From Plate to Palate; A Fertility Journey Part 3

Well, Annette has done it again. I am so honored that Annette has chosen to share her  journey with us. There are over 20 million women who battle infertility or some women health issue that can lead to infertility. We all have to work toward supporting one another and listen to our story.

Everyone Please enjoy... I hope this will bless you.

There are times that I think to myself “are these natural healing techniques working” to help me conceive? Because sometimes, it’s hard to really measure it. But, when I meditate on it, I feel it and wholeheartedly believe it. Personally, I felt that forcing my body to conceive is not the route I ever wanted to go, so IVF wasn’t even on my radar. Everyone is different, and knows their body more than ANYONE else does, so whatever route that they choose is up to them! I know that, for me, I didn’t want to force nature because something in my heart tells me that my body still needs some healing to do in order to create the right environment to carry a child. So, amping up the natural healing modalities is what I’m doing. And, I have to say, I am LOVING them!

Aside from focusing on a highly plant-based lifestyle over the past 4.5 years, I really began increasing the amount of fruit in my diet over the past year - our reproductive system runs on natural sugars like honey, coconut water, fruit, veggies (YUM!). It is so alkalizing, healing to the body, and supportive of the reproductive system! We need to eat fruit to bear fruit.

One of the key ingredients to this fertility recipe is prayer. There is nothing more relaxing and comforting to me than that. When the timing is right, God will bless us with our own little angel. I strongly believe that. We are on God’s watch, not our own, and He knows what’s right for each of us – I just need to keep leaning into that, and know that He’s got it covered! I still have to do some work of my own, but I rest in the fact that I have the Lord guiding us and watching our backs. There was a very personal prayer that the Pastors at our church prayed over me, my husband, and our future child that gave me so much comfort and peace, and I just knew something additional was healing in my body as soon as I walked out of church that evening. You can’t measure everything in a physical manner – there are some things that are just felt by the heart.

I have been going to acupuncture for the past 6 months - the first few months I was focusing on my shoulder discomfort, not really fertility (thankfully, the shoulder discomfort has gone down significantly, so I know something is working!). But, it wasn’t until July/August that I had the acupuncturist really start focusing more on fertility – I don’t know why I waited so long for that piece, but timing is everything. My heart was finally telling me to start pumping up the jam on the acupuncture! So, we did. When I say we, I mean me AND my husband. It takes two to tango, and guys need it too sometimes. To me, acupuncture is extremely relaxing, and I find myself almost in another realm while getting it done. The energy blockages just start opening, and the body heals! While this may not happen for everyone, I know I can feel healing from it. Highly recommended!

I’ve also tried the Mayan abdominal massage a few different times, and really enjoy it! There are other abdominal techniques that can be stronger and more intense, but I like to lean into practices that are more calming and relaxing, so I chose this massage technique. It’s great for clearing energy pathways, and great for gut health too (which is what I have been working on healing for the past 4.5 years; I still have a ways to go, but I can feel the healing happening). Cupping alongside the abdominal massage and reflexology have all been super relaxing, and I know that’s what my body has been craving (for YEARS) – to relax! Resting is part of the game, and my reproductive system sure needs some of it.

Saunas have been a nice addition to my routine over the past 6 months as it allows me to relax, have some extra prayer time, and sweat out those toxins! Also, following the moon cycles is still something I am learning about, but after digging a little deeper into the way the moon cycles, planet alignments, energy vibrations, etc., affect female cycles, I have become a strong believer in how we are so connected to every part of this universe. And, how the energy of the universe truly helps us! I have made it a practice to do new moon and full moon meditations, and ask the moon (which represents female energy; the sun represents male energy) to help guide and heal me. What a deep and beautiful connection I feel to it, especially since I synced my cycle up to the moon cycles (yes, it’s possible to do this)!

I hope this gives all of you some extra hope knowing that there are many natural healing modalities out there to work on healing the body (both women AND men), and I barely scratched the surface with the ones that I am practicing. I have a peace in my heart that all of these are working in conjunction with each other! Praying for all of you on your fertility journeys, and I hope that you each find peace in whatever techniques you are leaning into; you have the power to heal your body – many blessings to you!

