10 Natural Ways to Ease PMS

Yesterday I was possessed. Not by some mythical creature, alien life form, or demon from the depths of Hell...well maybe it was a demon. (Men keep reading...this information could save your life too)

I should start by saying I've become a pretty patient person, but please don't ask my husband to confirm that. Actually, for a woman living in a household with 4 boys (yes the hubby is included in this count) I should get Sainthood for all the shenanigans I have to put up with.

I deal with never-ending piles of clothes on the bathroom, bedroom, and family room floors. I barely make a peep about the sticks, balls and Legos that I pick up each day, only to have them "mysteriously" reappear in another room minutes later. I've even gotten used to repeating what I just said 4 times without going to my "Black Momma" voice. ("White Mommas" have this voice too, it just requires a little less neck movement)

N-E-WAYS....the point is, I almost never lose my cool, until about 12 hours before my monthly fertility reminder comes to town, and stirs up a whole bunch of shit.

Last night it was like some ranting and raving lunatic had taken over my body and I could barely keep it together. Little things that I would have shrugged off sent me flying into the stratosphere, crashing back down to crazy Bitchville (which is not nearly as zen as Granolaville).

I could see myself being an utter nutcase, but somehow couldn't stop it. PLEASE tell me I'm not the only one who has had these moments? If you haven't experienced the cramps, headaches, bloating, sugary cravings, depression, or high-flying mood swings than consider yourself lucky.

It is estimated that 50% of ALL women experience PMS, or premenstrual syndrome. That's a whole lot of unstable, doughnut eating ladies!

While not everyone shares the same PMS symptoms, it can be difficult for most women to find relief.

NEVER FEAR! I was a Googling freak this morning trying to find easy and natural ways you can deal with this stressful time and hopefully NOT have it end in your kids toys being thrown out, or your husband sleeping on the couch, indefinitely.

10 Secrets to Easing PMS

1.   Steer clear of sugar. Giving in to your sweet tooth could result in hypoglycemia, which is an abnormal drop of sugar in your blood once the tasty treat has left your system, leaving you feeling more irritable and lethargic than before.

2. Avoid alcohol. I know knocking back a glass of wine, or a Baily's Irish Cream with milk (not that I would know) might seem like a good idea to relieve stressful feelings, but since alcohol is a depressant you might end up feeling worse than you did. Also, "it disrupts the liver's ability to metabolize hormones, which can lead to higher-than-normal estrogen levels."

3. Stay away from salt. Eating foods high in sodium can increase water retention, causing bloating and breast tenderness.

4. Move your body. Aerobic exercise causes a release in happy hormones called endorphins that can help elevate your mood.

5. Get some rest. Interrupting your normal sleep pattern can make your fuse shorter than normal. Make sure to get a proper night of rest, some of these tips may help.

6. Calcium. Women with low levels of calcium have been shown to have a decrease in symptoms when taking this supplement.

7. Chaste Tree Berry. This South East Asian herb is very popular in Europe for reducing breast tenderness

8. Magnesium. This mineral naturally occurring in foods like black beans, peanuts, broccoli, and spinach has been shown to improve mood swings.

9. Evening Primrose Oil. This little flower has many uses, including aiding in ripening the cervix to induce labor, but for PMS it seems to only be backed up by anecdotal evidence of its efficacy. Never the less, many women throughout the world swear by its benefits.

10. St. John's Wort. For centuries, the flowering plant St. John's wort was used as a health remedy in Europe. Today, St. John's wort is best-known as a treatment for depression.

Do you have any secret remedies for easing PMS?

Regaining My Sanity in Granolaville, 

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P.P.S. For personalized support throughout your pregnancy check out Soulfueled Mama!

Thoughtful Thursday: If Anything Were Possible, What Would You Do?

I've never seen the movie The Bucket List, but it got me thinking...why should you have to wait until you are on death's door to tackle your fears and live the life of your dreams?

There's no simple answer. For some of us it's fear of the unknown. We're afraid that a new experience won't live up to our expectations or afraid of not knowing everything that will happen.

Then there are those who don't believe in themselves or their ability reach their goals. These people write off their dreams as nice, but impossible.

I fall into the category of people who are overwhelmed by the amount of things they want to accomplish. I tend to start projects, but never finish them. Creating this site is one of the first things I've done in the last 2 years that I planned in my mind and heart, which came to fruition.

It continues to grow with readers like you, who are excited about sharing their natural living journey and I'm so grateful for the space it has given me to share the things I'm passionate about.

But Granolaville and my Doula services are just the beginning. I have so many ideas, projects, and goals I want to accomplish I find it hard to concentrate on just one. I need more order and structure in my life to allow the creativity to be focused on one thing at a time.

But first I need to believe. I need to come from a place of infinite possibilities, in alignment with how the Universe really works.

I need to ignore that little voice who says "It's too much or too big," to accomplish. Actually, I need to tell that voice o shut the hell up.

There are inspiring people all over the world who have defied odds and created a life of passion and purpose.

So what would you do, if there were no barriers or obstacles? Could you open yourself up to ALL the possibilities to create the life you were born to live?

If you new that nothing was out of your reach, how would you approach your job? If you knew anything could happen how would that change the way you think, speak, and act?

I can tell you from first hand experience, when you come from a place of love and knowing that all you need, can be yours, doors will open to places you never imagined.

So let's start. Write a list of 4 experiences you want to have. They can be big or small.

For each item you want to accomplish write underneath it ONE thing you can do to get closer to making it happen. That way you aren't just throwing out "wishes" all willy-nilly. By attaching something actionable and concrete to it, it becomes more of a reality and less of a fantasy.

