Dani Wolfe, Author at mooh | Lifestyle Brand for Moms

These Meditation Tips Might Be What You Need To Decrease Anxiety

Dani Wolfe October 22, 2023

You’re tired of letting anxiety symptoms play a significant role in your life. Constant worry, panic attacks, no sleep–the list goes on and on. Luckily, there are tools to help cope. Meditation is a free and effective practice for decreasing anxiety. But only if you do it right. We’ve gathered five tips straight from meditation experts themselves to help you reach inner peace. Plus, keep reading until the end for three of the best meditations to help squash your anxiety now. Is Meditation Good for Anxiety? Yes, researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that an alternative mindfulness-based stress reduction practice–aka meditation–was just as effective as using common antidepressants for people with anxiety and panic disorders. But also, when combined with conventional techniques, meditation still successfully helps relieve anxiety. How Does Meditation Help Anxiety? Symptoms of anxiety cause intense fear or worry about possible upcoming negative events. In most cases, you’re not anxious about what’s happening in the exact moment you’re in–rather, what might be in the future. Meditation is a tool that can calm your mind and bring you back into the present moment. “Through meditation you can slowly let go of the things you are holding on to,” says Arnab Datta, MD, a trained meditation teacher and psychiatrist. According to the Mayo Clinic, here’s how meditation helps with anxiety. Benefits of meditation: Who Is Meditation Best For? The great thing about meditation is that it’s a useful tool anyone can use–with no harmful side effects. If you can breathe, you can meditate. In fact, nearly 18 million adults and 927,000 children in the U.S. practiced meditation in 2012. Although, it’s most widely known for helping people with anxiety. With meditation, you can use it alone or as a supplement to an existing treatment plan for anxiety. 5 Tips on How to Meditate for Anxiety Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate, learning how to meditate effectively can be a powerful tool for managing a stressful situation and finding balance. Luckily, we’ve found mindfulness meditation techniques from some of the top experts in the industry. Here are five practical tips to help you gain the positive effects of meditation from a psychiatrist, a meditation teacher, and a neurologist. Types of Meditation for Anxiety Meditation doesn’t just come in one form. There are many different ways to practice, each with its own unique benefits and meditation techniques. Let’s take a look at the types of meditation to ease anxiety. Body Scan Meditation A body scan meditation involves systematically scanning your body from head to toe, slowly bringing awareness to physical sensations in each part along the way. Imagine each part of your body lighting up as you focus on it for a minute or two. This practice helps move your attention from feelings of anxiety toward bringing awareness to your body in the here and now. Guided Meditation Guided meditations are typically led by an instructor either during a live yoga class, meditation group, or through a video or audio recording. During your meditation sessions, flow through calming visualizations that transport you to peaceful environments that bring happiness. Your meditation guide will ask you to imagine vibrant colors, breathtaking scenery, or scents that evoke inner peace at your location of choice. Mantra Meditation Meditations don’t have to be silent. For this type of meditation, you use a word or phrase to attach peace to. Essentially, you say your chosen word repeatedly when you’re anxious–as a mantra. This mantra is a focus anchor used as a distraction from your stressors. Some example mantras are: I am okay, I can get through this, I am at peace, and I am calm. Need Help Now? Listen to These Meditations If you’re anxious at this moment, jump right in and follow along with these top-rated meditations to help ease anxiety. Be sure to save these and reference them for later. 8-Minute Grounding Body Scan by Katie McLaughlin Flow through a gentle scan as you get in touch with your body and your breath. This guide’s soothing voice will wash your anxieties away from head to toe and bring you back to stillness with this body scan. Calm is only a quick 8 minutes away. Listen now 10-Minute Guided Imagery Meditation by Dr. Martin Rossman Help your mind relax after a long day with this 10-minute guided imagery meditation for anxiety. You can even use this as part of your morning routine to start the day off with a calm mind. Add to your to-do list and listen to this guided visual meditation daily for the ultimate relaxing routine. Listen now 10-Minute Mindfulness Meditation by Calm Take just 10 minutes out of your day to close your eyes and let the soothing ocean wave sounds in this meditation wash over you. Follow along as you are guided toward letting go of uneasiness. Lessen your anxiety, worry, and stress levels while enhancing self-acceptance in this 10-minute mindfulness practice. Listen now