Thanks

Annette Licitra

Integrative Health Coach + Wellness Chef

630.965.6454

Passionette Palate

http://passionettepalate.com/

*Schedule an appointment with me here*: https://www.vyte.in/annette@passionettepalate.com

Honor- Protect-Encourage in Life, Labor, Birth and Postpartum recovery

Honor- Protect- Encourage in Life, Labor, Birth and Postpartum recover 

I have had the pleasures to support many families from different cultures, religions and economical backgrounds. I learned that everyone believe that birth is only about vaginal, C-section birth and on your back. You have many options. Women do not realize you can birth your way. It has been my honored to encourage women to birth their way and to make sure they have peace in the efforts they made to birth their little bundle of joy.

You will hear many stories of birth from many different women. Why is it they are always willing to share the worst of their experience? Why do women think it is helpful to speak frightening things and expect a great out come from the person you shared with prior to their birth?

The moment I meet a family I mention to them "never have conversation about birth with anyone other than the person you can have a similar birth to and that will be your Mother or Grand Mother". If your Mother isn't with you or your not speaking with her then you can possibly get great information from your Sister, but please go no further. 

I have seen women experience birth standing, squatting, sidelining and hands and knees. Everyone of these women experienced birth their way and made sure they were able to have a strong support team that will support and encourage them along the way. Every effort you make to improve your birthing options the more you are likely to manifest your birth. Your mindset is during the time of your pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum recovery will make a huge difference. I believe you should not have any expectation on your experience. You should have an idea of what you would like for your experience to be so you can keep a positive outlook and develop your village around that idea. Whether you experience that birth exactly is not in your control this is why you are particular about your village they will help you with the outcome of your birthing experience.

Women have been giving birth before we could even keep track. Mary birthed Jesus and she didn't have a hospital. Please do not misunderstand what I am saying there is a time and place to utilize hospitals. Every birth doesn't have to take place in a hospital. I have witnessed births in homes, birthing centers and hospitals and each family had their reason for the decision to give birth in those settings. I loved every single birth and believe the majority of those births took place in the perfect place for the family, however some families made decisions out of fear due to miss information and later felt they missed out on a different experience. I do not allow families to regret their experiences. No matter what you think the outcomes is still beautiful and you learn from the experience. This is a learning experience.

Birth and Breastfeeding is one of the most discussed topics amongst women. I have experienced some of the most dis hearting conversations lately. Some women have experienced little support from family members. Many of the things I have heard mentioned were " Why are you breastfeeding that is to much". "Breastfeeding isn't enough you need to feed that baby", That is so disgusting you need to cover up or go somewhere else with that". "How long are you going to breastfeed"? Just image how a woman will feel when she is trying and not receiving any support. I have even witnessed fathers who come from families who do not understand actually not support the mother.

We have to not just educate each other we also have to educate and encourage the support of others around them. I remember breastfeeding my daughter, My husband was so supportive in the simple things. He would make sure I had plenty of water, oatmeal and I always had a place to breastfeed that was quite and clean for me and our daughter. It made for a beautiful experience. Though we had a few hiccups on him understanding when it was okay to toss out milk or monitor the time milk was out of the fridge. We eventually got it under control. Boy did it take a while to get him to understand liquid gold. Lol!!

We have to speak as women to one another about physicians, midwifes and hospital experiences. It doesn't mean for you to tell horror stories. We as women should share our story with grace. Please don't frighten anyone with your story and them wonder why they choose not to attempt a natural birth. We have to share. We especially should share with out children. My Mother not shared with we I was able to observe her in labor and because of that I went into my birthing ad breastfeeding experience open minded and so full of love and courage. My experience was definitely a challenge with a sunny side up baby, long back labor but I absolutely enjoyed it because I was laboring not like my Mother but like my mother if you understand.