Here's the first 4 things on my Never Say Never List:

1. Pay off all Debt, including our mortgage.

• Make smart spending choices including joining a CSA next season, eating out less, and sticking to our family budget.

2. Make Granolaville.com a hub for women sharing holistic health information and inspiration.

• Write and share quality content, everyday!

3. Write and direct a documentary on a topic I'm passionate about.

• Vlog once a week to sharpen my skills and share my knowledge with a large audience.

4. Meet and work with Oprah.

•  Continue on my path to teach and serve (throwing in some prayer for good measure!)

So there are just a few of the goals I wish to accomplish in the next 3-5 years. You can start out with more immediate goals or look more long term. Just make sure whatever is on your list will motivate and inspire you, because ANYTHING IS possible!

What are the top 3 goals on your "Never Say Never" list?

Open to the possibilities in Granolaville, 

 

Wellness Wednesday: The 3 Secrets to Shaping a Healthy Life

For months we've been talking about all the things you can do to achieve optimal holistic wellness. From creative and inexpensive ways to get a fat burning workout, to eating healthy on a dime, and 7 mantras that can change your life, creating a healthy lifestyle is just a matter of time and dedication.

If you are just starting your journey towards holistic and natural wellness you might not have a clear picture of what it is.

Obviously wellness is going to mean different things for different people, depending on life circumstances. But the key is to find what works best for you.

Now for the question at hand: What is Wellness?

To me wellness means finding a healthy balance of mind, body and soul. Each of those aspects deserve the same amount of attention.

1. Be Mindful

Life can get crazy. Which means it's very easy to get swept up in DOING, instead of just BEING. Our minds are constantly analyzing, remembering, strategizing, computing, and taking is loads of information . It can get exhausting. Learning to clear your mind through meditation can help you get rid of the "noise" and focus what is really important to you.

Having a clear mind also allows you to let go of whatever might be causing you stress, which can impact your physical health if gone unchecked.

2. Love your Body

Fitness products and "health" foods are billion dollar industries, but we can get caught up in the latest trend and forget that sometimes simpler is better. Achieving wellness in your body is a matter of getting out what you put in. When you consciously eat real foods you are giving your body permission to operate in a way that will make you feel alive with energy.

Your body WANTS to be healthy-- it yearns for healthy fats, whole vitamins, proteins, and minerals. And when you give it what it needs it WON'T fail you.

In addition to nourishing your body with healthy food, it also needs a moderate amount of activity. Luckily "working out" doesn't have to mean pricey gym memberships. Use the world around you. If you can break a sweat for just 20 minutes a day doing things like gardening, cleaning your house from top to bottom, or playing out in the yard with your kids, you'll have gotten in your "exercise" without making it feel like a chore.

3. Listen to your Spirit

When I talk about spirit I'm not speaking of your religious affiliation or even the higher power you may or may not believe in. I'm talking about YOUR spirit.

We often like to place blame on external factors for what's going on in our lives. "My boss sucks, my husband doesn't understand, my kids are out of control, my mother did this to me what I was a child." Deflecting our attention to others can  relieve some tension for a time, but those uncomfortable feeling always seem to return.

Instead, we can all benefit from turning inward to see what's stopping us from achieving wellness. Holding on to anger, not acknowledging fear, or ignoring sadness can manifest physically if not examined. Letting go of pain, learning to love yourself unconditionally, and seeing the joy around you can start you on a path to finding wellness in the rest of your life.

We all deserve to have a fulfilling and healthy life. Figuring out what wellness looks like for you is the first step to making it happen.

Which of these 3 areas are most challenging for you?

Finding a Balance in Granolaville, 

Thoughtful Thursday: Are Your Ready To Get "UnStuck"?

The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks
into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.
- Mark Twain

The first words of anything I write are usually the hardest and most painstaking. I usually re-write the first sentence over and over again, holding down the backspace until the page is blank once again.

In most areas of my life I'm a "fly by the seat of my pants"/ "throw caution to the wind" kind of gal. I don't plan much, but once I get the the spark of an idea, I tackle it... almost immediately.

But when I begin the process of writing something new I seem to over-analyze, second guess, and become stuck in the fear that it isn't perfect from the start. 

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - Lao Tzu

I remember when I came up with the idea of creating Granolaville. I had a vision, in my head of what it would look like, the kind of content we would share, and the importance of building a community of natural living, crunchy peeps, like myself. I spent 4 months designing the page you are looking at right now.

I tweaked colors schemes, layouts, heading names until I felt I had gotten it just right. Meanwhile, I couldn't put together one single post to save my life! My husband told me not to worry about the presentation--- if the content was good people would read it anyway.

I told him that's not how I rolled.

I needed to have a physical outline to get my creative juices flowing---an empty Word document just wasn't going to cut it. Once I got started creating content for Granolaville each post got easier and easier. But from time to time I still struggle with those first words.

Case in point: I told myself once school was back in session for my rambunctious boys, I would begin work on a project I am REALLY passionate about, and that I believe, will bring support and value to a lot of women.

But here is my issue...my brain won't let the words flow until I have a title for this currently unnamed work. The title of this series, for me, is like that first corner piece you use in a puzzle that frames the outer edge. Without it I'm just haplessly trying to fit together all the wrong middle pieces.

I'm SO ready to move forward with this project, now its just a matter of clearing my mind, taking a deep breath, and allowing the creativity to flow. I have to let go of my desire for perfection, choose a title (even if it IS temporary) and not use this one stumbling block as a reason to procrastinate.