What to look for when enrolling your kids in school

10 Things Every Mom Should Know Before Enrolling Kids in School

Dani Wolfe October 21, 2023

Enrolling your kids in school is a significant decision every mom faces at some point. But what makes it that much more complex is knowing your choice can impact your child’s overall development and future success–choosing the right school is critical. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for when enrolling your kids in school. As a mom, it’s important to dive into all the factors to consider for new school enrollment before making this major decision. From assessing the school’s curriculum to building safety and security measures, some essential aspects must be considered. We have everything you need to know right here to choose the best schools for children. Firstly, What Types of Schools Are There? Thankfully, today’s educational landscape offers a diverse range of school options. Whether you’re exploring traditional public schools, private schools, charter schools, magnet schools, or even considering homeschooling, many great choices exist. Traditional Public Schools Public schools are your traditional government-funded institutions where your child can receive a free education in their zip code. These schools are typically operated by local school districts and follow a standardized curriculum set by state education authorities. They offer a structured educational experience on various subjects to better prepare them for college, trade school, and beyond. Magnet Schools A magnet school operates within the realm of public education. But unlike traditional public schools, magnet schools are designed with a specific educational focus or theme in mind. You can find magnet schools with a focus on arts, sciences, technology, and other areas tailored to different passions. Magnet schools are known for encouraging creativity and hands-on learning, making them a great choice for families seeking a personalized and engaging educational experience for their child. However, keep in mind that admission to magnet schools may be very competitive and limited. Charter Schools A charter school technically belongs to the public school systems group. But they differ in their ability to customize their curriculum, facilities, and school focus–since they are operated by independent organizations separate from the local school board. While they still have to meet basic state requirements, charter schools may choose to focus their education on college prep, a Montessori curriculum, fine arts, and more. Unlike traditional public schools, you can send your child to a charter school without needing to live in the school’s zip code. Private Schools A private school is an educational institution that’s independently funded and operated–utterly different from public schools. These schools are typically run by private organizations, religious institutions, or individuals and charge tuition fees for students to attend. Private schools have much more autonomy in their curriculum, teaching methods, and admissions processes than public schools. This autonomy allows them to offer specialized programs, smaller classes, and an extensive range of extracurricular activities. For example, a boarding school falls in the category of a private education. Homeschool Another option is homeschooling. This educational approach lets parents take on the primary responsibility for their child’s education. It involves designing and delivering a customized curriculum tailored to your child’s individual learning style, interests, and pace of learning. Homeschooling offers flexibility, allowing families to adapt to the learning environment and run on their own schedule. It’s important to note that this schooling option requires commitment, planning, and sometimes adherence to state or local homeschooling regulations. 10 Things to Consider When Choosing a School for Your Child 1. Teacher Qualifications Depending on what type of particular school you choose for your child, teachers often spend as much time with them, if not more, as parents themselves. That’s why looking at a school’s standard qualifications for their teachers is critical when it comes to education for your child. Most schools require teachers to have a Bachelor’s degree in an education field before they can begin teaching. But, some schools only hire teachers with a Master’s degree–giving them that extra bit of schooling to perfect their skills before mentoring your child. Another valuable teacher qualification is a certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). This certification signifies that a teacher has met rigorous standards set by their peers regarding their knowledge, skills, and commitment to excellence in teaching. This means your child’s teacher has gone above and beyond basic requirements for education. Lastly, look at the school’s policy for teacher continuing education. Are the teachers actively participating in professional development workshops, seminars, or courses to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies? This ongoing learning ensures your child’s teachers have fresh ideas and strategies to enhance their classroom instruction. 2. The Commute As a busy mom, it’s important to make sure the school you choose for your child doesn’t cause major disruptions to your family’s routine. That might mean choosing a good school located only 10 minutes away compared to another great option an hour away from your home. Here’s another curveball: How much earlier will you have to leave in the morning to get your child to school or leave work to pick them up based on the school’s location? Also, check in to see whether the school provides transportation options. Many schools offer bus services, eliminating the need for you to personally drop off and pick up your child, and giving you more flexibility with your schedule. 3. Academic Performance Record (for 9th grade+) Truly find out a school’s quality of education by digging into their stats. Depending on the age of your child and school level, you can review a school’s dropout rate, standardized test scores, graduation rate, and college enrollment rate. This can help you make an informed decision about your child’s needs and education based on actual numbers. Important stats to know: 4. Teacher-to-Student Ratio Research shows that students in smaller classes perform better in all school subjects, participate more in class, and have a decreased crime-dependence outcome compared to kids in larger classes. Essentially, the smaller a teacher-to-student ratio, the more individualized attention they get to excel–this is especially great for kids with special needs who might

2023’s Best Thermometers For Your Family (with fast shipping)

