I want to send you a little article I wrote last year.
I know you will enjoy it. And I promise to get you some great content on women’s health this month too.
Also visit our Facebook page and drop a Mommy tip and you could win a bottle of Slique Weightloss essential oil.
Happy early Mother’s Day,
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
the Total Wellness Doc and Mom
***************************************
Mom is the Word: Honoring Our Mothers and the Women Who Influenced Us
As mothers, our heart’s desire is to provide a safe place, wisdom, good health and lots of love for our family. We are the influencers of the next generation. As a history buff, when I ponder on Mother’s Day and our roles, I think of strong faithful women of the Bible.
One woman who stands out is Ruth. She was caring, compassionate, faithful, a servant, overcame great odds, took great risks, and was rewarded by God.
Last week we ran a special post on Life’s Journey with the Women of Our Lives. We are honored to have so many men and women share about the special woman of their lives. In honor of Mother’s Day, here are some of the stories shared.
Mary Simmons
Want to thank God for my mom; I would not know how to cook, clean and be a good wife if not for all the years of teaching and training. Thank you for never giving up on me, for homeschooling me all those years and being a great role model.
Sally Franz
I give thanks for three women who have influenced my life, besides my mother and grandmother who adopted me and made me feel so special in this world teaching me unconditional love.
The first was a church worker, who served at the university chapel where I got my first Master’s degree in 1970. She taught me so much about the fact that we are all God’s children who have gifts to share for the benefit of the world. No one is excluded, no matter their limitations.
The second one is my wonderful mentor and sponsor Patricia, who has accepted me and taught me so much about living that I had no clue. She too has accepted me without limitation and has taught me to reach beyond my boundaries to seek new horizons and reach out to others in all places to share the news of natural health and wholeness. I am grateful to God for these women being in my life.
Jay Carter
My grandmother Leona Delk had many qualities that I admired but her top 3 were her faith in Jesus, she never complained no matter how dire her circumstances, and she was giving and kind to everyone.
I never heard her ever complain. She raised 8 children and some of her grandchildren mostly on her own with very little. In the early years they were so poor the families from the poor side of town would bring them food. Yet even though she had little she would give and share what she had.
I remember as kids there was this man we all thought was crazy who lived in the woods. My grandmother would walk a couple of miles and bring food to him and make sure he was okay even though everyone told her not too. Years later she was contacted by his family to thank her for looking after him as he had been traumatized in the Vietnam War. She never went to church but was one of the most faithful, Christ like, people I know.
Ara Karlberg
Want to thank my Grandmother for being such an important influence in my life. She was there when others couldn’t be. She instilled in me a strong work ethic (she worked by choice until she was 86), my love of reading and writing (she was a Librarian), my thirst for history and genealogy (she traced our paternal side of the family back to Whales 736AD)! She was powerful, brilliant and fair. Not a day goes by that I don’t feel her presence and hear her guiding me!
Mary Ellen Fava
She’s my neighbor, my friend, neither of us have our mothers anymore. She’s 20 years older than me, but as young and beautiful in looks, thought and ideas. I turn to her for more than I have turned to my mother and she is always there for respect, guidance and love. I am blessed to have such a wonderful woman in my life. Wish it would last forever.
I wish her Happy mothers day more than all. Thank you Gaye, and brightest Blessings to you for eternity. She has bought more in my life than I can ever expect from one person. How lucky am I.
Debbie Twomey
The older we get the more women have touched our lives. First and foremost is my mother. What she taught me was strength and how to persevere. The most amazing lesson was her growth as a person that mirrored mine; she matured and changed as she learned lessons in life too.
My best friend Lorraine, who taught me that love can be unconditional and last a lifetime through the ups and downs. Ellen, who taught me that a kind and gentle spirit has a special place in this world and I was so lucky to have found this friendship at a time when I needed it most. The laughter we share is priceless.
And last but never least– Mary. The lessons, the gifts, the honor and respect are immeasurable. She has given me the gift of a new direction and promise in my life and opened my life and my heart to so many possibilities that had never seemed attainable. As a mentor she has gently pushed me forward when I would have been content to stagnate and as a friend she has been a shoulder, a confidant and an equal. Thank you to all of these women and the many more I have been lucky enough to have had in my life.
Claudia Looi
My mother taught me servanthood and honor. While my father was dying of cancer, I saw my mother serving him to the very end. In his pain and suffering, she comforted him, fed him, bathed and clothed him. As a little girl, I saw my mother honor my grandmother even when she was humiliated in front of relatives.
Theresa Chalone
Many, my mother, my grandmother, my cousin Franci, my beautiful daughter. But the one person who gave me spiritual influence was my Aunt Yolanda. These are my thoughts that were taken from her eulogy, at her funeral. It’s the best way I can explain how I greatly appreciated the deep, long lasting influence she had made in my life.
She was a wonderful, loving, devoted, kind, daughter, sister, mother and grandmother and a fabulous cook. To me she was all those things, but most importantly, she was my spiritual mentor, the epitome of a Godly and holy woman.
Whenever I would call and ask what she was doing, it was usually saying her rosary or reading her daily prayers, and when there was a crisis, we knew who to call to pray for us. Her prayers never ceased. Everything she did she did with love, and that love was the basis for her faithfulness to God.
She suffered great pain and numerous hospitalizations. But she knew that her suffering was not meaningless. Suffering doesn’t make people better; sometimes it makes them bitter, but not Aunt Yolanda. She never questioned her situation. I never saw her angry or bitter. She had many defeats at times, but she never dwelled upon her defeats. Instead she was courageous, faithful, hopeful, never complaining.
She was the one person who I could go to when my life turned upside-down. She had been there too, she knew how my heart ached, and she had felt the same pain. She taught me that no matter how bad things can get, no matter how much you have lost, that you never let go of your faith in God. He has a purpose for us all here on earth and you never question why.
In her deepest pain came the strong conviction of the presence and love of God. IN all her suffering she had joy, and we all know that joy is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of God. The bible tells us that suffering is in order that we might grow in grace…Aunt Yolanda was full of grace…
I have no doubt that God put a certain amount of iron in her soul to help her through all her trials. Aunt Yolanda desired to know Jesus and the power of his resurrection. She based her whole being on knowing Christ.
I believe that all the years she has had pain has brought her to a higher level up in heaven. We use to talk about how suffering so much was people’s gateway to heaven and I always told her that I was sure she would be sitting at God’s right hand, next to all our other departed family members.
Aunt Yolanda was a very special Aunt to me. She never judged me or anyone else. NO matter how old I was, or what kind of trouble I would get into, she never cast judgment, she just listened and if I needed a scolding she would give it to me, because she loved me.
I will never forget Aunt Yolanda, your courage, your faithfulness, devotion and kindness. It has been a privilege and honor to be her niece, to have learned from her, laughed and cried with her. Every year I would thank God for the birthday and Christmas celebrations we shared together. I will cherish all my memories of her.
Each Christmas I would give her a little angel to watch over her for the year. This year, I know she is with all those angels celebrating her arrival with them in Heaven.
Ellen Barbagallo OUR WINNER
The person I hold dearest to my heart is my Gramma & Grampa. They have been deceased for many years now as I am a grown adult with my own grandchildren and one great grandchild. My Gramma was always there for me as a child and I could always count on her and she never let me down. Whether with problems, happy occasions or just being there when I needed a place to live, she was always there to help and comfort me. She always will hold the largest portion of my Heart.