To change ones life: Start immediately. Do it flamboyantly.
- William James 

Life can be overwhelming. Juggling, what seems like, a million responsibilities. But, if we are able to just tackle one small piece of the puzzle, each day, before we know it we will be able to step back and look at the masterpiece we've created.

So get started! Begin that craft project you've been meaning to do, start that clean eating plan you've been meaning to follow, register for that class that will help you get your degree. It's the small steps lead to greatness!

Are you ready to get unstuck in whatever part of your life that's holding you back? Share your thoughts below.

Getting Started in Granolaville, 

Wellness Wednesday: Finding the JOY in Wellness

When I was a little girl there was nothing I looked forward to more than my weekly classes at Ms.Wendy Cutting's Dance studio. I was about 4 when my love for being on stage and shaking my hips converged as I performed in front of my community.

It was one of the best feelings in the world. As I made my way into middle school, my level of technique got kicked up a notch when I joined the preprofessional program at the world renowned Dance Theater of Harlem, in NYC.

They look like super heroes.

I was among the sickest, most gorgeously toned men and women, who had worked for years to hone their craft. I always looked at them in awe. Not only did they have the physiques of Greek Gods and Goddess', but their blistered toes and bruised...everything...never seemed to matter. Through their movement you could see the joy that shined from within.

I felt the same way about dance. I didn't mind doing the same steps over, and over, because I knew when it was performance time the synergy that my class created would bring people to their feet.

In college my best friend and I were pretty much known as "those girls" at our local hangout, the Metro. Not cuz we were slutty (only a little) but because the party didn't start until we got there. Every Wednesday night, as soon as our feet touched the floor our hips were shaking. It was like a school dance, once one person started having fun it gave everyone else permission to do the same.

We would request our favorite songs (Jill, remember how I'm a Slave for You would make us loose our shit?), grab our drink and dance until they closed up shop. It was one of the most fun and freeing times in my life and ALWAYS the highlight of my week.

Now, as an adult, dance for me has become a way to release energy and de-stress. I'm the first one to get excited about going to a wedding because I know I'll get to get on that dance floor. I no longer have the lean toned body of a ballerina, but there's something about rhythmic moving to music that helps me to let go of my worries, smile, and burn a crapload of calories.

Here are some of the AH-Mazing health benefits of dance:

• It can boost your memory
• Improve flexibility
• Reduce Stress
• Diminish Depression
• Help Your Heart
• Lose Weight
• Better Balance
• Increase Energy
• Make Friends

So maybe a traditional gym isn't the best way for me to get the body I desire. Maybe pointing my toes, doing grand plies, or shaking my goove thang is more my speed.

Taking care of your body and mind shouldn't be a painful experience. If you love nature then take hike up the steepest mountain you can climb. If you loves animals, run with your dog. If sports are your fancy then find a local pick-up league. If you love sitting on your couch eating Rice Krispy Treats while watching the Bachelorette, well....you've got some stuff to figure out. ;-)

Why not create wellness in your life WHILE doing something you love? 

What's ONE thing that makes you happy AND keeps you healthy? Share it below!

Getting my Groove on in Granolaville,

Wellness Wednesday: 10 Ways Getting "Your Sexy Back" Improves Your Health

I'm a HUGE fan of Justin....Timberlake, that is. Before there was all this "Bieber Fever" I had "N'SANITY" for him and his merry band of clean-cut dancing boys. Granted, no one ever used that term, but I think it suits them well.

Now that N'SYNC fans are pushing their mid-thirties, it seems a little odd for anyone of us to be getting all hot n' bothered over some gyrating hips and sweet harmonies. As women, we've grown and realized we need something a little bit steamer than a kid who's face is a smooth as my toddlers ass.

I mean really, Justin Bieber looks like a sweet-faced lesbian.

Many women have been hard-pressed (or not hardly pressed enough, hehehe) to find time to get back their own sexual swag. (I'm trademarking that one too).

Ladies of the world today are hustling. Whether we are raising kids, running a multi-million dollar company, or working more jobs than a Jamaican, time is limited. I can bet most of us have a laundry list of things to do and I'll bet getting good action between the sheets, is NOT a top priority.

With all the hype around the literotica book Fifty Shades of Grey (which I loathe, but more on that in a minute) and the movie Magic Mike (which would've watched it WITHOUT the sound) I think A LOT of women have awoken some feelings that might have been dormant underneath piles of dirty dishes and diapers.

Good GOD I can't stare at this picture too long.

Channing Tatum half nekkid, showing off his dance moves is enough to get me hot and bothered. I mean really that man can do no wrong---he went from Step it Up to the romantic lead in The Vow, and now he's shaking his money maker as a moonlighting stripper. That's what I call talent!

Sorry, what were we talking about? Oh right getting YOUR sexy back.

Here's the thing ladies, sexual wellness is JUST as important as eating right, getting exercise, and 8 hours of sleep each night. You might not read that in any medical journal but this crunchy mama wouldn't lie to you.

Think about the euphoria that bursts from within when you've had a good...long, romp in the hay. Hell, even a "git 'er done" short session can hit the spot. Whether it's quantity or quality you are looking for, a healthy sex life is good for you---mind, body, and soul.

It's so great that women are open enough to talk about devouring erotic fiction like Fifty Shades....on Facebook nonetheless. I am all for you being inspired to get your freak on in the freakiest way that you and your partner consent to. But for the love of all that is holy---PLEASE read better literature than that train wreck of soft-core porn, where the only way a meek, self conscious young girl (who's actually 21) can get off is to be dominated by a narcissistic prick.