Dani Wolfe October 14, 2023

As a mom, having a reliable and accurate thermometer at home is now more important than ever. A sick child is nothing to take lightly. If you’re dealing with a fever, you need to know how it’s progressing and what the exact temperatures are so you can make the decision to give medicine or seek help if the time comes. Knowing the importance of tracking a fever, we’ve scoured the market to bring you a handpicked selection of the most trusted, reliable, and fastest-shipped thermometers available. From your traditional thermometers to contactless and even smart digital ones with app integration, we’ve considered every aspect to ensure you find the perfect fit for your family’s needs. How to Choose a Thermometer for Different Ages When selecting a thermometer for your family, age is a significant factor. Not only are certain thermometers easier to use at different ages, but doctors also have specifics on what types little ones need to use. So before purchasing a new thermometer, take a look at the guidelines below from the Mayo Clinic on what type of thermometer is best for each age. Choosing a thermometer is easier when you know what type your family needs. You may even need to get two different thermometers if you have various ages in your home. Keep reading–this roundup will give you options for all your temperature-taking needs. 2023’s Best Thermometers For Your Family Best Overall Thermometer: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer With a 1-second reading time and non-touch design, there’s no wonder this iHealth thermometer made our list as the best overall family thermometer. Infrared thermometers are an excellent solution for families looking for easy temperature reading, no matter your kid’s age! Parents can also appreciate the silent notification feature on this thermometer. There are no beeps, dings, or sounds, just a gentle vibration when the reading is complete–perfect for sleeping babies! With over 164,833 reviews on Amazon and a 4.4/5 star rating, in our eyes, this family thermometer is a no-brainer. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Oral Thermometers Best Oral: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer Vicks has been in the health game for over 125 years. Their products are reliable, durable, and straightforward. And their ComfortFlex digital thermometer matches right up with their brand pillars. If you want an oral thermometer that gets the job done quickly and accurately, this is for you! Not a pro at figuring out temperature baselines? When you have a sick kid on your hands, you’re stressed enough as it is. That’s why we absolutely love the color-coded temperature indicators on this thermometer. A green display suggests a normal temperature, yellow signifies an elevated temperature, and red indicates a high temperature. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Oral Runner-Up: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer No more rushing to grab your thermometer only to find out it’s dead because you forgot to turn it off last time. Boncare saves parents the headache of having to remember to turn their thermometers off with their auto shut-down feature, ultimately saving battery life. We also love that it’s a 3-for-1 thermometer. Whatever your favorite method is to take a temperature reading, you can use it orally, rectally, or under the arm. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Non-Touch Thermometers Best Non-Touch: DISEN Non-Contact Thermometer Non-contact thermometers are great at helping prevent sickness in the family by avoiding cross-contamination. This DISEN thermometer not only made our list because it’s more sanitary, but it also holds up to 35 historical temperature readings so families can track any major temperature changes. Find out what a normal range baseline is for your child, or spot if a fever worsens over time. Not only that, but you can check how hot the water is or the temperature of any room you are in. Kind of a bonus feature of this thermometer! What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Non-Touch Runner-Up: GoodBaby Digital Infrared Thermometer With ultra-sensitive sensors and the latest smart chip with an optimized algorithm, this thermometer delivers reliable readings and ensures excellent performance for your family. It’s fast, reliable, precise, and hygienic. Track your family’s last reading with up to 35 sets of data history held in your thermometer’s memory. Plus, a large backlit LCD screen display allows you to easily read temperatures day and night! What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Underarm Thermometers Best Underarm: Kinsa Smart Thermometer If you’re looking for an underarm thermometer that does it all and more, this one’s for you. Not only do you get super-fast 8-second temperature readings, but you can also track every family member’s history in the Kinsa app. Set everyone up with their own profile and have all readings logged onto their personal charts. It even gives you suggestions for care and next steps based on temperatures. This thermometer is the perfect option for modern and techy parents. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Underarm Runner-Up: Safety 1st 3-in-1 Nursery Thermometer Safety 1st is a popular thermometer choice recommended by many hospitals. We love this thermometer because it’s simple, accurate, and super affordable at less than $6 to purchase. You can also choose your own way to check temperatures when your family isn’t feeling well–under the arm, orally, or rectally. But the flex tip is also something to note. Its comfort and flexibility are appreciated by both kids and parents. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Rectal Thermometers Best Rectal: Easy@Home Baby Rectal Thermometer When it comes to rectal thermometers for babies, you want speed, accuracy, comfort, and ease. The Easy@Home baby thermometer checks all those boxes. In only 10 seconds, determine if your baby is in the green, yellow, or red zone based on their temperature. Parents are also raving about this