My Husband and children hold the 2nd portion of my heart and the third and final portion belongs to my Best Friend Forever, Debbie, who is the best friend I have ever had in my 67 years and this is why: A friend is a relative you make for yourself A friend is one who comes In when the whole world has gone Out There are big ships and small ships, but the best ship of all is Friendship A True friend is one who thinks you are a Good Egg, when you are Half-Cracked A true friend is one you can call at 4AM, or they can call you A true friend is one who gives a compliment and means it A true friend accepts us as we are, yet helps us to be what we should.
Debbie, you are all of this and more and I truly Love you.
Mother’s Day offers a time of reflection of the women in our lives, our mothers, being a mom and a woman.
Each of us have a story and we will be one of the stories that our children and grandchildren live to tell. Whether we are struggling or enjoying being a mother, we can empower each other to grow and expand our positive influence.
I want to invite you to join me on this journey of motherhood, to celebrate our roles, to act in love and honor and to create total wellness for our family and ourselves. Leave me a comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
We are all busy but it’s no excuse my coach said. We all can find a way to wrap the water around the marbles. She explained our busy life is a jar of marbles that is full. We can’t add any more marbles but we can pour water in.
Water in this case was the personal and professional development I needed to grow my business. Back then she encouraged me to use my drive time, shower time, dish doing time and TV time to listen to trainings on tapes. (Am I dating myself?) Well she was right, listening to those tapes over and over again in the background not only taught me, but encouraged me and raised my skill and eventually my income.
It works.
Today’s tips will help you too especially if you find your jar is full and the only thing you can do is pour water in your jar.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
The Total Wellness Doc and Mom
www.thetotalwellnessdoc.com
*******************************
Time Management Tips for Busy Moms
Sometimes busyness and being occupied with the doing of things each day for our kids, home and work or business leave us without any time for ourselves or for our own personal growth.
In this video I will share with you one important time management tip for busy moms that not only will help you think more positively, it will also motivate you to be the person God called you to be and not live a life of regret or dread.
We only have 24 hours. Here is a chart showing how American adults spend their time:
When you look at the chart, it shows we really do not have any time for personal development, reading or self care. Unless you take into consideration the hours spent on Leisure and sports, Eating and drinking and Others.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans spend an average of 2.8 hours per day watching TV.
Busy mommas, let’s be creative in the way we use our time. Please share this post with busy moms and dads that you know. Let us know what you learned from this video and blog post. Remember, we are in control of our destiny.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
If you are like me I don’t like wasting time or going to multiple places just to get necessities for the family. So I found a way to get the things I need in my home without having to travel.
In fact with a little planning, the amount of time you will spend can be less than 5 minutes! That’s right…less than 5 minutes.
Today’s blog post highlights two short videos about online ordering and being prepared for those times when you will not be able to get out of the house. Whether you are a busy mom with young children or a busy dad with a career and business, these tips will help you stay more focused on things that are important and still serve your family’s needs well.
Let’s watch the video now. You will save money and time and stay healthier with just these two videos.
Let me know how these videos have helped you. Please leave me a comment below after watching.
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
The Total Wellness Doc and Mom
www.thetotalwellnessdoc.com
*********************************
Busy Pregnant Momma Shopping Prep Tips
To a busy pregnant momma or momma with young children or anybody at all, time is equal to money. But the combination of saving time and money can really sweeten our days.
Most of us find ourselves compromising on the food we eat and the things we do for our family because of the lack of time or the need to save extra cash. What if there are ways for us to do both, that is saving money and time and still being able to get quality food for our family each day?
I have found a way to do so by shopping for quality food and household products online with two trusted website. Best yet, I get free shipping and handling and my groceries are at my doorstep in 48 hours.
Here are 2 short videos I did on online ordering and being prepared for those times when you will not be able to get out of the house.
The first video is Busy Momma’s Prep Tips For Online Ordering where I will show you websites that I use to buy quality food like coconut oil, gluten-free products and many more and how I save on shipping, time and money.
I will also show you the products I purchase and why we use or consume these products at our home. How these products keep us healthy as well.
My second video shows you how to stock up with household cleaners like dish detergent and a book to use to be chemical free at home even when you are a busy pregnant momma or busy momma with young children.
Enjoy the videos and please share with other busy mommas that you know and care. Let me know what you learned from these videos by commenting below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
When I had Joshua my mother in law flew in about 2 weeks before he was born. She helped us get organized, get the rooms ready and most of all cooked and froze about 12 meals for us. It was great.
As I am becoming a little more domestic or should I say as I am hanging out with some domestic friends like www.betterlivingessentials.com mom, Mary Simmons. I have learned that you can actually prep up to 20 freezer meals including shopping and cooking all in one day.
Really… with the use of a crockpot and freezer there are ways to prepare for times when you won’t be able to cook way in advance for many days. It involves planning and preparation but it is doable.
Here is a video tip about freezer food. Go to my website to view it.
Enjoy,
Dr. Mary Starr Carter
The Total Wellness Doc and Mom
***********************************
Busy Pregnant Momma Prep Tip: Preparing and Freezing Food
Preparing meals ahead of time is ideal for a busy pregnant momma and any momma who has young children. It sounds difficult but it is possible. There are books devoted to ways to prepare, cook and freeze meals.
In this video Busy Pregnant Momma Prep Tip – Freezer and Food, I will show you how I am preparing meals for my family during this busy season of my life.
Here are six things you need to get started:
One: A meal plan that includes favorite foods, balanced diet and easy to freeze food.
Two: Shopping list that includes healthy ingredients and enough ingredients for preparation. Combination of ingredients and buying meat, vegetables and other ingredients in bulk can save you time and money.
Three: Make sure you have space in your freezer and that your freezer is in workable condition.
Four: Get functional containers of all sizes for storing your prepared food. In the video I share which containers I use to freeze my food.
Five: Have the whole family or good friends involved in preparation, cooking and freezing process.
Six: Keep all your prepared food safe, labeled and packaged well. You don’t want to consume stale or contaminated food.
Enjoy the video and let me know how it has helped you. Please comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
If you are a mom who is eight months pregnant and have children below the age of five, reading humorous stories and watching movies can lighten us up. Recently without much thought, I asked a question on my Facebook Page and received some humorous responses. The funniest thing about them is they are TRUE!
You know you’re eight months pregnant when….
1. You spend 30 minutes to an hour a day drooling over all the delicious recipes and foods on Pinterest.
2. Sneezing and Coughing now require Depends.
3. Putting your socks and shoes on now takes some creativity.
4. You take naps on the toilet cause you’re always there.
5. You have cankles by the end of the day.
6. You know where every restroom is anywhere you go!
7. When your walk turns into a waddle.
8. When you’re always ready for a nap and glowing!
9. When you scrub every bathroom like a superhuman deep cleaning everywhere so then you can maintain it as you head towards your ninth month! Thank God for Thieves cleaner the non-toxic nesting powerhouse!
10. You can’t find a comfortable position to sleep unless you confiscate all the pillows, to support you legs, back and belly.
