One of my teachers and midwifery inspirations, Whapio, recently spoke to this concept that I wanted to share with all the mothers in this practice. She believes that the Nutrient every mother needs is Nurturing. I love this teaching and understand that each mother has various dislikes and likes around the various sections we will discuss in Nurturing. Here is a chart I created to help us find out what You like in nurturing. Print it out and start filling it out or bring it to a prenatal and we can go through it together. How to read it: You the Mother are in the middle. Under each section(i.e. Soul) ask yourself: " How do you like to be nurtured in your Soul?" List some concepts under each area.

Did you know that your body produces its own version of Pitocin during labor? It’s called oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone.” This powerful natural hormone plays a central role in labor, birth, and bonding. ✨ What Oxytocin Does in Labor: - Stimulates rhythmic uterine contractions - Helps the cervix dilate - Encourages the placenta to detach after birth - Promotes bonding and breastfeeding right after delivery - Reduces stress and enhances feelings of calm and connection 💡 How to Support Your Natural Oxytocin: - Create a safe, quiet, and private birthing environment - Use gentle touch, massage, and loving words - Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques - Limit unnecessary interventions and bright lights - Stay connected to your birth team - Skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding postpartum 🔄 While synthetic Pitocin can help when medically necessary, nothing quite compares to your body’s own natural rhythm. Trust in the incredible design of your body — oxytocin is your built-in guide and partner in labor. Your body creates 3-4x more oxytocin naturally in labor to help you meet the intensity of labor and reduce stress naturally. 💪❤️ 💬 Mothers: What will help you support and protect your natural oxytocin during labor? Let’s share tips, stories, and support in the comments below!