If You’ve Ever Thought About Waxing You’ll Want To Know These 10 Benefits

Dani Wolfe October 1, 2023

Whether you’re tired of constantly shaving or dealing with the annoyance of plucking, waxing offers a solution not only for hair removal but for many other less-known benefits as well. From minor maintenance and thinner hair regrowth to kissing razor burn and painful cuts goodbye, waxing has become the go-to choice for many people seeking a hassle-free and effective way to remove unwanted hair. But is waxing better than shaving? Let’s find out. Read on for 10 benefits of waxing you may not have heard about. 1. Your Hair Grows Back Slower When it comes to getting rid of unwanted hair, many people crave longer-lasting results than they get with shaving. And the great news is, you don’t have to spend major cash for a laser hair removal treatment. This is where waxing comes into play. One of the critical benefits of waxing is the time it takes for hair to regrow. Unlike shaving, where hair can start to reappear within a day or two, waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in a slower hair regrowth process. This is because waxing disrupts the hair growth cycle, causing new hair to start from scratch at the follicle, thus taking longer to emerge. The regrowth time after waxing varies from person to person, but on average, experts at the Beverly Hills Med Spa say it can take three to six weeks for new hairs to emerge again after waxing. This means you can enjoy weeks of silky-smooth skin before the hairy furs return. 2. You’ll Notice Less Ingrown Hairs If you shave, you’ve probably experienced some ingrown hairs in your lifetime. Ingrown hairs occur when hair follicles become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, leading to irritation, inflammation, and pimple-like bumps. The estheticians at Wax & Lash Salon in Denver state that the chances of getting ingrown hairs are less with waxing than with shaving. However, you have to prepare your skin correctly. To maximize the benefits of waxing and reduce ingrown hairs, it’s essential to exfoliate your skin before and after your session for best results. This removes dead cells on the top layer of your skin so hairs will pluck out easier during your wax and prevent ingrown hairs. 3. Thinner and Finer Hair Growth Over Time Many people deal with very coarse and thick body hair. And when it comes to shaving, dense hair like this keeps coming back for more–it’s very persistent. With waxing, not only does it give you super smooth skin that lasts longer than shaving, but it can actually change your hair texture with continuous use. “Because waxing pulls the hair out by the root, it grows back softer, finer, and thinner,” as noted by the Associated Skin Care Professionals. When you remove the entire hair follicle from the root, it weakens it over time. As a result, repeated waxing sessions cause the hair follicles to become less resilient, reducing hair thickness. Of course everyone is different, but for most people, this means with each waxing session, your hair can become finer and more manageable as you go–this is also why many women love facial waxing. 4. No Razor Burns Traditional shaving razors often cause redness, inflammation, and even painful little razor bumps on the skin–aka the dreaded razor burn. This is because tiny cracks in the top layer of your epidermis can easily get irritated when a blade glides across your skin. Razor burn also happens from dry shaving, dull blades, and shaving against the direction of your hair growth. Plus, some people with sensitive skin are actually more susceptible to razor burn than others. Unfortunately, many women also deal with harsh razor burn around their bikini area. The great news is you can completely cut out this annoying side-effect with waxing. No razors means no razor burn–hello even skin tone and feel. 5. No Razor Cuts Another thing you can look forward to when swapping the razor for waxing is no more cuts. Nothing stings more than a slice to the skin when shaving. This usually happens when you’re rushing, pushing too hard, or going over bony areas or folds of skin. On top of that, the healing process from a shaved cut can be irritating. Most minor cuts like these take up to a week to heal, leaving your skin vulnerable and painful. Opting to wax is a safe way to eliminate the possibility of those pesky razor cuts. 6. You Get That Self-Care Pampering Feeling If you make a wax appointment at a salon, you’ll typically get the full spa experience. Smells of essential oils as you walk in the door, calming music, and maybe even a soothing running waterfall prop to welcome you. Not to mention the actual waxing service itself–depending on what part of your body is waxed, most spas will have a dedicated private space just for you to apply that warm, soft wax. This enhances that self-care experience and leaves you feeling pampered as you walk out the door with silk-like skin. 7. Exfoliation of the Skin One of the most overlooked benefits of waxing is the exfoliation your skin receives. During the process of waxing itself, the wax will cling onto your dead skin cells and rip them away along with the hair. This is one of the reasons why your skin can feel sensitive after a wax–you’ve removed the top layer of the epidermis and revealed a fresh, new, delicate skin layer. With regular waxing, you can keep these dead skin cells away from your skin resulting in a baby-smooth feeling. 8. You’ll See a Reduction in Body Odor Regular waxing not only helps you achieve smooth and hair-free skin but also plays a significant role in reducing body odor. When you remove the hair, sweat can evaporate quicker and won’t have as much time to interact with bacteria on your skin and create an odor. Waxing takes it a step further since the entire hair root is removed compared to just the surface