11. You pass gas that sounds like a machine gun when you laugh.
12. You are always breathing like you just finished a marathon!
13. You can’t see how bad your pedicure now looks.
14. Belly Dancing has a new meaning.
15. You can’t sleep on your tummy, but really, really want to.
16. And you know you are 8 months pregnant if you are peeing pants laughing reading this.
Do you have any mommy humor and tips for a healthy pregnancy? Please share below. We love hearing from you.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
I’m a mom of a two year old and carrying a baby in my womb. Making a healthy meal could be a huge task when you have to juggle between business, home and being pregnant.
Who wants to labor in the kitchen after working, taking care of kids’ activities, laundry, cleaning everyday? One of the most convenient, least time consuming and easy ways to create a healthy meal for the whole family is through slow cooking.
Picture this: putting all the healthy ingredients in a pot, set the timer and temperature and the aroma fills your home all day. Mouth-watering stews are ready for you when you are up from a nap, walk or work, your supper is waiting for you. No cold food, but warm comfort food waiting for you to devour with your family.
Here are four reasons why slow cooker suppers are the best ways to cook for busy moms:
One: Save time
All you need is the preparation time of rinsing, cutting and chopping the ingredients and adding them all in the slow cooker. Select the number of hours for cook time and dinner will be ready before you know it.
Two: Save energy
It definitely uses less electricity than the conventional oven or stovetop.
Three: No spilling or burnt food
Have you seen my burnt toast lately? Even toasted bread gets burnt sometimes with busy moms who need to attend to little kid’s needs. Your food will not spill or burn when you use a slow cooker.
Four: Less cleaning
You are only using one pot, chopping board and a knife. There is less cleaning to do like several pots, utensils, plates and bowls to hold cut meat and vegetables. Slow cooking allows you to place all your ingredients into the cooker without the need for multiple plates and bowls to hold raw meat and uncooked vegetables.
Most importantly, the whole family gets a healthy meal without compromising on time and effort. I’ve got a healthy Butternut Squash Barley Risotto recipe from GoodHousekeeping.com that I would like to share with you.
The preparation time is only 15 minutes and 235 calories per serving. Here are the ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter (can be substituted)
2 shallots, thinly sliced
2 fresh thyme sprigs (can be substituted with dried thyme)
2 cups pearl barley
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 large butternut squash about 2 ½ pounds, peeled, seeded, cut into ½ inch cubes
Salt and pepper
1 oz. Parmesan cheese grated about 2/3 cups
2 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
Please get the entire recipe from the website.
A slow cooker could be a busy mom’s secret weapon for healthy homemade food. We have control on the type of ingredients we add into the pot and watch what we eat everyday. Do you have a slow cooking recipe to share? We would love to hear from you.
The Best Slow Cooker recipe wins a TOTAL WELLNESS special gift! Send us your recipe from November 8th – November 28th and the best tasting and healthiest recipe wins.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Will you be supercharged by sugar filled drinks and snacks this season or will it be filled with immune-boosting healthy drinks and snacks? There is no way we can totally eliminate sugar from our diet especially during this time of the year.
As you prepare your kids with costumes and treats to giveaway, I would like to share with you a video I did last year:
Read our article on Healthy Halloween Tips.
Like so many families, we want to be a great example to our children when it comes to the way we live and eat. Still, occasionally we don’t follow through. How about you? We give ourselves grace and room to improve each day.
I’ve found out the best way to stay and eat healthy is to have three meals and two to three snacks a day. This plan will help improve your mood, energy and overall healthy eating habits without room for binging.
Here are some smoothies and snack ideas for you:
I found this smoothie recipe online called Popeye Smoothie:
1 tbsp. honey or substitute Agave, Yacon Syrup, or a hint of Stevia
1 tsp. peanut butter or almond butter
1-cup strawberries
1 cup Greek yogurt plain
1 small banana
2 tbsp. ground almond or flax
2 cups spinach or kale or collards
A friend on Facebook, Anna Enders Noblit makes applesauce with Thieves essential oil. You can be creative and use Young Living essential oils with fruits and preparing healthy snacks.
For a creative way of using avocado and Young Living essential oils, check out Tara Rayburn’s website.
One of our readers, Claudia and her kids love Coconut-Pineapple smoothie (found in Family Circle Magazine July 2012 issue). Here is the recipe:
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (freeze for 3 hours)
1 17oz. coconut water (found in store, we use Vita Coco)
2 Chobani pineapple flavored Greek yogurt
1 cup sweetened coconut flakes (or unsweetened)
1 6oz. can pineapple juice
Fruits and vegetables are great snacks for kids and adults. Most store bought snacks are filled with high levels of sugar, trans fat, fats, sodium, additives, coloring, and chemicals and artificially flavored.
Huffington Post has a list of 12 worst Halloween candy and snacks we absolutely must avoid. They are flavored Tootsie Rolls, Smarties, Good and Plenty, Candy Corn, Dots, Now and Later, Strawberry Hard Candy, Bazooka Bubble Gum, Wax Bottle, Hershey’s Symphony, Necco Wafers and Mary Janes. (Source: Huffington Post October 17, 2012)
Do you have one of those in your pantry ready to give out as treats? Think again. As much as we want our family to eat healthy, what we give out to our neighborhood children is important too. Many of our children are living dangerously because of unhealthy snacks and drinks.
All of us have a role to play when we give out treats. If have a healthy recipe or treat to share go to my Facebook page and let me and our readers know what it is.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
During our recent vacation in Florida, my son had days full with playtime and playdates with his cousin Will. During the vacation we did some fun things with the kids including going to the beach, hanging out at a cool playground, going to a neat diner, and their favorite riding around my in laws’ property on the golf cart.
Watching the boys interacting and having fun reminds me of the importance of having regular weekend playtime and playdates for kids of any age. They are exploring the art of sharing, learning and having fun with each other.
Here are 5 important tips for a successful playtime:
One: Let them be kids
It’s important to have boundaries and let the other kids know those boundaries especially if the playdate is in your home. But some of us are too involved with our kids. When kids are not sharing, we interrupt and give our opinions right away, never giving them a chance to work things out. It is important to supervise playtime and step in when necessary. But kids are kids, let them learn the art of sharing and work things out on their own and have fun.
Usually their little disputes are over within minutes. If the behavior is “ugly” or the other kid’s habits are not a good influence then it’s important to re-think who you have regular playdates with.
Two: Have a plan
Having a planned playdate will help enhance kids’ time together. A playdate at the beach or local playground requires different planning and toys. Kids may become frustrated without proper toys at the beach.
I made the mistake of going to the beach without a shovel, swimsuit, or floatation devices. Luckily we had cars to play with and enough adults to hold on to each child while we played in the surf. It was fun but I “mom” ended up with wet shorts and when I needed to run into Walmart after the beach, I looked like I wet my pants…LOL!
Also have a backup plan incase things don’t go like you want. Keeping a stash of surprise toys, stickers, coloring books in the car or bringing to the playdate just in case is a good idea.
BONUS TIP: Don’t forget to pack your essential oil Mommy Kit. Joshie’s little body wasn’t used to the Florida environment. Lavender helped sunburn and Purification helped keep the bugs away.
Three: Snack and drinks
Remember when kids get together they can expend a lot of energy and need replenishment. Snack and drinks are important during playdates. They need to hydrate and refuel their little bodies.
Not all kids are alike. Knowing what your kid’s playdate likes and dislikes are important before the start of the playdate (if you are hosting and providing snacks and drinks.)