I had a Mother I supported who had her baby at 23 weeks. As we were speaking after the birth she mentioned her Mother shared with her after she gave birth to her baby that she was a 23 week birth. Now there is nothing she could have done to prevent the birth, however she could have known there is a possibility she may give birth early and mention it to physician. This Mother was shocked and hurt about finding out so late. This is exactly why we need to speak. I am sadden that especially in the community of Women of Color we do not talk. Please share your story. Please Honor one another story, Encourage one another in life, labor, birth and postpartum recovery.

Tips on when to share:
1. Never be afraid to share your story it is very healing.
2. If you do not want to verbally share your story journaling is also a great way to share until you are ready to speak.
3.Most importantly please do not over exaggerate your story if it wasn't an experience you were anticipating.
4.If you have experienced a traumatic birth please inform the person before hand that who is asking about your birth story before sharing.

Remember we are a village, we are here to assist in each others growth as individuals in life experiences.

Peaceful Birthing Doula

Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com

(630)481-6079

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

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From Plate to Palate; A Fertility Journey Part 2

From Plate to palate; A fertility journey Part 2

Do you ever get those days where you think ‘why is this happening’? I get those now and then about my fertility journey – sometimes, that negative energy gets to me, and I start wondering if I really want to get pregnant. Or, if it's just the thought of wanting a family is what I'd LIKE, but maybe not what's best for me. I get to thinking about what the reasons are that my husband and I haven't been able to conceive up to this point. And, then my thoughts just go all over the place. Should I just be focusing on my healing process? My husband? Just be happy that I am a fortunate Auntie to 5 beautiful nieces? My business? Supporting others on their healing journeys? Then, the thoughts go further into space…maybe the Lord has a different path for me, and maybe I'm not capable of rearing my own children, and I have a different purpose in life? Overthinker? Yeah, probably.

When that happens, I just try my best to give it to God because I'm not running this show. I know that. But, those feelings are L-O-U-D! Then there is a stronger feeling deep in my heart where I can see myself and my husband having a family, and those thoughts of what I am supposed to be focusing become clearer – focusing on my healing and growth process is where I am supposed to be at. So, right where I am at right now. I feel that many of the things I am doing are working to get us closer to starting a family of our own. But, not just that...it’s working to help me heal and grow spiritually and emotionally for my soul. I can’t truly explain how, but I just feel it in my heart.

I've decided to turn up the heat on the natural healing techniques, and try additional avenues to really open up the energy centers and blocked energy in my body. The more I learn about them, the more I know in my heart that I have so much healing to do. But, then again, don’t we all? And, won’t we always have more healing to do? Yes, it’s a never-ending process. However, if we don’t work on that as much as possible, how much will we actually have built up inside of us, and how is it manifesting in our bodies? Yikes!

So, what natural healing techniques have I found to be helping? Prayer: I just love the all of the feelings that I get when I pray: a sense of relaxation, healing, calm, protection, optimism. And, those are just to name a few. Meditation: I haven't been as consistent with meditation as I'd like within the past few years, but I’ve been trying more recently over the past few months to take more time for myself a few times a week and get meditation in, even if it’s for 5-10 minutes. It’s so soothing, and really helps calm my mind and body. I’ve even started doing more new moon and full moon meditations (I can explain this, more in depth, another time) – they’re amazing.

Something else that I have opened my mind up more to over the past few years that has yielded some amazing personal growth opportunities is paying attention to things around me like numerology and other small signs that signify that we aren’t ever alone on our journeys, regardless of how much we can feel alone in these types of situations. I feel that there are always spirit guides and angels waiting to help us, comfort us, say hello, etc. Why, even as I am writing this, I stopped to look at the clock, and it said 3:33! I have been getting that sequence often lately…or 11:11, or just any same-number sequence. And, so I have to share about the meaning behind it: “The number 333 has a lot of significance. If you’re seeing this number often, the universe is sending energy your way. Or, 333 can also represent the essence of the Trinity of mind, body and spirit.” While this thought process can seem a little out there, it’s so far from that. We are taught that it’s a little out there…a little woo-woo, but it’s really not. It’s part of how we are all SO connected to each other and this universe if we just paid attention a little more!