Come on ladies you deserve better! Once again, I digress.

Back to you. I want YOU to be as sexually fulfilled as I know every husband in America was the night their wife watched Matthew McConaughey's dripping abs flex all over that dance floor.

Mmm, mmm, mmmmmmm.

 In order to convince you of the importance of ample sexy time here are 9 Ways Getting Your Sexy Back Can Improve Your Health:

1. SEX relieves stress and lowers your blood pressure. Who needs a yoga class, this stuff is free!
2. It can help strengthen your immune system. The more you "get some" the more antibodies called immunoglobulin A your body makes which can ward off cold viruses and other infections
3. Thirty minutes of sex can burn up to 85 calories. Say goodbye to the treadmill!
4. Knockin boots improves your heart health. A study found that men who had sex more than twice a week were 50% less likely to have a heart attack. (You could save your man's life!)
5. Great sex boosts your self esteem. I know when I've rocked my husband's world I feel pretty damn good about myself.
6. Orgasms help create intimacy. As if the act of showing your man every dip and valley of your body wasn't revealing enough---climaxing releases the love hormone called oxytocin which stimulates bonding and trust.
7. Sex reduces pain. No more using the old "I have a headache" excuse, oxytocin is also a natural pain reliever.
8. Getting your groove on (sorry I'm running out of terms) also helps you sleep better. Just look at any man after sex, ever.
9. Strong pelvic floor muscles. If you are over the age of 40 or you've had children you know that sometimes a hearty sneeze or laugh can send an uncomfortable amount of moisture to your pants. Tightening your pelvic floor with kegals during sex can help you avoid future wetness. No more pee-pee pants!!!!

So there you have it. All the reasons why you should put down your phone, turn off the computer and go jump someones bones. Your health depends on it!

On a scale of 1-10, 1 being the priority, where does sex fall for you?

Feeling Frisky in Granolaville, 

Natural Mom Monday: The Breast Feeding Break-up

I think I've reached my limit. I really wasn't sure this day would ever come. I mean, I thought he would be kicking ME to the curb before I was ever ready to see it end.

But I think it's time. Time to break-up with my baby.

Shit, he knows its coming.

OK, since little Nolan is only 19 months I can't quite pack up his belongings and send him off to his new place with clean sheets and meals for a month. That'll be next week. However, I have come to the conclusion that the relationship he has with my breasts is no longer working for me.

I used to LOVE nursing. It was this special time where my baby and I could bond over a warm beverage. It was like our own coffee talk.

"Talk amongst yourselves, any topic will do"

It was great relationship, that was mutually beneficial. He got the comfort, nourishment, and closeness a child can only get from his mother (no offense dads or grandmas). And I got the satisfaction of knowing my baby was getting the best stuff in town--antibodies to help his immune system and all the "good" fat to keep him plump and healthy. Not to mention those 500 extra calories mama got to burn with each feeding, now that's what I call a WIN-WIN!

Birthday parties, long car rides, sporting events or trips to the supermarket were never a concern. Since I always carried my "momma milk" fully stocked and ready to go anytime he needed it. I never had to worry about heating up bottles or finding "clean" water. Breast feeding had become the most convenient, ecomonical, and personally satisfying choice I had made, this 3rd time around.

How can we say good bye to the good times?

SO why do I want to stop, you ask? Simply put..I'm touched out!

If you are a mom, or a woman with a very clingy partner, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

In my case, it comes after a few days of my 6 year old using me as a chair and/or jungle gym 24/7, in addition to a toddler who wants nothing more than to nurse all through the night, while I'm on the toilet, or making dinner.

I don't want to sound like a callous bitch---but I'm SO sick of being grouped, fondled, and hung on by my children I'm about to crack!!!

That doesn't sound very "holistic" to me Nacia. Thank goodness I never claimed to be perfect.

I love my kids more than life itself. I would die for them, clean up poop for them, or dress a Power Ranger, if it made them happy. But there comes a point in a nursing mom-baby relationship when one person is on a booby shaped "Cloud 9", and the other is just feeling like a worn out cow. (I let you figure out which one I am.)

Here's the issue now....How do you ween your child from nursing (or at least night ween) without it being traumatic?

I asked this question a few weeks ago on Granolaville's Facebook page and I was BOMBARDED with loving tips, tricks, and experiences from my fellow crunchy mommas. The general consensus was consistency and commitment, two things I have been SEVERELY lacking.

It's just SO easy to give in a slap a boob in his mouth when he becomes fussy that I'm dreading the alternative....letting him cry.

Now I'm not opposed to a few tears being shed, but when I hear the soft whispers of "peees, peees" and the sign language gesture to go along with it, I cave.

I will say that I DID get him to fall asleep a few nights in a row without nursing, but an hour or two later he was back for more.

So it's time. It's time I take back my key, pack up his shit, and tell him its OVA! I know he'll come crawling back, begging me for just "1 more time". He'll promise to change, only nursing when its night night time or when he has a boo-boo.

I have to stand strong, I have to make a clean break and let him know the gravy train (milk train?) has ended. But how do you have the "It's not YOU, it's ME conversation with someone this damn cute?

Tonight I'm trying something my Holistic Mom friend suggested---- letting him sleep with daddy. We did it once before. I slept in my bed and my husband slept with Nolan on the couch. And ya know what???? He slept THE WHOLE NIGHT THROUGH.