Healthy snacks can include fruits and nuts or cut vegetables, crackers and hummus. Sometimes having a variety is a good idea if you don’t know what the other children like. Interestingly Will, a picky eater, after hanging out with my son an “almost everything” eater started eating more diverse foods.
One of our favorite snacks was cut up peanut butter, banana sandwiches with Yacon syrup and a little Coconut oil blended in. They were delicious! Yacon is probably the best natural sweetener for you. It may be more costly than Agave and Honey but it really has more health benefits.
Four: Indoor physical activities
My son likes to run and jump A LOT. Will can play with cars for 30 minutes at a time. Joy another one of our playdate friends likes dressing up. A fun playdate that everyone can enjoy something is an indoor Play Place. These are great if weather does not permit outdoor activities, like here in Central NY most of Fall, Winter and some of Spring. I discovered a place here in Central New York called Kidz Club Indoor Play and Party Place. They have good deals and your child can play for a very reasonable price.
Although most indoor play places won’t let you bring your own food, if you or your child have food allergies, or really don’t want them eating processed foods, talk to the managers to see if they mind you bringing in some specific foods. Remember to patronize them for water and the things you can eat because like movie theaters, the majority of their profits come from food sales.
Although I don’t recommend not keeping an eye on your child, the Kidzplace has WiFi so bring your smart phone and you may be able to muti-task or go with a group of parents and take turns doing work.
Five: Time limit
There has to be a time limit in a playdate. Keep it short and sweet. An over extended playtime may create overly tired and cranky kids. We found this out the hard way on our way home from the beach; two tired little 2 year olds who missed their nap made the rest of the night not so fun.
Playtime is part of our kids’ development, learning and growing process. It is important to carve out time for playdates for our children. According to a USA Today article, since the 70s kids have lost an average of nine hours of free playtime a week. There is a playtime deficit.
Do you schedule playdates for your children? What type of activities do they like? Please share.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
To avoid boredom and listlessness, what do you do when the kids are home and it is raining or snowing outside? As a mom of an active two year old, I’m always looking for great ideas to occupy and spend quality time with my son.
With the help of some Facebook friends, here are 13 fun indoor things to do with little kids on a rainy or snowy day:
1. Scavenger Hunt
Get kids to look for all the blue, red and white crayons that you have hidden around the house with a timer or for the length of a song. Kids could run around the house looking for the crayons for hours. At the end a reward could be a snack time or small little gift.
2. Simon Says game
This idea came from Cristen Mulley Hammel. She suggested Simon Says game with red light, green light. Then get them to do jumping jacks.
3. Camping tent
Set up a tent, using a sheet over the table. Put a flashlight in there with some toys and snacks. Also make a trail using books or pillows laid next to each other. Let him hop on them like they are logs. This came from Aesha Adams-Robert of aeshaonline.com (read all about her blog on keeping kids busy through this link)
4. Dress up party
Get kids dressed up in super hero costumes and have fun acting as the superheroes. Mom and dad could do the same. You can tell stories, have car play, games or make crafts at the same time. (Idea from Kim Rinaldi –Robdy and Cristen Mulley Hammel)
5. Wrestling Match and forts and couch cushion obstacle courses
Place pillows or cushion on the floor and organize a wrestling match between the kids. Or build forts and use couch cushions and play obstacle courses. (Contributed by Heather Pitcher and Sandra Garcia)
6. Balloon up in the air
Have several balloons and have kids bouncing the balloons without the balloons touching the ground. Play their favorite music or praise songs while you play with the balloons. Dance and sing at the same time and make joyful noises.
7. Film Festivals and Pop Corn Popping Contest
Get a favorite movie started, pop some pop corn or a favorite snack and start the pop corn popping contest, meaning see who could pop the pop corn into their mouth without dropping on the floor.
8. Indoor puppet show, dance and music play
Be creative, use old socks or pillowcases and make them into puppets. Or use existing toys. Cut up a cardboard box to make it into a theater with bed sheets as the curtain. Start your own indoor puppet show. Get the kids to sing and dance as the puppet dance to the music. (Part contribution by Debbie Twomey)
9. Baking and cooking
Time to bake or cook together in the kitchen. Make a mess and clean it up. Dinner is done while you are playing.
10. Build a fort
Use cardboard boxes and make forts or build playhouses with it. Kids could use their imagination with crayons and draw pictures of windows, birds, and trees on the cardboards. Add a flashlight inside the playhouse and kids will have loads of fun inside.
11. Picnic
Pretend you are having a picnic by the lake. Place a bed sheet, tablecloth or blanket on the floor. Get the basket out with snacks, books and little toys. Talk about fun imagery things you see at the lake or mountain.
12. Playdoh
Make your playdoh and have hours of creating shapes, things and pretend foods with your kids.
13. My favorite – Guess that smell?
Use Young Living Essential oils of Orange, Peppermint, Lemon, and others depending on your kids’ use of the oils. It helps your kids distinguish smells and you can teach them the uses while they smell. Pretty soon they will be calling for this natural medicine by name when they have an ouchey.
These are thirteen suggested fun indoor things to do with your kids on rainy or snowy days. Do you have your own list? Please share. We would love to hear from you.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Right now you are playing with your kids crawling around the living room as mommy bear and daddy bear. The little cubs (your kids) are running after ‘mommy bear’ with their play foods and utensils trying to feed mommy meals of plastic corns and bananas. Daddy bear is doing his daddy growls chasing the kids and they can’t get enough of it. The room is filled with toys and you two are exhausted but the kids are not done playing.
Ever felt like you have no more energy for another make believe game in your living room? Would you like to provide outlets for your kids’ boundless energy?
Some of us have high-spirited, high-energy and fully energized kids once they open their eyes. Halfway through your playtime you get tired but not the kids. With the fall season comes colder weather and kids are having more indoor time. How do you channel their energies?
Sport activities are best outlets to direct kids’ boundless energies. But not all sports are suitable for kids 5 and under. Kids are vulnerable to injury during sport. With precautionary measures most can be prevented. However here are three sports that are safe for kids 5 and below:
Karate – this Japanese martial art is a great indoor activity for kids. Kids 5 and below are usually being introduce with playful movements and kicks in these classes. They also work on life skills like focus, discipline and self-control.
Swimming – giving kids the opportunity to learn how to swim could be a lifesaver. Swimming is an important life skill since drowning is the second highest cause of death among young adults and children. Swimming is also one of the best workouts for children and adults. There are swimming lessons available in most YMCA centers throughout the United States at affordable prices.
Soccer – almost every kid in America has tried soccer before they turned ten. Soccer is a great team sport and can help develop a child’s social skill and sportsmanship. One of the benefits of soccer is it is not a contact sport like football, lacrosse, hockey or rugby. Because contact sports have higher incidents of collision and injury, soccer will be a better option for kids 5 years and younger.
A high-energy child with undirected energy may potentially cause problems at school or home. Sadly, some are given names like ADD, ADHD and the likes and were taken to undesirable routes or given ‘bad reports’. Physical activities are important for kids of any age. It helps channel their energy and promotes better sleep.
Penny Leclair of www.pennyleclair.com has her high energy daughter bounce on a little mini trampoline for 10 minutes before school. She says it helps her focus better, releases anxiety and pre-school stress. Penny also says giving her daughter 2 ounces of NingXia Red, one before school and one packet in her lunch makes a big difference too. NingXia Red has lots of vitamins, minerals and specific amino acids that are great for our little ones and us.