A few other things that I have been exploring are breath transformation, Mayan abdominal massage, reflexology, cupping, acupuncture, reiki, and moon cycles. I am loving all of it! Stay tuned for more information on them, and how they are helping on my fertility journey (and, just life in general). Be blessed!

Thanks

Annette Licitra

Integrative Health Coach + Wellness Chef

630.965.6454

Passionette Palate

http://passionettepalate.com/

*Schedule an appointment with me here*: https://www.vyte.in/annette@passionettepalate.com

From Plate to palate; A fertility journey Part 1

From Plate to palate; A fertility journey Part 1

Hello! I'm Annette Licitra, Certified Health Coach & Wellness Chef, and my passion is to provide encouragement, support and nourishing recipes to people as they invest in their health so that their bodies will shine for them. Ok, that was the easy part. Now, for the rest…and, I’m just going to put this out there – this is a bit of a difficult story for me to write. But, this is part of healing. While many aspects of my healing process have gotten easier over time, there is one symptom deep inside of me that I struggle with more than some of the others…here it goes…

For as long as I can remember, I've been challenged with digestive issues, which I had always chalked up to a 'nervous stomach'. However, I knew in my gut (yes, pun intended!) that something was amiss, but couldn't figure out what to associate it with other than nerves. Fast forward to 2002, when I learned through conventional allopathic medicine that I had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is characterized as a chronic digestive disorder. 

As I moved into early adulthood, my list of symptoms grew to include recurrent urinary tract infections (ouch!), pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS), rosacea, melasma, interstitial cystitis (IC), fatigue, brain fog, pelvic pain, weight gain, bloating, thinning hair…and, the one that I wear the deepest and hardest on my heart – the dreaded word: infertility.

I began doing serious research on natural healing in 2014, two years after my husband and I got married. We wanted to start a family, and started to realize that it was taking longer than we thought it might. This saddened and confused me. I figured that I had to start doing something because I didn’t know what was REALLY going on. It became more difficult to understand, or maybe accept, how so many females got pregnant so quickly. Here I was, and still am, struggling to conceive.

With these ridiculous digestive issues and now this infertility thorn, my rigorous research mode kicked into high gear. I started learning that all of my symptoms – yes, symptoms, not diseases (a disease is only a dis-ease of the body) - are related to one another, and are a result of multiple things, but mainly a high level of unproductive bacteria in my gut (streptococcus), nutrient deficiencies, overuse of antibiotics, and lifestyle.

Digestive issues were the ‘norm’ for me, sadly, but after I started paying more attention to my intuition, it began ringing louder and louder that my symptoms were stemming from my gut. After doing serious research on natural healing, I felt my eyes start opening…wide! Cutting out gluten, dairy, eggs, corn, and soy, eating whole, real foods and making a life-long commitment to a healthier lifestyle over the past 4 years were some of the best things that I have done. While it hasn’t yielded a pregnancy yet, I am confident that my body is in a healing process.

All of this research has made it much easier to understand the lifelong health challenges I have been facing, but the infertility obstacle still plagues my heart. I’m not going to lie – it is difficult to hear about everyone around me getting pregnant with absolutely nothing happening on my end. And, for this to happen year after year - it’s hurtful. But, I have to keep telling myself not to take it personal, but to be happy that they are bringing a beautiful miracle into this world. After I get out of my own head, that hurt goes away. And, I am truly happy for them, of course!

The disappointment month after month has slowly started to ease, but only because I have really leaned deeper into my faith. I am extremely grateful to God that He has shifted my path onto this beautiful wellness journey and keeps opening my eyes to new things on the daily; with this, my emotional scars are beginning to heal. I have a long way to go on my emotional healing path, but I feel so strongly that there is a gift in this challenge. Maybe it’s to help others facing similar obstacles or maybe my baby will be the gift that I am supposed to receive…I’d like to think it’s both!