Why Snack-Shaming Kids Is a Problem for Parents

Dani Wolfe September 28, 2023

Moms are linking arms and deciding to squash snack shaming once and for all after a 3-year-old was shamed for bringing a cup of Pringles to his son’s school. Yes, you read it correctly. Kid snack shaming is a real thing. Megan Peavey on TikTok recently sent her little boy to school with a snack-sized Pringles cup, only to have the words “Please help us make healthy choices at school” written in Sharpie on the package he brought home. “They snack-shamed my 3-year-old, they snack-shamed me, by writing that passive-aggressively on his trash,” Megan responded. As a mom of a toddler myself, this whole situation hit home. Of course, we try to provide healthy snacks like whole grains, granola bars, and low-fat dairy products. But when you’re juggling raising a kid, extreme picky eating, considering very age-appropriate snacks, holding down a career as a working mom, laundry, cleaning, planning family activities, and your own personal time, sometimes throwing in a Pringles snack cup into a lunch box is the mental break we need. When it comes to what we, and the adults in our kids’ lives, say in regard to food, we need to pay attention. Kids are like little sponges—soaking in everything and learning every single day. What’s said to them can easily affect their mental health and play a big role in how they develop. That’s why we want to dive into the effect snack shaming can have on children and tips to promote a more positive and inclusive attitude towards food. Snack shaming can contribute to eating disorders and an unhealthy relationship with food. Today’s parents, school officials, and preschool directors need to understand that labeling foods as “bad food” or “junk foods” can have the opposite effect, leading children to view certain foods as forbidden and more desirable. Instead, promoting a variety of foods, including healthy snacks, in a positive manner is the best way to encourage healthy eating habits. Megan’s follow-up videos on social media, including TikTok users’ comments and fellow parents’ support, highlight the need for schools to reconsider how they address food choices. Rather than a passive-aggressive note on an empty Pringles container, a phone call or a conversation with parents could be more effective. Additionally, schools should focus on teaching children about balanced eating without stigmatizing certain foods. The Negative Impact of Snack-Shaming Children Kid Snack shaming–or food shaming–can have a big impact on a child’s healthy relationship with food. Once we start labeling food as good or bad, we need to take a step back. We love how Michele Fumagalli, RD, a registered dietitian, puts it. “Food is food and has absolutely zero mortality.” And she’s 100 percent right. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and registered dietitians emphasize that a child’s appetite and body size vary, and children need to learn to listen to their own choices. Addressing childhood nutrition in a holistic manner, considering both physical and emotional needs, is crucial. Mental health counseling and support from family groups can also help children develop a healthy relationship with food. Michele also explains on her nutrition blog that “When we label something good or bad, feelings of guilt or praise arise, including food. Why should we feel these feelings every time we put food into our mouth and more importantly what toll does this take on our relationship with food, self, and our body?” According to another fantastic registered dietitian and clinical nutritionist, Alana Kessler, MS, RDN, notes that labeling food as good or bad can lead to: 28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. And on top of that? Eating disorders are linked to the highest risk of death from any mental illness. Knowing what food shaming is can be the first step to flipping the script. Examples of Kid Food Shaming In my experience as a mother, I have heard it all. My daughter is 1.5-years-old and I’ve already heard a handful of negative comments on her eating habits. “She needs more meat, she’s too skinny.” Or, “You’re really going to let her eat ice cream?” and even when I thought I was doing something right “She’s eating too many vegetables, where’s the good stuff?” Other kid food shaming examples include: Food shaming is either calling attention to what someone is eating or how much they are eating. And yes, it’s also still considered food shaming even if that person isn’t old enough to understand words yet. Promoting an Inclusive Attitude Toward Food For those looking to change their ways or start off on the right foot with their little ones when it comes to nutrition, here are two powerful tips from registered dietitians to promote a healthy outlook on food. Flipping the script Michele recommends rewording how we talk about food. “Good & bad” can be switched to “very nourishing & not-as-nourishing.” This takes the morality of food out of the picture. “Once we are aware of which not-as-nourishing foods, aka the food that make us really happy, but not our body, the key to balancing the amount we have of these foods comes down to self-respect, care and trust,” she notes. All food is nourishing–some just more than others. Don’t be overly restrictive Alana suggests avoiding being too restrictive towards food. The more you make a diet limited, the more likely you or your kids will develop a strained relationship with food. It’s okay to “treat” your family to ice cream and cake if it’s done in a positive setting. The key is balance and a good mindset. As moms, of course, we always strive for healthy choices when it comes to nourishing our kid’s bodies. But sometimes choosing to throw some chips into your child’s lunchbox for a school lunch over cutting up bite-sized fruits and vegetables is our small break for the day. And while even though some snack shaming is aimed at today’s parents, the kids are the ones being hurt the most. Rewording how we talk about and act around food with our kids can make a huge difference