Sometimes the foods that contain high levels of sugar, preservatives, and dyes or processed may trigger their energy levels. Remember to add a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to their diet for balanced nutrition and digestion. Here is a delicious chewable vitamin recommended for your kids but I admit I like the taste so much I have one every day too:
Sports and physical activities are not only beneficial to adults, they are really important for kids’ wellbeing too. This season get your kids involved in outdoor or indoor activities and let us know the benefits.
We are always learning from our readers. Please comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
I was a sugar addict. In fact my sugar addiction started when I was nine where candy, cookies and ice cream were my weekly reward for a good job in my weekly piano classes. So sugar to me were treats, happy occasions, job well done and all around satisfaction in life.
Clueless, I continued with my sugar eating habit until a wake up call in college when I was suffering from allergies, insomnia and headaches and more…all due to sugar addiction.
If I say I don’t like sugar, I’d be lying. Sugar tastes good. We can be addicted to sugar just like people who are addicted to drugs and cigarettes. Children are addicted to sugar at a very young age because they are given it in school, home and daycares as a reward for good behavior, as treats, or anything related to being good.
A few days ago while at the grocery store, I saw a great example of why I don’t feed my kid sugar and candy. A three year old was screaming and crying for M&M’s, and was un-consolable until he got them.
Is he addicted to sugar?
According to scientific research, sugar stimulates and releases dopamine in our brain. Dopamine is a feel good and is responsible for reward-driven learning. It works when someone takes cocaine or other drugs. Since it is reward-driven, our brain likes and craves for more.
Flavored cereals, cookies, cakes, pop tarts, doughnuts and sugared drinks like sweetened tea, sodas, boxed juices are loaded with sugar. Sugar stimulates our brain just like morphine and cocaine.
Sugar flavored breakfast and drinks are fast carbs that spike the blood sugar in kids or adults and they don’t last. Before lunchtime in school, hunger may strike that leaves kids feeling miserable and moody. Could this be classified as behavioral problem or wrong breakfast foods?
Dr. Sanjay Gupta reported in CBS 60 minutes in March of this year that new scientific research supports his theory that sugar is toxic and is linked to heart disease. You can read the full report through this link.
Sugar is also linked to kidney damage, cancer, type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Obesity in adults and children are linked to high intake of sugar. Imagine 130 pounds of sugar consumed per year by an average American!
Here are three ways to break away from sugar:
1. Remember fast carbs like white bread, sweetened cereals, potato products, ketchup eaten alone or as a majority of the diet will make kids and adults fat. We have to get slow burning carbs, proteins and fats into our diet for weight loss and prevent diseases.
2. Be informed about the foods and drinks we consumed daily. Here at The Total Wellness Doc, we want to serve you with valuable content to not only inform but to give you solutions to getting the results you want. Slique Products like Slique Gum, Slique Tea and Slique Essence Oil and Slique Slimming Caps may be one of your solutions to breakaway from sugar. Follow this link to find out more.
3. Be willing to make the changes for better health. I’ve written an eBook called 10 Hidden Secrets Why You Can’t Get Your Hand Out of the Cookie Jar. Get it today.
It may take you a few days, weeks or months before you completely breakaway from a sugar addiction. The key is to take incremental steps. Please post your questions or comment on my Facebook Wall. I would like to hear from you.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
We are our kids’ role models. If we are not in the habit of reading, chances are they may not. If you’ve ever struggled with what to occupy your kids’ ages 11-12 everyday, try getting them the books or magazines on topics they enjoy. There are millions of books out there. Not all of them are created equal.
In fact if you walk in the aisles of your local Barnes and Noble bookstore, you might find some of the suggested titles for tweens and teens today are quite dark. What do we mean by dark?
Vampires, evil, witchcraft and many of the likes… How do you determine what’s best for your children who are independent readers with their interests more defined and who are ready to embark on a journey of being a teen and into young adults?
Here are 5 websites to get a list of recommended books and ideas for kids:
1. Oprah’s Reading List
2. Drop everything and read
3. Read Kiddo Read
4. American Library Association
5. Focus on Family Reading List
The habit of reading is not a natural process. At Total Wellness we believe readers are raised. Here are 5 ways to raise a reader in your home:
1. Bring them to the library and bookstore to pick up the books they like (with supervision).
2. Make books available at home at all times.
3. Read to them and you (parents) have the habit of reading.
4. Create a book discussion or talk about the books you’ve read.
5. Make reading a family goal.
Here are 15 recommended books and magazines for kids ages 11-12:
1. Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis
2. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll
3. The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
4. Red Rock Mysteries Series by Jerry B. Jenkins and Chris Fabry
5. New Sugar Creek Gang by Pauline Wilson and Sandy Dengler
6. Young Women of Faith series by Nancy Rue
7. Mandie series by Lois Gladys Leppard
8. National Geographic Kids Everything series by National Geographic
9. National Geographic World History biographies series by National Geographic
10. Ramona series by Beverly Cleary
11. The Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney
12. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupery
13. National Geographic Kids magazines
14. Highlights magazines
15. Discovery Girls magazines
Our children grow up really quickly. Their formative years are short. Compiling a book list for children ages 10 and above may not be that easy since their interests are more defined at this age. An understanding of your child is important to help them discover the pleasure and joy of reading.
Some kids are more mature at this age and are more advanced readers. Every child is created uniquely different and learning processes are different as well. The above list is just a suggested list. Please use the listed websites to find out more on reading materials that are available for your child.
Please share with us if you have other resources to help our readers who have children of this age group. We appreciate your input. Please leave your comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
C.S. Lewis, the author of The Chronicles of Narnia once said a children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest. There is no denying that most children’s stories bring joy even to parents. Reading is such a wonderful experience to bond with children and to bring back memories of what we read when we were little.
A survey in the United Kingdom shows more than half of elementary aged children have never been read a story when entering school. Children are at risk of being left behind and fail to develop a creative and imaginative side of their gifts.
According to that survey, children from privileged and poor backgrounds are facing the same problem. It’s no longer just an economic issue. Time spent for reading has been substituted with TV watching. Is that a national disaster in the United Kingdom, America or the world in general?
Parents who read to their children at home, introduce books at an early age and encourage reading at home discover that their children are more prepared for school, have more self confidence and have a head start in literacy and language skills.
Technology has given more choices for our children. They could choose to flip the pages of books or become electronic readers. There are plenty of books available online through a Kindle, laptop or iPad.
Most children by age 6 are able to re-tell stories, read aloud at ease, identify new words and understand the story they read.
Here is our list of 25 recommended books for children ages 6-10:
Millions of Cats by Wanda Gag
Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel
The Berenstain Bears series by Stan and Jan Berenstain
Mouse Tales by Arnold Lobel
Busybody Nora by Johanna Hurwitz
The Magic School Bus series by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen
Nate the Great series by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Wilder Ingalls
Clifford the Big Red Dog series by Norman Bridwell
Thomas the Tank Engine series by Rev. W. Awry
The Cat in the Hat and other Dr. Seuss series of books
Sam and the Firefly by P.D. Eastman
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
Madeline series by Ludwig Bemelmans
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, Michael Chesworth and Louis S. Glanzman
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Little Bear series by Else H. Minarik
Little Critters series by Mercer Mayer
Mr. Putter and Tabby series by Cynthia Rylant
Danny and The Dinosaur by Syd Hoff
Sammy the Seal by Syd Hoff
Young Cam Jansen series by David Adler
Are You My Mother by P.D. Eastman
Pancakes for Breakfast by Tomie dePaola
Maisy Goes Shopping by Lucy Cousins
We realize that the learning processes for children are different. Some read independently at an earlier age than others. These are just 25 samples of books and please share your family’s favorite books with us.