I have grown exponentially on my health journey, and through this, I’m learning to dig deeper into my soul for healing. Making changes to what goes on my plate to nourish my physical body, and my future baby (yes, I am speaking this into existence!) is something that is unbelievably important to me. The tie to what goes on our plates and our health is inarguably connected. Whether it is allergies or infertility, food and drink are key players in the healing game.

Focusing on prayer, meditation, energy healing, resting, hydrating, cleansing, breathing and many other things are paramount to lean into when trying to conceive. I have been incorporating (more) of these natural healing methods into my lifestyle, and while the pregnancy hasn’t happened yet, in my heart, I know that they are helping on many levels. I still have a lot to learn, but from what I have already learned, I know that I am being equipped to help others on their journey!

Thanks 

Annette Licitra

Integrative Health Coach + Wellness Chef

630.965.6454

Passionette Palate

http://passionettepalate.com/

*Schedule an appointment with me here*: https://www.vyte.in/annette@passionettepalate.com

Secrets to having a intervention free pregnancy

The Secret to having a intervention free birth

More women are looking into natural birth these days. I love it. I have noticed no matter your back ground, your culture the women are more interest in the benefits it offer not just them but baby.

every woman has a reason for their journey into the natural. Some are drawn because they were raised in a family full of natural living people, lifestyle changes and because it seems like the trend amongst the crunchy parents. it truly doesn't matter which is your reasoning. what's most important is that you know what your goal is and you have a support system to make it attainable. The funny thing is everybody idea of what natural is appears to be different. To be honest what you consider natural is your opinion. Know your limits in the labour and birthing process. If you set a goal higher than you truly believe you can achieve you can come out on the other end of the birth feeling disappointed. we tend to be harsher on ourselves than we should be.

Birth is a very beautiful experience and preparing for it is such an intimate process. think about it. during the entire process you are developing a beautiful relationship with your baby while in the womb. We learn our babies personality and corks during the preparation time. baby let you know when you fatigued, over doing it, need to eat and need to prepare for their arrival. I loved the process.

you have to have a positive out look no matter your symptoms, experience with those around you and what your physical body look like. When you think pregnancy in the start your excited and eager to get started with the journey. You know you may gain a lot of weight but you don't know how your body with respond to the over all process. This is why I have a few tips to assist in the intervention free experience.

How you are before the pregnancy start can tell you many things:

here are some questions to consider.

1. will I feel out of control?

2. will I be able to submit to the experience?

3. will I be able to let my body work naturally?

4. Can I rely on my body?

5. am I comfortable in my own skin?

6. can  receive help without rejecting or trying to take over

I have a talk I do titled the 7 secrets to having an intervention free birth. The tips aren't difficult they are just things that most have a issue handling or identifying.

1.       Mentality (meditation/visualization/

 Pregnancy is hormonal and so staying positive is important. I always advise families to sort through your stuff before labour and delivery because emotion can translate through your pregnancy and labour. If you have unresolved stresses, angers, family issues this all can affect the way your pregnancy will play out as well as your labour.

To clear your mind and prepare for this journey of a life time I advise you to work on meditation, visualization and daily affirmations. I just started to provide affirmations for Mom and Dad for pregnancy, Labour and delivery. Your mental state is so important. If you are not mentally sound this can also affect your postpartum recovery. I also am a firm believer if your mental state is the healthiest than how can you positively receive support.  

2.       Support
Every woman who is looking to conceive or expecting their partner need to understand the importance of their support.
 The comfort you experience knowing that your spouse, parents and friends are supportive and willing to be a part of your experience in what ever way is needed is very comforting.

All of this is very helpful to Mom and will give a breath of fresh air before delivery. This will allow Mom t enjoy pregnancy with out the huge list of tasks. I always suggest creating a pregnancy and postpartum task list for family and friends. be specific with time slots so there is no confusion or disturbances while your home resting with the baby.The funny thing is in North America we are so behind culturally with pregnancy and the birthing experience how can we expect our culture to be understanding of the postpartum experience. In some cultures the Mom is not allowed to do anything. the family will come in and care for the house and family until her healing and bonding process is complete. In Asia, India and Africa the village come together to make sure you are prepared to care for your new addition and family without any relapse. We are still behind in breastfeeding and maternity leave. we are even behind with paternity leave. that's right men are allowed time off of work to help the Mom. If your partner can stay home for at least 2 weeks you decrease your chances of postpartum depression significantly.