Here’s Why More Women Are Freezing Their Eggs

Dani Wolfe September 27, 2023

Did you know women’s eggs have an expiration date? In fact, women who menstruate may lose about 1,000 of their eggs each month, which might be why more women are freezing their eggs these days. Thanks to decades of research and reproductive medicine, women can now freeze their eggs to extend their fertility. In 2019, more than 36,000 women in the U.S. froze their eggs. And that number of women has significantly risen each year since. But it turns out there’s more to it than just preserving a woman’s fertility. Freezing eggs is becoming a “social” trend instead of historically being medically focused. We’ve dug deep into why more women are freezing their eggs–keep reading for all the information! Reasons Why More Women Are Freezing Their Eggs Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, used to be mostly for medical reasons like cancer treatment, autoimmune diseases, and endometriosis. But nowadays, more women are choosing social egg-freezing for various personal reasons. Here’s why egg freezing is becoming a popular option for women. You haven’t found the right partner Finding the right partner to start a family with is a big decision. Many women know they want a family but just haven’t met the right person yet. Egg freezing offers peace of mind, allowing them to preserve their eggs while they continue their search. You want to focus on your career For many women, establishing a career before starting a family is important. They might want to achieve certain job titles or career goals first. Egg freezing lets them delay parenthood until they feel ready. This is also true for women who have children young and want to climb the professional ladder before having more kids. You’re Unsure If You Want Kids (or more) Some women aren’t sure if they want children, or more children if they already have some. With the biological clock ticking, freezing eggs takes the pressure off deciding right away, keeping their reproductive options open for the future. You want to be financially stable Financial stability is crucial when planning to raise children. Freezing eggs allows women to work toward their financial goals first, like buying a house, saving money, or paying off loans, before starting a family. The Egg Freezing Process Freezing your eggs takes a bit of preparation and consists of multiple steps. In totality, the process from start to freeze takes a couple of weeks. Seem a little longer than expected? That’s because time, preparation, and patience is the key to retrieving healthy eggs. The egg-freezing process consists of five steps, according to the experts at Johns Hopkins Health System. 1. Hormone injections This initial phase focuses on getting the body to produce a healthy batch of eggs. To do this, women have to self-inject themselves with two to three hormones each day for 10 to 12 days. These hormones stimulate a woman’s ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than just one naturally per menstrual cycle. 2. Ultrasounds During these hormone injections, doctors want to track the development of your eggs to see how they are progressing. During this period, you can expect four to six ultrasounds, blood work, and frequent check-ups. 3. Egg retrieval Once the ultrasounds and blood work results show your eggs are mature, it’s time to collect them. This involves an ultrasound-guided surgical procedure under anesthesia to carefully retrieve the eggs. The process normally takes between 20 and 30 minutes. 4. Egg examination An embryologist, or trained doctor that examines female eggs, will verify the eggs are mature enough and have the potential to become successfully fertilized at a later date. 5. Vitrification The fertility specialist will take healthy mature eggs and start them through a process called vitrification–a method of putting eggs into a quick deep freeze. Once they are fully frozen, they’re stored in liquid nitrogen tanks in an embryology lab until they are ready to be fertilized with a partner’s or a donor’s sperm which is done in vitro fertilization–or a laboratory dish. How long do frozen eggs last? Your eggs can essentially last indefinitely while frozen. However, most women typically use their eggs 5 to 10 years after freezing. A fertility center in Texas noted that babies have even been born from eggs that were frozen for more than a decade. The time frame is really a personal preference! Success Rates of Egg Freezing On average, women who thaw more than 20 mature eggs have a 58 percent chance of live birth. It’s also important to note that the younger a woman’s age is at freezing time, the more of a chance they have of successfully reaching birth. SO Women who freeze their eggs under 38 years old typically achieve a 70 percent live birth rate. Plus, the success rate remains unchanged regardless of how long the frozen egg storage time is. Egg Freezing Considerations When it comes to deciding to freeze your eggs, there are some considerations. Taking the time to thoroughly think through these factors will ensure you’re making an informed and well-prepared decision. Your age Age is one of the most important factors when it comes to freezing your eggs. The older you get, the lower the chances of finding healthy eggs for fertilization become. Doctors at Johns Hopkins Fertility Center note that women who freeze their eggs before age 40 have a higher chance of achieving pregnancy. But the golden age range for freezing eggs is usually between 32 and 38 years old–this is when it seems the most logical and balanced according to The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Potential Side Effects of Egg Freezing It’s common for women to experience some mildly uncomfortable side effects from both the injection and retrieval parts of the egg-freezing process. This is why it’s important to know what you can expect before starting. Let’s take a look at each. Hormone injection side effects: Egg retrieval postoperative side effects: All of these side effects are very common and are typically not too severe. Most women help these subside with over-the-counter medicine, heating pads, and warm baths. Your fertility doctor will help you find