During this back to school time, there are many challenges families are facing especially in the area of health and wellbeing. Please take time to find out more about how to protect your children from all the airborne virus and diseases. Click on this link to find out more.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
“One more story, mommy”…every child who has routinely been read to may have requested for one more bedtime story. Some may feel a void on nights when parents forget or did not have the time to read during bedtime.
Reading aloud is crucial for bonding between parent and child, enhancing sleep and developing a great habit of reading. S. Gilliland wrote:
You may have tangible wealth untold,
Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold;
Richer than I you can never be
I had parents who read to me.
There are many advantages to start reading to our children. Newborns are known to learn at a fast rate absorbing all the information from parents. You will start developing a lifelong love of learning through reading to your baby. It’s never too early to start reading.
Studies have shown that babies in their mother’s womb will kick and move when they are being read to. They are already responding to familiar voices even before birth. When you read to your baby, you are building a strong foundation of learning.
Kids between the ages of 2-5 have fresh uncluttered minds and are able to captivate all the treasures in books and through reading. The types of books we choose and present to them is crucial to their mind and spirit. The Bible instruct parents to train up a child in the way he should go…
Which way should we lead them to through books?
Let’s take a look at some advantages of reading:
1. Teach them how to read- children do not automatically know why and how to read a book. When we read to them, they will find the why and how as they pick up a book.
2. Bonding – having your kid sit on your lap and reading is the most beautiful experience and will be a cherished memory.
3. Develop a habit – consistently reading to our children will definitely help them develop a habit of reading.
4. Fundamentals of language- language skills are acquired through reading
5. Knowledge and intelligence- kids learn things outside their world through reading. Knowledge is gained and intelligence is expanded through reading.
Here is The Total Wellness Doc and Mom’s recommended reading list for 0-5:
The Puffin Mother Goose Nursery Rhymes Treasury. Illustrated by Raymond Briggs
The Tall Book of Mother Goose (Harper Tall Book)
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Mr. Grumpy’s Outing by John Burningham
Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt
The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things That Go
Red Sings From Treetops: A Year in Colors by Joyce Sidman
Have You Seen My Duckling? By Nancy Tafuri
All The World by Liz Garton Scanlon and Marla Frazee
Curious George (series) by H.E. Rey and Margaret Rey
The Very Clumsy Click Beetle’s Favorite Words by Eric Carle
Thomas the Tank Engine: The Complete Collection (Railway Series) by Rev. W. Awdry
Henny Penny by Paul Galdone
Peter’s Chair by Ezra Jack Keats
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Burton
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper and Loren Long
For my Christian friends, I really like Patricia A. Pingry’s series of Biblical stories
The Story of Jesus, The Story of Noah, The Story of Joshua
Do you have a list of books for children between 0-5? Please share with our readers by leaving your comment below. Thank you.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Most of us have felt the Monday blues or stress of returning to school or work after the weekend of rest and play. It has been proven that we are more likely to have a heart attack on Monday mornings than any other day.
According to WebMD, at the same time, levels of a stress hormone called cortisol peak early in the day and when it happens, cholesterol plague that has built up in the arteries can rupture and block the flow of blood to the heart.
Going back to a new school year or going back to school after the weekend can bring unsettling and uneasy feelings for our kids. They may show signs of irritation, nervousness, quietness or having a bad attitude. Our kids may be suffering from stress just like adults.
Some parents may have the same feelings and may show their stress and irritation to their children. Instead of listening to their fears, we may have transferred some of our own stress to our children.
How do you cope and help ease children from Monday blues or stress?
Don’t live just for the weekend
Heard of “TGIF” (thank God it’s Friday)? The weekend is the time when most of us feel free to do whatever we like and it is really hard not to live for the weekend. What if we schedule some fun time for the kids during the week to break off the mundane school schedule and work?
Prepare on Sunday nights
Getting our kids ready on Sunday nights by picking out their outfits, making sure all homework, books and essentials are in the backpack, talking about what is in the lunchbox and breakfast menu may excite kids.
Preparing the night before will eliminate morning rush and set everybody off with a good start.
Have a good night’s rest
A healthy sleep routine is important for our body and mind. Just like adults, some kids may have difficulty going to bed. It could be due to a disturbing book they read like about ghosts or thrillers, or a violent or action packed movie or TV series or online games right before bedtime.
Winding down at least 30 minutes before bedtime can calm the body and mind and help promote sleep. To find out more on the secrets of a good night’s sleep, please download our free booklet here.
One quick tip, apply Lavender essential oil topically on feet and spray it on your child’s pillow. It will relax and calm their mind and body.
Music and motivational CDs
Music can transform attitudes, and boost our emotions. Listening to motivational CDs and songs in the morning can help startup our day with a positive impression.
These are some of the ways to defeat Monday blues. Talking and spending time with kids could be the best remedies for back to school Monday blues. They may just need someone to listen to them to calm their nerves.
What are your strategies to help your kids with Back to School Monday Blues? Let us know by commenting below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Yes, back pain can happen in kids too. Your back to school shopping this year probably includes choosing backpacks for your children. But beware! Those cute little princesses or superheroes backpacks may harm our kids’ backs.
Millions of kids today are walking around with a heavy load on their backs each year. Some kids tend to carry their bag on one shoulder. Many are suffering from muscle strain and joint pains. Carrying heavy backpacks may also cause lower back pain, neck and arm pain. It can also contribute to headaches.
There are cases where kids that develop a habit of carrying the heavy bag on one shoulder, over time the spine leans and may eventually affect the development of their spine.
A study was done in California with 3,500 students aged between 11 and 15 where researches found that 64% of the kids reported back pain at some time, 2 of every 5 children felt pain wearing a backpack. Imagine the report continued with 21% of the students having back pain that lasted more than six months and reoccur. They have to miss school or after-school sports because of back pain.
According to Dr. Scott Bautch, a member of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) there is an increase in young children complaining about back, neck and shoulder pain. His first question to the kids was “Do you carry a backpack to school?”
What do you think the answer was?
Here is a backpack checklist taken from the ACA.
1. Backpack size. The backpack should never be longer or wider than the child’s torso and should not hang more than 4 inches below the waistline. If it is too long, your child will lean forward while walking.
2. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable and will place pressure on the neck and shoulder muscles.
3. Your child should be encouraged to use both straps. If they habitually use only one shoulder carrying the weight will lead to neck and muscle spasms, low-back pain and poor posture.
4. Adjustable shoulder straps can be fitted and centered to your child’s body.
5. Padded back backpacks provide comfort, protects children’s back from being poked by sharp school supplies.
6. A backpack with several compartments helps position the contents effectively where heavier items are placed closer to the body.
Did you take a look at your child’s backpack lately? Heavy backpacks and back pain affect kids of all age groups. The backpack rule is, it should not be 10% more than their body weight. For example a 57 pound kid will carry no more than 5.7 pounds in his backpack.
As our schools are changing to a more digital world, text books will probably become obsolete in 5 years or less and a tablet device will carry all your text books and materials.