I'm hoping after a week of doing this he'll at least be able to get through the night without nursing. Then this lady will get a normal nights rest and won't be SO tense about being a self-service fountain during the day.

Baby steps.

Has this method worked for you? What's your advice for a successful breast feeding breakup?

Breaking-up is hard to do in Granolaville,

Natural Mom Monday: Kourtney Kardashian- A New Baby & Natural Birthing Guru?

As you may, or may not be aware, sister #2 of the Kardashian trifecta gave birth yesterday morning to a healthy baby girl. Penelope Scotland Disick was born naturally-- weighing in at 7 pounds 14 ounces, to mommy Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick.

Though I'm not a fan of their mega hit show, nor do I get the hype surrounding who Kim is dating, I find it fascinating that a woman, like Kourtney, who's last name is synonymous with glitz, glam, and, let's face it, superficiality, has become this shiny, air-brushed, beacon of hope for the natural birthing community.

Is anyone as confused as I am?

OK, so on the outside Kourtney certainly does not embody my vision of über crunchy momma. I mean really who wears heels that high? But, when digging a little deeper, there may be more to her than a household last name and staged filmed family drama.

I, like you, would have envisioned the birth of her first child, Mason, to include all the spectacle of Kim's 5 minute wedding. However, it was shocking to me when I saw footage of the actual birth.

It took place in a calm, dimly-lit hospital room, surrounded by staff, her sisters, mama Kris, and Scott. The crazy part was---there was no screaming, no frantic nurses, or even much grunting. Kourtney pushed that baby out like a seasoned birther and caught him as he entered the world.

I don't know about you, but that shocked the shit out of me.

I couldn't believe someone so seemingly concerned about aesthetics (she put on a full face of make-up while in labor) could be so centered and in-tune with the way nature intended for babies to be born.

"...my experience last time was so peaceful and calm and everything you don't see in the movies. And I really wanted to share that with people so they knew it doesn't have to be a crazy screaming session."

YES! Thank you Kourtney for showing young women, all over the world, that birth doesn't have to be this scary, dangerous, or hell even painful experience. Don't get me wrong, birth is hard work. It requires mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual strength. If done naturally magnify that 10 fold. But here's a little secret----women were MADE for it!

All of the mental and physical qualities needed to complete this amazing, miraculous deed are in each and every one of us. We are stronger and more kick-ass than the media would have us believe. Obviously Kourtney didn't buy into the hype surrounding birth....and her family damn near created the word!

There seems to be a growing community, among female celebrities, who are abandoning medicated deliveries, and in some cases, even the hospital. Giselle Bundchen, Idina Menzel, Nicole Richie, Jessica Alba, and Halle Berry all gave birth to their babes with nothing more than a push and a prayer. Actresses Alyson Hannigan, Demi Moore, Alanis Morissette, and of course Ricki Lake delivered their babies in the comfort of their home.

Now, I'm not one to follow celebrity trends (who the hell thought Ugg's were EVER OK?), but showing women their power in birth is something I can definitely stand behind!

I applaud Miss K. for becoming such a public advocate of natural birth and breast feeding. In her blog she shared how much she enjoyed extended nursing, and only weened, her now 2 year old son Mason, once the time felt right, saying, "I seriously could cry just thinking about it being over."

Kourtney Kardashian and baby Mason

Hopefully, by Kourtney sharing her birth experiences with Mason, and now Penelope, she will help her millions of fans see the beauty and benefits of natural birthing. If not, at least we'll get some entertaining reality T.V.

Do you think celebrities have helped natural birthing and breast feeding become more "normal"?

Kommending Kourtney in Granolaville,

Natural Mom Monday: I was Wrong. Finding Freedom from Perfection

I think I may have unintentionally insulted or been insensitive to a lot of women last week. Part of my personality is that I'm not one to mince words. Which can be a good quality, but at times it can also come off as judgmental.

I posted an article about new scientific experiments on unborn children, that I wholeheartedly did not agree with. However, I think I was a bit cavalier about the pain that is caused by not being able to naturally conceive a child.

I am sorry if I hurt anyone dealing with the loss or inability to have a child.

My intention of shedding light on this story was not to insult anyone, but to say that I believe we have strayed SO far away from the natural order of things that we can not see the future ramifications. I do feel that ALL people should be able to become loving parents to a child, if they so choose, and I can see how my thoughts may have been harsh.

Starting down a path towards healthy or more holistic living is not easy.  As moms, its hard not compare yourself to what others are doing, wearing, and feeding their kids---especially in the holistic community.

I try to live my life as authentically as possible. Which sometimes means admitting I make mistakes (see above) and that I am NOT the poster mom for "Holistic Living", but I do my best.

Yes, sometimes my best is feeding my family a slew of processed foods because I was exhausted from running around and couldn't fathom boiling a pot of water, much less preparing a nutritious and delicious meal.

Sometimes that means forgetting my eco-friendly reusable water bottle and buying disposable ones that will, regrettably, clog up our landfills.

And sometimes that means, although I KNOW the overall benefits of extended breastfeeding I want to bind my lady lumps to my chest with duck tape if it means I don't have to be groped by a 19 month old in the middle of Target.

Suffice to say, I am not perfect. But there is an empowering freedom in admitting that. I don't know every homeopathic remedy or grow enough food in my garden to feed my family for a year, but I do the best I can do.

This is why I created Granolaville, so that no matter where you are on your holistic journey you could find comfort in knowing there is a community of people out there just like you----looking for a natural way, but sometimes falling short.

Accepting that we ALL are perfectly imperfect allows us to show kindness to ourselves and to others when we want to jump to conclusions or place judgement.