Strengthen the Bond Between You and Your Child [An Age-by-Age Guide]

Dani Wolfe September 25, 2023

No matter where you are on your parenting journey, bonding with your child is crucial for their emotional development and overall well-being. In fact, studies show that the stronger a parent-child relationship, the better social and academic skills your child will have. Whether you’re new parents, other family members, or a primary caretaker trying to connect with your infant, or a seasoned parent looking for new ways to bond with your teenager, there’s something here for everyone. In this age-by-age guide, we’ll explore different strategies and activities that can help you build a stronger connection and close relationships with your children in the early years and at each stage of their development as they grow up. Why Are Parent-Child Relationships Important? Parent-child relationships are vital for a child’s overall development. They provide a secure base from which children can explore the world, develop healthy self-esteem, and regulate their emotions going forward in life. Benefits of strong parent-child bonds: Choosing to invest time and effort into building a strong connection with your child will lay the foundation for their well-being and future success. Bonding exercises don’t have to be a chore. If you do it right, it can also be a rewarding experience for parents! Bonding With Your Child by Age Newborn (0 – 3 months) During the newborn stage, your new baby is beginning to explore the new world around them. While they may not understand your words yet, they rely heavily on your presence and responsiveness for a sense of security. Essentially, bonding with your newborn consists of touch and sound at this age. These gestures are extremely important to their development and one of the few methods they use for bonding. Bonding Activities: Infant (3 – 12 months) As your baby transitions into infancy, their world expands, and their interaction with you becomes more active. This is a great time to establish a stronger bond in new ways. Cognitive and social skills start to take shape, and they are more aware of their surroundings. This is an exciting time filled with new discoveries, milestones, and more opportunities for bonding. Bonding Activities: Toddler (1 – 3 years) Toddlers are bundles of energy and curiosity, to say the least, eager to explore the world around them. Every interaction is a learning opportunity for these young children. Nurturing your bond through new experiences, learning, and playtime during this stage will be the foundation for a secure relationship in the long run. Bonding with your child as a toddler involves play, affection, and setting time aside for learning. Bonding Activities: Preschooler (3 – 5 years) Preschoolers are becoming more independent and developing their own personalities each day. At this age, you will start to see their self-determination blossom. Strengthening the bond during this stage involves respecting their growing autonomy while still staying emotionally connected. Bonding Activities: Child (5 – 10 years) During this stage, your child is growing more rapidly than ever, both physically and emotionally. They are now developing their own identities, preferences, and hobbies like never before. Strengthening your bond now requires adaptability and support for your young adult. Bonding Activities: Young Adolescent (10 – 13 years) Your child undergoes significant physical and emotional changes in the young adolescent phase. Their bodies prepare for puberty and go through new, sometimes uncomfortable, shifts. Nurturing bonds with older children during this time involves providing support and understanding. Here are some things you can do to build your connection. Bonding Activities: Teenager (13 – 19 years) The teenage years can be challenging for both parents and young adults. But building and maintaining a strong bond during this time is crucial for supporting their emotional well-being, and simultaneously making the days less difficult. Bonding with your child as a teenager involves respecting their autonomy, open communication, and celebrating big milestones. Bonding Activities: Nurturing a Bond for Life Building a strong bond requires time, effort, and dedication regardless of your child’s age. But it doesn’t have to be challenging. Understanding their developmental needs and tailoring your parenting approach accordingly can create a lasting and loving connection with your child. Keep this age-by-age guide in your back pocket to reference the key activities for fostering a deep bond that will benefit you and your child throughout your lives.