I thought rolling backpacks were the best alternative for kids, but some of my colleagues like Dr. Lisa Homic says those too can cause muscle strain and joint misalignment. My recommendations are to do the best you can with the recommendations we gave you above but remember you and your children’s spines should be checked by a Chiropractor every few months and more often if you are experiencing discomfort.
I promise it will be one of the best things you do for your spine and your families’ health.
What do you think about backpacks and back pain? Please leave your comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Photo credit: llbean.com
There are still plenty of discussions about what is best for our children’s lunch menu at school. School boards across the nation have been making efforts to make lunches healthier for years, but do our children make the right choice when they are at that lunch line?
With the beautiful packaging and foods that they don’t eat at home, the array of school lunches offered could entice just any child. Even a well discipline kid may not pick the nutritious selections. Depending on school lunch, vending machines or convenience foods from stores can disrupt our kids’ good eating habits.
Will you be packing lunch or giving your kids money for their lunch this school year?
Average school lunch price in the nation is $2.46 with high school student paying more. If you have 3 school age students, you will be paying $22.14 if they purchase school lunches 3 times a week.
Bad news is, there is a lot of fat, salt, sugar and preservatives found in the foods and drinks served in the school lunch lines. The American Heart Association reported that 1 in every 3 American kids and teens are obese. It has tripled since 1963.
Packing lunch can be the best way to eat healthier and save money on food. You choose what goes inside the lunch box or bag. It is critical for kids to have protein, whole grains, vitamins and the fiber in their diet. Lunches filled with preservatives, sugar, salt and fat may cause kids to feel tired after lunch and may lose their focus in school.
In his documentary series, Food Revolution, Jaime Oliver showed that when kids were given a choice they would pick French fries and chocolate milk over the healthier alternatives. Many overweight kids were not helped by school lunches but the high calories added to their obesity and food addictions. And we all know that overweight kids get teased, which cripples their self image.
Here is a list of lunch items that can be included in your child’s lunch box. We list them according to the food groups. You can mix and match and have a great lunch menu for weeks:
Fruits and vegetables:
Carrot sticks
Grape tomatoes
Peas
Celery
Edamame (soybean in the pod found in Costco, BJs and Sam’s Club)
Salad
Grapes
Apples
Peaches
Clementines
Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
Bananas
Protein/Calcium:
Almond butter
Peanut butter
Variety of cheeses
Cottage cheese
Greek yogurt
Yogurt plain with fruit and nuts
Home cooked chicken, turkey or beef (stew or soup)
Home baked chicken and turkey for sandwiches
Carbohydrates:
Variety of wraps
Whole grain bread
Pita bread
Tortilla
Pasta
Rice
Fun snacks:
Raisins
Favorite healthy cookies (home made or store bought)
Beef or turkey jerky (home made or store bought no nitrates)
Animal crackers (whole grain)
Dried fruits
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
Granola with dark chocolate pieces (there are gluten free varieties)
Young Living Manna bar or Wolfberry Bars
Young Living dried wolfberries
Sunflower seeds
From the list above, here is one example of what we can assemble for lunch:
Celery and almond butter
Home baked chicken, salad in a wrap (add favorite sauce if needed)
Young Living dried wolfberries, sunflower seeds, dark chocolate pieces and almond mix.
Doesn’t that just make you hungry for a healthy lunch…
Let us know if you have a lunch recommendation. Leave us a comment below.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
After the unscheduled days of summer, getting back to early morning rush to school and work can be stressful for parents and children. While it may be easy to just rush out the door and stop by a fast food place for breakfast, in the long run this practice may not be healthy for children and adults.
To help your family make a smooth transition to a new school year, here are some ideas drawn from our staff at the Total Wellness Doc and Mom website who have children of all ages and stages. However the basics of power breakfast remains the same whether you are raising a toddler or a teen.
The four basic food groups of protein, whole grains, vegetables/fruits and dairy/fats are essential for growth, energy, health and total wellness.
After over 10 hours of not eating overnight, getting barely enough food in the morning or meals packed with sugar and carbohydrates may cause unhealthy eating habits and lack of alertness in kids. I remember as a kid and in college being really tired by 10am after breakfast Pop Tarts or Frosted Flakes cereal. Our blood sugar level declines during the night and our body needs nourishment with the right type of food in the morning.
Grains like oats, buckwheat, wheat germ and brown rice and other complex carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene and fiber are important items for power breakfasts. For a healthy diet, the USDA recommends 2-4 servings of fruits and 3-5 servings of vegetables per day. So we need to add some of these in the morning to get a healthy supply of the right nutrients in our kids’ bodies.
Eggs, cottage cheese and lean unprocessed meats are good sources of nutrients for the morning as well. In our family, we have smoothies and shake recipes using Young Living’s Power Meal. Power Meal is a vegetarian, rice-based meal replacement that’s rich in protein, antioxidants and amino acids.
Here are some of my favorite Power Meal shakes. Add different quantities based on your family size.
Liquid 75 % water 25% Almond Milk
All Natural Peanut Butter or Almond Butter
Bananas and Ice
Liquid 75% water 25% Greek Yogurt Plain
Frozen Blueberries, Blackberries and Raspberries (BJ’s or Costco has a big bag of $10)
Liquid 75% water 10% NingXia Red 15% Coconut water
½ Avocado mushy, Blueberries, Blackberries, and Raspberries
Spices Nutmeg and Cream of Tartar & ICE
The Healthy School Lunches Organization has made available a 7-page article called Healthy Power Breakfast for kids with 10 recipes you can use. You can download it here. This is one recipe that you could prepare ahead and free up your morning for other important things to do:
Fruity Bran Muffins
Makes 12 muffins
The combination of oat and wheat brans makes these wholesome, fruity muffins doubly healthful. Oat bran helps keep blood cholesterol levels low while wheat bran promotes a healthy digestive tract. Prune puree makes them moist without added fat. The muffins will be quite moist when they first come out of the oven; so let them stand a few minutes before serving.
2 cups whole wheat or whole wheat pastry flour _ cup wheat bran _ cup oat bran _ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon _ teaspoon nutmeg 1 apple, finely chopped or grated (use a food processor) _ cup raisins
1_ cups fortified soymilk or rice milk
1_ tablespoons vinegar
1 4-ounce jar prune baby food or other prune puree
1/3 cup molasses
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix flour, brans, salt, soda and spices.
In a separate bowl combine chopped apple, raisins, milk, vinegar, prune baby food, and molasses.
Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir to mix. Spoon batter into oil-sprayed muffin pans, filling them nearly to the top. Bake until tops bounce back when lightly pressed, about 25 minutes. Let stand 1 to 2 minutes, then remove from pan and let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Per muffin: 159 calories; 5.5 g protein; 37 g carbohydrate; 2 g fat; 6 g fiber; 203 mg sodium; calories from protein: 12%; calories from carbohydrates: 80%; calories from fats: 8%
Recipe from Healthy Eating for Life to Prevent and Treat Diabetes by Patricia Berton, RD.
Do you have a power breakfast recipe to share? Please send it to us or leave it in our comment section below. We are always looking for ideas from our readers. Thank you.
Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.
Interesting question, huh? One we probably rarely think about. I don’t know if you are like me but until I started improving my life, mind and body I didn’t even realize I wasn’t the person I wanted to be. I was so stuck in my life I didn’t even realize I had dreams I wasn’t living and goals I didn’t achieve. 10 years ago I didn’t see myself as an unhealthy person, or selfish, or lacking in anything… but I was.
