Episode 186: Healing, Self-Care, and Support for New Moms with Kristy Vicari
Hey Mamas!
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie talks with Kristy Vicari, a mother coach, doula, nutritionist, and yoga teacher. Kristy shares her experiences with three home births and her journey into motherhood, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, breathwork, and community support. She discusses the challenges of balancing professional commitments with parenting and highlights the significance of self-care and open communication between partners. Kristy's coaching program, "Empowered Mama," aims to help mothers live authentically and confidently. The episode underscores the value of seeking help and building supportive communities to help you navigate the complexities of motherhood.
Kristy Vicari’s Background and Approach
Kristy Vicari's multifaceted background as a mothers' coach, doula, nutritionist, and yoga teacher has profoundly shaped her approach to supporting mothers. With three boys aged 18, 15, and 12, Kristy's experiences with home births and her dedication to natural birthing processes have empowered her to guide other mothers through their journeys.
Kristy's positive experiences with home births highlight the empowerment and control mothers can feel during the birthing process. She emphasizes the importance of staying focused on breath and positive aspects rather than succumbing to fear.
Practicing yoga and mindfulness can help maintain a calm and centered mindset during labor. Kristy's dedication to yoga during her pregnancies played a crucial role in her ability to stay present and focused.
Sleepless Nights and Learning Curves
Kristy candidly shares the overwhelming nature of sleepless nights and the steep learning curve that comes with caring for a newborn. She emphasizes the importance of perspective, noting that challenges in the moment can often be looked back on as simpler times once more children arrive. The significance of community support cannot be overstated. Kristy recalls how a close friend helped her navigate tough times, such as dealing with mastitis while caring for three young children.
Understanding that early motherhood challenges are temporary can help mothers maintain a positive outlook. Actively seeking and nurturing a supportive community can provide much-needed assistance and emotional support during challenging times.
The Importance of Being Present
Kristy explains that anxiety often stems from worrying about the past or the future. She encourages mothers to focus on the present moment through grounding techniques such as breathwork and spending time in nature.
Spending time outdoors with children fosters curiosity and joy, allowing for a more positive parenting experience. Kristy emphasizes that being outdoors can help alleviate feelings of overwhelm and create a calming environment for both mother and child.
Incorporating breathwork and mindfulness into daily routines can help mothers stay present and reduce anxiety. Regular outdoor activities can enhance the overall well-being of both mothers and children.
Posture, Breathwork, and Nutrition
Kristy highlights the importance of posture, breathwork, and nutrition in preparing for labor. She shares how she was able to create a calming environment for each birth, including her desire for a water birth in her second pregnancy.
Focusing on posture, breathwork, and nutrition can significantly impact the birthing experience. Personalizing the birthing environment to suit individual preferences can enhance the overall experience.
Challenges of Doula Work
Kristy reflects on the challenges of balancing her professional commitments with motherhood. She recalls instances where she had to bring her children to clients during labor because they refused to take a bottle, highlighting the difficulties of managing her doula work while breastfeeding.
Due to the unpredictability of labor and the need for reliable backup support, Kristy shifted her focus away from attending births and toward roles that allowed for more control over her schedule. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and prioritizing well-being.
Finding a balance between professional commitments and motherhood requires flexibility and adaptability. Mothers should prioritize their well-being and recognize the importance of self-care in maintaining overall health and happiness.
Customizing Routines
Kristy encourages mothers to embrace their individuality and customize their routines to fit their lifestyles, rather than trying to replicate what works for others. She emphasizes the importance of communication between partners regarding parenting responsibilities.
Customizing routines to suit individual lifestyles can enhance the overall parenting experience. Maintaining open communication with partners about expectations and support is crucial for a harmonious parenting journey.
Healing and Self-Care
Kristy highlights the significance of the "fourth trimester," reminding mothers that healing and self-care are crucial after childbirth. She encourages mothers to prioritize their needs and seek support during this transitional period. Focusing on healing and self-care during the fourth trimester is essential for a smooth transition into motherhood. Actively seeking support and resources can help mothers navigate the challenges of the postpartum period.
Kristy notes that modern society often leaves mothers feeling isolated. She encourages mothers to seek out their "tribe" and build connections with others who understand their experiences. This sense of belonging can significantly ease the challenges of motherhood and enhance the overall experience. Building a supportive community of like-minded individuals can provide emotional and practical support. Recognizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, can empower mothers to reach out for support.
Kristy's insights and experiences offer a wealth of knowledge for mothers navigating the complexities of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. By embracing mindfulness, establishing routines, prioritizing self-care, and building supportive communities, mothers can enhance their overall well-being and create a positive parenting experience. Kristy's message of empowerment and connection serves as a reminder that mothers are not alone in their journey and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
For more resources and support, consider connecting with Kristy through her coaching program, "Empowered Mama," and explore her courses designed to help mothers reclaim their time and set healthy boundaries.
Together, we can navigate the beautiful journey of motherhood with greater ease and joy.
Connect more with Kristy Vicari:
Website: www.kristymia.com
Instagram: @kristymiaco
Facebook: Kristy Mia
Relevant Links:
>> Unmedicated Birth Preparation Guide
>> First Trimester Nutrition Guide
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