SO this week while celebrating the freedoms and independence that July 4th represents, give yourself the permission to let go of the need for perfection in whatever area of your life that needs it. Try your best, admit your mistakes and move on. 

Humbled in Granolaville,

Thoughtful Thursday: Embracing Change

To celebrate another change in the season, these quotes remind me that life is not a constant. Those who are able to rides its waves with passion, grace, and love can change the world.

Do you welcome change?

Embracing New Beginnings in Granolaville, 

Thoughtful Thursday: Finding Faith in Yourself

 Have you ever wondered, "Why is this happening to me?" The "this" is usually a set of difficult or sometimes even heartbreaking circumstances that have made their way into your life, wreaking havoc on your world.

I think we all have times in our life when we question God/Allah/the Universe/Mother Earth, what the greater purpose is for the daily suffering many of us encounter. We may believe that each hardship is a test to prove your faithfulness. We may view this imbalance as a coincidence, a random course of events, not predetermined or placed before us by some omniscient being. Or, perhaps, we believe that each manifestation of good, bad, or ugly is a direct result of our thoughts creating our reality.

The interview I watched yesterday confirmed, for me, the latter.

Marie Forleo

I've become a HUGE fan of Marie Forleo, an entrepreneur who has made it her mission to improve the hearts, minds, and pockets of women who are seeking independence in business. Her energy is infectious and her knowledge of what it takes to create the life you've always dreamed of is spot on.

I've been gorging on her YouTube videos for the last 2 weeks, soaking in each little tidbit and trying to figure out how I can apply it to my life and the hopeful success of Granolaville.com. All of her information is filled with the perfect balance of humor, candor, actionable items, and above all ...LOVE.

It should have been no surprise that she interviewed a WILDLY successful writer and entrepreneur, who created The Daily Love.com where he shares inspirational quotes from teachers, past and present, to over 500,000 subscribers and Twitter followers.

Mastin Kipp

Matsin Kipp, has had a varied, yet successful business career in his 28 years on earth. From creating the popular clothing line, Love Yourself Apparel, managing bands, writing for the Huffington Post, to most recently going on tour with......OPRAH's Life Class!

The guy has serious good fortune. Or does he?

In his interview with Marie, he talks about how only a few years ago he found himself in a really low place. He and his business partner had severed ties, investors backed out of his clothing company, his relationship with his girlfriend ended, he had gout in his foot ( gross old man infection), and lost his apartment.

Suffice to say, life was pretty shitty. 

An ex-girlfriend's mother had once told him if he were ever in need of a place to stay her 8x8 pool house could be his. To a single guy, living in a cosy pool house in the Hollywood Hills seemed like a viable option. Though he was surrounded by the lush abundance of his new home, he himself , felt quite deflated.

One day, while talking to the Universe, as he often did, Mastin said, "You created EVERYTHING. Why couldn't you hook me up with free rent at the Chateau Marmont?"

The answer he got back made me rewind the video just to hear it again:

"This room is the size of your faith. But it is enough."

Wow. Seriously wow.

After hearing those words, my head began to race. Yes, I do think we are a reflection of what we believe. For Mastin, his world had literally shrunken down to the bare minimums. I mean, he was running an internet company from his laptop with no internet, only "stolen" Wifi. He didn't have much going right at all.

I would assume such life-changing events like losing your home, companion, and livelihood is enough to shake anyone's faith in themselves, and in God.

Mastin's immediate surroundings were like a mirror to what he felt inside. He knew there was prosperity out in the world, he saw it daily from his pool house view. But, perhaps, he didn't have enough faith in himself to see all the possibilities to re-build his life.

Instead of giving up, he surrendered to his current situation and kept his eye on the prize. He was literally tweeting and emailing to live. Though he couldn't foresee exactly how his business would succeed, his incrementally growing faith in himself would sustain him.

What does this mean for you?

Look at your home, your job...hell even your car. Do the things in your life reflect what you truly feel you are worthy of?

Most of us might not want to admit it, but if you are driving a busted car, working at a dead-end, thankless job, are letting others treat you badly, or can't seem to take your business "to the next level" it may be because you have lost faith in your unlimited abilities.

We have to believe we are worthy, have faith in ourselves and our path in order to see the road ahead, not the other way around.

Don't be afraid to live out your dreams or strive for impossible goals. All things are possible if you have faith in yourself.





"If you knew you were already dead, you knew you had nothing to lose, and you knew anything was possible, what would you do?" ~ Matsin Kipp


Share your answer below!


Finding my faith in Granolaville,

Wellness Wednesday: Not Sure Why Yoga is Beneficial, Watch This!

I consider myself moderately fit and more flexible than the average person, but not as much as this chick.

I know that sounds like boasting, but I had years of dancing and sports that forced me to be supple. Believe me, without threats of injury or not being able to do a grand plie in ballet class, I would probably now be a stiff as a board. 

A few years ago I began doing yoga at home to help stretch out my muscles, which have increasingly become tighter since I stopped regular exercise. It was only recently I became SO aware of the true benefits of yoga for your mind and body.

I've taken a few classes with a local teacher who not only had my legs, arms, and butt feeling things they had never felt before, but it brought my mind and my soul to a place I didn't think I could get to in a warm, dimly-lit room with a bunch of strangers.

Yoga is like prayer for your body. You reflect, show gratitude and then guide your physical being through seemingly impossible poses until it becomes fluid and second nature.