This week I will be officially celebrating my 10 year anniversary. 10 years of marital bliss… not! Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love my husband and God has blessed me with an amazing man, but the happiness in our marriage came from A LOT OF WORK. Work on ourselves, individually and together.
I remember my wedding day it was so beautiful and amazing but it was everything I wanted and nothing my soon to be husband wanted, but he loved me so much he would do anything for me and did. It would be about 5 more years before I would understand marriage wasn’t just about me. And it wasn’t until 2008 when I started to understand about selflessness, the joys of giving, and the blessing that comes from that. I am sure many of you as you have aged have become a better person too. But being better also means caring for ourselves.
I think the word selfishness gets really confusing because there are so many individuals (especially women) who think it is selfish to put their health and happiness as a priority. They don’t voice what they really want, or make time for taking care of themselves, or they forget all about the dreams they once had. It is very easy to let this happen especially as a mom, a caretaker, or health professional.
I think it was this past January after my second miscarriage that I started to really dream again. I could always dream of earning more, or achieving the next rank but there were a whole bunch of little dreams inside of me I had forgotten about. Working with the material from PJ McClure the Mindset Coach’s Flip the Switch book and audio helped me pull out my dreams and get a clear vision. And it was just amazing. Literally less than a week after I got that vision on paper, parts of that dream started coming to fruition and it continues to happen.
Here at the Total Wellness we want you to be the person you’ve always wanted to be. We want you to be healthier and happier than you ever were before in your life. Right now in my life that is where I am and I know that I know that I know no matter where you are right now… you too can have the health and happiness you’ve only imagined.
But it starts with having a clear vision of that dream. This week we are going to be CELEBRATING here at the Total Wellness Doc and Mom. We have Specials, Giveaways and Contests all lined up for you. But the first thing I would like to give you is something to help you get that clear vision of what your dream life looks like. PJ McClure’s Flip the Switch guide for FREE.
Download the eBook and the Audio and follow along. I hope it helps you flip the switch and turn the light bulb back on.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
It was 8 am and my son had just slept 12 hours and woke up H-U-N-G-R-Y. I wanted the first thing to go into his stomach to be protein so I grabbed some all-natural turkey slices. These used to be his favorite but recently he would eat everything else on his plate and just a little of the turkey.
So at 8:05 am I put a few pieces of turkey down and blessed the food and he sat there for awhile just staring out the window and I proceeded to make our family morning Balance Complete Powermeal Shakes and some Ezekiel toast with all natural peanut butter. He still had not eaten his turkey so I decided I would not feed him the rest of the food until he finished his turkey.
8:15 am and still no turkey eating. So I say, “eat your turkey” he shakes his head no, I say “eat your turkey”, he shakes his head no and says NO, I pick up a piece of turkey and try to feed it to him, he adamantly shakes his head no and says no no no no no no no no. I let him sit for a bit.
8:20 still no turkey eating and whining and crying over the other food sitting there. I spend the next five minutes pointing to, picking up the turkey and saying “EAT THE TURKEY”. He cries and yells and does some kind of Cookie Monster eating where the turkey doesn’t really go in his mouth but all over his lap and floor. The cats are happily eating what hits the floor.
8:25 am I offer the toast and say, “If you eat your turkey just a few bites, I will let you have your toast and shake.”
8:30 still no turkey eating and it hits me WOW this is not about eating his turkey. He really may not like the taste anymore it is a battle of his will against my fortitude. And that same moment I realized why I see so many parents give into their kids. I am relaxed in the morning but what if I had 15 minutes to feed the kids and get them ready for school or off to daycare. It can’t be easy. I am not condemning parents for giving in, but I think we need to look at the bigger picture.
In the book MADE to CRAVE, it talks a lot about overcoming our desires for unhealthy foods. I am taking a group class based on the same theme. We are talking about how our childhood experiences influence our relationship with food. From everything to turning to food for comfort, to hide the pain, to my Italian upbringing that food was everything.
Learning to deny ourselves and developing self-discipline
The other day I heard a woman say she never drinks water. She said if I have a glass of tea a day that’s a good day. She has gained 40 pounds and has Irritable Bowel Syndrome. She said, “I started gaining weight when I started on these medications.” I said to her, “I bet if you had been drinking water, many of the ailments you take medications for would have been diminished or not even there.” She knows she needs to drink water but developing the self-discipline to do it is another thing.
As our children grow into young adults what we have taught them and expected of them will really matter. Will they have self-discipline when it comes to food, alcohol, sex, money management and the list goes on. If we have taught them about the power of self-discipline (which is a fruit of the spirit and we can all have access to that) we will find (my opinion) pretty happy, healthy and most likely successful kids.
It’s not going to be easy
I myself have struggled with self-discipline in my adult years. The result led to enormous amounts of debt, 40 pounds of extra weight, and difficulty in general. Maybe your story is the same. You may feel that you can’t expect your kids to eat healthy when you don’t. And yes it’s important to be the example and leader in your family when it comes to things like food, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start today.
I have to eat gluten free right now otherwise I suffer some bad health consequences. That isn’t easy even when you make healthy foods. I love Ezekiel toast in the morning but I now have to make it for my family and not eat any myself. I deny myself and in the end I am a lot happier than if I eat it.
From the book Made to Crave, “Living in victory tastes sweeter than any treat”.
Start in your home
My husband just reminded me that he attempted to out will his son to eat some of his eggs at a restaurant recently. After about 15 minutes of him acting out he decided to leave.
I am no expert but I do know in all the parents I have interviewed who have awesome kids they all say don’t give up, be consistent, and don’t give in. So I am going to do my best to follow these parenting principals knowing that I am not perfect and even my parenting could use a good dose of self-discipline. So I will do my best starting in my house in the hopes that when we are out that the standard I set there will come natural to my child.
8:45am My back was turned and when I turn around there is my son quietly eating his turkey 🙂
Joshie happily eating the rest of his breakfast after his Turkey Eating Refusal Battle. He lost but still shows remnants of this battle of the wills by the turkey slices on his head.
Please go over to my Facebook Page and tell me some of you stories about the Battle of the Will.
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
“What are those bubbles in the water?”, I asked my friend. We were enjoying a study weekend at her family’s home on Keuka Lake back in 1998. She said, “That’s from people’s laundry detergents and washing machine water going into the lake. The chemicals are causing problems with the lake’s ecosystem.” That was my first AHA moment when I realized that laundry detergent wasn’t as safe as I thought.
I remember in college the stink of the laundry rooms and of course the years of going to the laundry mat. The smells could be choking and all the time laundry detergent keeps getting cheaper and cheaper. Every Sunday paper has coupons for laundry detergent and in the store, the smell of the detergent and cleaner isle is too much and I have to plug my nose.
I started using all natural or I should say more natural detergents in 2002 and they just felt better on my body and for my eco-friendly mind. But they were costly and somehow I always spilled them everywhere and had to clean up the washing machines. But no more… no more detergents for me.
Watch this video and see my new ECO friendly laundry washing. YEHHH!
We publish newsletters and blogposts twice a week for our readers for general education purposes only. We cover topics that are related to achieving and maintaining total wellness which includes our emotional, physical, spiritual and financial health.