3.       Relaxation (yoga/ massage/
spend time relaxing. Anything that is mentally soothing and physically calming. If you do not have any allergies aromatherapy is great. A little lavender goes a long way when you put a couple drops in a defusor or hot tub of water. It is ok to use during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Get prenatal massage and frequent a prenatal yoga class as often as your schedule will allow.   

4.       Mobility (walk/ exercise)  A walk around the blog is great. There are pregnancy and Mommy groups that you can join so you can have someone to walk with the same journey a head as you.

5.       Chiropractic (joint and structural health

6.       Nutrition ( eat for preventative health, healing in food ( helps with hormonal balance, anxiety, hydration etc..

7.       Doula 

 When you hire a doula we are there to decrease your chances of C-section, Pitocin, epidural and we increase your chances of a natural labour an delivery. We assist you in staying the course with your birth plan within reason. We help you with any information you need to make decisions about your birthing experience. We also help you to trust your body and find a healthy place mentally during the pregnancy, labour and delivery. We help with any resources you may need during your journey. We also assist with your transition from hospital to home during those postpartum stages. Having a Doula allows you to not free to experience without stress the beautiful journey of birthing.

I love watching the families transform and grow. Each woman that has delivered I have witnessed them turn into what I call a womb warrior.  Birth turns you into the most resilient woman you will ever become without having to experience a trauma.

For questions about hire Peace Birthing Doula for Birth Doula or Postpartum Support, Placenta Encapsulation and Massage please visit www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com  or (630)481-6079


Tunisia Macklin DONA(CD), Placenta Encapsulator, Massage Therapist

Fabulous almost 40 and fertile

Fabulous 40 and Fertile

I remember when trying to conceive at 38 years old my O.B. who I must say is the best.

Dr. Beister told me as long as I stay healthy without complications along the way she would support me with my journey for as long as I wanted to try.

I'm pleased to say we conceived when I was 39 years old. My O.B. still support our journey of conception if we would like to continue the journey. I am now 41 years old with a beautiful daughter and would love to continue my journey and I still have the support of my O.B.

 My advice will always stay the same find a physician who will be honest, genuine and supportive. You can shop around for the best fit for you.  Now, I must say be realistic in your request; conception is serious keep your health, your spouse & family in mind.

 I have been there and know what a family can go through. I had an ectopic and my fallopian tube ruptured. Do all the necessary exams to ensure the health of your reproductive organs.

Every O.B. you interview must be on the same page with you for care and labour and delivery. Discuss your idea of labour and delivery. Do the research stand your ground.  Also, Know the truth about your request, know the risks and know the hospital procedure for your request.

Everything you think is fantasy or unreal may in fact be a reality for you during this journey.
One thing I advise to families when I meet with them is to sit down and think about the most fanciful labour and delivery they can come up with and then we will discuss how we can make that fantasy a reality using realistic methods. I worked with a family this past January that blessed me so much with being a part of their best and most intimate moment. The Mother at the time of delivery was 49 years old. Yes, you read it right. I said “49 years old”. They had a beautiful baby girl.

Know this your journey doesn’t have to be over. Yes, you may have to have help. Look into your options. There are so many ways you can be helped if natural conceptions isn’t realistic for you. Speak to a fertility Dr. check into IUI and IVF. Believe it or not your medical insurance may cover some or all of the process. We were so blessed you have BCBS and they covered almost the entire IVF process.  

If you haven’t read my Blog, it takes a village I suggest you do. It will give a little direction on who you should look into as your team to prepare you for this journey.

A Doula is a great way to start with building your team.
Tunisia Macklin
Peaceful Birthing Doula
Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women
http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com
(630)481-6079

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

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Visit my website www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com