I love how doing something so simple as standing still with hands clasped at your heart can feel like you are trying to fight against the gravity of the earth. I love how it quiets my constantly running mind and allows me to go to a place I'm usually too busy to visit. And I love how sleek and strong I feel after it. That being said, its one of the hardest workouts I have EVER done.

Then I came across this video and I seriously almost shit my pants. This women is my yoga crush. She has trained her muscles to do things that mine would laugh at.

Just watching her move makes me want to do downward dog all flippin' day. Check her out...I promise you will be in awe.



 

How do you practice mind-body wellness?

Getting my Plank on in Granolaville,

 

Thoughtful Thursday: Kid + Cell Phones, Not in My House

****I know this isn't the post I had scheduled in the Weekly Newsletter, but after my first birth as a doula last night, and nearly 16 hours, I didn't have it in me to write another post. So here's a oldie, but a goodie from Moms in Boyland. Hope you enjoy and I'll have that video update about the birth soon! ****

Remember when you were a kid, if you wanted to speak to a friend you had to call their house phone and pray that you didn't get a busy signal? Or when you wanted to tell your neighbor about the newest video game you had to actually walk over to his house and speak to him...in person!

Long gone are the days when human interaction actually involves human beings; instead we've been replaced with tweets, texts, emails, and remarkably long status updates. Our kids are now able to use technology in ways we never imagined. My 6 year old is savvy to Facebook etiquette. He once told his brother not to write a message to a girl he liked on her Facebook wall because then everyone would see it. Ah-mazing.

The fact that my 13 year old even has a Facebook page was something I grappled with for a long time. I understand that it has become an integral part of the way I connect with my friends and family. So after laying down MANY rules like "I will have access to your password", "No spreading gossip", and "Only going on after all homework is done", we let him get a Facebook page. I got major "cool" points for that one.

Now, I am the WORST mother in the world because EVERYONE in the 7th grade, but my son has a cellphone. I think its funny that he is dying for a phone, to call his friends that he would only call when he forgot to write down an assignment. I told my son if he needs to call his friends then use the ancient invention called the land line.

You would have thought I suggested going to school in his underwear by the look I got. Nothing irks me more then watching 10 year olds chatting on their iPhones. Here are my reasons for not giving my son a cell phone, especially a "smart" phone:

1. He doesn't want to call his friends, he only wants another way to "fit in". My job is to be his parent, not his accomplice in succumbing to peer pressure.

2. Heard of "sexting"? Now imagine your 12 year old getting propositioning messages or inappropriate pictures from the girl who wants to get his attention. What happened to passing notes?

3. He doesn't go anywhere without me or his father. If he did, for some reason and there was an emergency, there would be at least 10 other people around him with cell phones he could borrow.

4. PORN, at 4G speed. Enough said.

5. My son gets distracted from a barking dog while doing his homework. He doesn't  need another thing to steal his attention.

6. He loses...I mean "misplaces" everything.

7. Kids should be playing outside with other real kids, not pretending to play games with virtual friends.

8. The phones that he wants are expensive (I'm still trying to convince my husband why I need one).

9. It stunts their reading, writing, and social interaction skills. (WTF, LOL, ROTFL, I h8 doin, hw it totally sux.)

10. I want to raise an articulate child, not a texting zombie.

So if, and when I decide to get my son a cell phone it will have no texting ability, only be programmed with essential numbers, not be Internet capable and only be used for calling people...shocking I know. Once he has a job and is old enough to pay for a smart phone he can have any phone he wants. But, best believe if I call and it goes straight to voicemail, he will have one crazy mom on his hands.

What do you think the appropriate age is for a kid to get a cell phone?

No longer "cool" in Granolaville,

Thoughtful Thursday: Finding Acceptance Can Set You Free

 “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” ― Lao Tzu

Open Hands

I hate being a stay at home mom. Actually, I used to hate it. Two years ago I wanted nothing more than to have the job of my dreams land in my lap (that fantasy usually included a fabulous suit, HUGE pay check, and commuting to NYC where I was appreciated for the amazing work I did).

Reality was quite different.

I was out of work, once again. This time it was prompted by a pompous and condescending boss at a "means-to-an-end" bartending job. Though I was not sad to have ended my employment, I was immediately overcome with the pressure to provide for my family and have a "career".

I fought my new role as full-time wife and mom with all I had, applying to every writing job I could find --- anything that would take me away from the mountains of laundry and dirty dishes staring at me with judgement and disapproval. I went on interviews and had a few seemingly perfect opportunities fall through, which sunk me into a deep pool of self-pity.

Why couldn't I be as happy as those moms I would see picking their kids up from school? They're houses we're probably spotless, dinner was on the table at the appointed time, and their kids never ran out of clean underwear.

They seemed so happy with their role. I figured I could happy too--- if I just told myself over and over again how lucky I was to be able to be there for my kids everyday and not have the self-imposed guilt of working a full-time job. Many families struggle to live on 2 incomes, and here I was, able to stay home while my husband financially supported us.

Who the hell was I to complain?

So I put on a smile and told myself I WAS happy. Trouble is, that was a huge freaking lie.

The truth was internally, every ounce of my being was telling me I was meant to do and BE more. The problem was instead of looking within myself for a remedy for my discontent I wanted a job-in-shining armor to come a rescue me. I wasn't willing to do the work to figure out what it was I really needed.

No amount of fake enthusiasm could hide the fact that I was pissed, disappointed, and sad that nothing was going the way I envisioned. 

Then about 6 months ago a shift began to happen. It wasn't like I woke up one day and realized my life's purpose, but I stopped resenting my very important role as the caregiver for my family, and began letting joy into my life.

I rearranged furniture, threw out unused items, organized cabinets, and cleaned out literal and metaphorical closets. And I did it most of it with love and acceptance.

I made a space in my head and heart for the things I was missing. I became truly grateful for the time and attention I was able to give my new baby, and myself.

Now I relish in each new discovery my infant son makes. I look forward to watching my 6 year old run off the bus, excited to tell me about his day. And I am thankful my 13 year old can ask me for homework help because I am here for them.  My job IS important but that doesn't mean it is limited to being a full-time sandwich maker and dirty sock picker upper.

So, I ceased letting the tidiness of my house determine my value and accepted who I was, and what I'd become...a passionate, vibrant, woman who had a lot to share with the world.

I surrendered to my circumstances and became open to ALL the amazing and wonderful possibilities.

Fighting "what is" is a losing battle. "Happiness can exist only in acceptance."~George Orwell

How has accepting a difficult situation changed your life?

Enjoying what is, in Granolaville,

 

Thoughtful Thursday: I'm a Crunchy Black Girl With an Addiction

I have an addiction, and there's no way in Hell I'll ever kick it.

I've tried numerous times. OK, I've tried once. But it was SO hard that after a few weeks on the wagon, I jumped back on that chemically fueled bitch and haven't looked back since.

Every once and a while I'll see other people who have broken free from the shackles of this demon and envy their perseverance. But then I think of all the hard work and time that they put into being "chemical free" and I'm back to my dealer picking up a new supply.

It sucks because for the past few years I've been slowly  making this shift towards living a more natural and holistic life. My family and I have changed the way we eat, I've cleaned out toxic products from our home, and have even started this site to share what I've learned from awesome women, like those in the Holistic Moms Network.

I really am dedicated to making small changes that will, over time, transform my life into something more simple. The trouble is, making this change scares the shit out of me.

You see I've been using since I was about 9 years old. My babysitter helped me try it for the first time. It felt so good and really boosted my confidence. I've gone to professionals in the past, but now I save time and money by getting it myself.

I know it's harmful to me and my body, but that doesn't seem to stop the vicious cycle from continuing...I'm addicted to what many Black women refer to as "the creamy crack" aka hair relaxer!

What did you think I was talking about???

OK lets get down to it! For those of you in Granolaville who are unfamiliar, chemical hair relaxers are used by 80% of Black women to transform their hair into something that closely resembles the texture and softness of Caucasian hair.

Not me, and not her real hair, but you get the idea.

We've gone from Afro puffs to silky straight hair, and all we had to do is slather our locks with a cocktail of chemicals to fit into a European standard of beauty. For me, its a mixture of wanting manageable hair like my white friends, saving time...and a little about vanity.

Don't ALL little girls want to look like her?

The first thing you need to know is chemical relaxers permanently manipulates the structure of the hair.

Hair has two bonds, a physical bond and a chemical bond, referred to as the S and H bonds. These bonds create the S-shaped kink or curl in African-American hair. Chemically processing the hair changes the molecular structure by breaking down these bonds... thereby damaging the hair.  Once the bonds are broken, the hair loses its natural shape and elasticity, and can then be manually formed into straight hair. The changed S-shape bond can never be returned to its original healthy form.  

So there are only two way to get rid of a relaxer: Let your hair "grow out", which would mean the top part of the hair would look like the girl on the left, while the ends would look like the girl on the right. Not cute AT ALL. OR you can do what they call "The Big Chop" and cut OFF ALL OF YOUR HAIR , getting rid of the processed ends.

Either way I choose, putting my hair back into its "natural state" would be a 1-2 year process, and once complete means I can't just whip into a ponytail when I'm rushing around with 3 kids. 

I'm sorry but I am not confident enough to rock a buzz cut, although I applaud those beautiful women who do.

Solange Knowles rockin something Beyonce would never dare.

I admit it, I'm a little obsessed when it comes to how my hair looks (please tell me I'm not the only one!) There is a reason why all women and some men fear having a "bad hair day".

I used to wish, when I was younger, that my tresses could be long and luxurious like my girl friends in school. I was too young to realize that I needed to embrace my differences and not cause irreparable damage to my hair.

Here's the truth about chemical relaxers as documented in Chris Rock's movie Good Hair (a must see for my Caucasian husband):

• The principal ingredient in "Lye Relaxers" is Sodium Hydroxide which is a long-lasting chemical agent also found in commercial drain cleaner, floor stripping products and cements. If inhaled or ingested can lead to throat swelling, loss of vision, vomiting, collapse, or Necrosis (holes) in the skin or underlying tissues
• Most women use "No-Lye Relaxers" which instead contain Calcium Hydroxide. A less caustic chemical alternative that still has the ability to melt metal and your scalp, if left on too long.

Side effects of over-processing your hair with chemical relaxers include: 

• Changing the level of cystine – a protein responsible for strengthening the hair.
• Male patterned baldness
• Chemical burns
• Using a Ph level near 13---the same PH used to break down hair in your drain with Liquid Drano 
• Dry, brittle hair that breaks very easily
• Exposure to carcinogens that are absorbed through the skin, tissue, cells and blood stream

Here is an AWESOME list of chemicals we should all stay away from, no matter what your ethnicity.

So what's a Granolaville Mom to do?

I guess start figuring out a way to cut my addiction and find a more natural alternative that won't have me looking like Golum or Miss Celie from The Color Purple.

What's been the hardest thing you've had to give up for a holistic lifestyle?

Detoxing in Granolaville,