Here’s Our 2024 Review of Ora Organic

Dani Wolfe September 16, 2023

You’re not alone if you’ve seen Ora Organic all over your TikTok or Instagram feed. This plant-based supplements company is taking on a new meaning to clean ingredients, and thousands of people are raving about their products. This Ora Organic brand overview will cover everything you need to know before clicking *Buy Now*. Let’s dive into what Ora Organic is, their pros and cons, product line-ups, and customer reviews. What is Ora Organic? Ora Organic is a unique supplement brand that focuses on ‘clean’ plant-based formulas instead of traditional animal-based ones. It launched in 2015 and appeared on Shark Tank two years later, sharing its solution to the lack of powerful and clean plant-based supplement formulas on the market. Plants power their products and only plants. But not just any plants–from organic Peruvian maca to tart cherries from the South of France, Ora Organic goes the extra mile to find the purest, most clinically proven ingredients for their supplements. The product line is vast, featuring 20+ supplements. From formulas to help you work out and recover, balance your gut, support skin, boost immunity, calm stress, and support your overall wellness, they’ve taken the most popular supplement products on the market and re-formulated them using the cleanest and most potent plants on the planet. Ora Organic Pros If you’re considering trying Ora Organic products, consider these pros. This brand takes quality ingredients, sourcing, and customer satisfaction seriously–customers love it. Here are some pros of Ora Organic: Ora Organic Cons This cons list may be short, but well worth the read. We dove into Ora Organic reviews and pulled out the most common negative feedback. Here are some cons of Ora Organic: Product Lineup Ora Organic products are grouped into different health and wellness focuses. Here, we’ll take a look at their Workout & Recovery, Gut Health, Women’s Health, Beauty & Skin Health, Stress & Sleep, and Immune Health product lines. Workout & Recovery Line Switch out your entire animal-based whey protein fitness products with the Ora Organic Workout and Recovery line. Meant to enhance your workout routine and support recovery after your gym session, their product lineup excels in plant-powered energy and body rebuilding. This includes superfood greens, clean protein powder, essential amino acids support, rice protein, and pre- and post-workout supplements. Products in this line: Best-selling products: Gut Health Line Restore your stomach microbiome with their Gut Health line. Ora Organics took traditional prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive supplements to the next level by finding ingredients with significantly more good gut bacteria per serving than other leading supplements. Products in this line: Best-selling products: Women’s Health Line Naturally, support your hormones and vaginal health with supplements designed specifically for women. Customers report more stable energy levels, hormonal acne relief, better mood, fewer PMS symptoms, and fewer yeast infections and UTIs with the Ora Organic Women’s Health line. Products in this line: Best-selling products: Beauty & Skin Health Line This Ora Organic supplement line focuses on your hormones, hair, and skin health. Powered naturally with ingredients such as ashwagandha root, holy basil leaf, green algae, beetroot, acerola cherries for vitamin C, and more, nourish your body from head to toe with plant-powered medicine–some even in peanut butter flavor! Products in this line: Best-selling products: Stress & Sleep Line Re-balance your entire self with this stress—and sleep-focused line. These supplements will help you get more rest, relieve stress, and achieve harmony within your body. This high-quality product line features natural ingredients like ashwagandha root, reishi mushroom, magnesium, tart cherry, and more, all to help you achieve a more zen body and mind. Products in this line: Best-selling products: Immune Health Line Customers can easily strengthen their immunity with the Ora Organic immune system health line. From vitamin D tablets that boost microbe-fighting proteins to vitamin B12 chewables that develop healthy red and white blood cells, supporting your immunity has never been more plant-based. Products in this line: Best-selling products: Customer Reviews Ora Organic is well-loved, with an average review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on its website. With over 11,000 online reviews, here’s what some people say about Ora Organics. Is Ora Organic Worth Trying? If nontoxic and plant-based ingredients aren’t necessary to you, or you’re not a fan of sweet supplement powders, you can probably skip out on trying this supplement brand. But if you’re looking for an alternative to animal-based products due to dietary restrictions or personal reasons, crave only the cleanest ingredients, and love supporting sustainable brands, then yes–trying Ora Organic is a good option. With a 100% money-back guarantee, why not place an order?

At-Home Food Sensitivity Testing: Yay Or Nay?

Dani Wolfe September 7, 2023

At-home food sensitivity testing kits have gained popularity, promising a convenient and easy way to identify potential food sensitivities. These kits typically involve collecting a sample, such as blood or saliva, and sending it off to a lab for analysis. But, the reliability and accuracy of these tests have been a topic of debate among healthcare professionals–and for good reason. We’ll find out if these easy food sensitivity kits for moms are really worth all the hype. We’ve uncovered the facts, so you don’t have to. Keep reading for an in-depth analysis of what food sensitivity is, how at-home tests work, and their pros and cons. Defining Food Sensitivity Food sensitivity is a loose term describing how people react to certain foods. When someone says they have a food sensitivity, they usually experience negative reactions after eating a specific food, like an upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea. Interestingly enough, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, food sensitivity is not an official medical diagnosis, as it has no medical definition. Food sensitivity vs. food intolerance There is a fine line between food sensitivities and intolerances. As we learned earlier, food sensitivity is a very flexible term not recognized by doctors–describing negative feelings after eating certain foods like stomach pain, gas, or diarrhea. But when you have a food intolerance, your body actually lacks a specific stomach enzyme needed to digest certain foods. In most cases, people with food intolerances can still eat small amounts of these irritating foods. But, when they have too much, their body will react. People with food intolerances experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas and bloating, headaches or migraines, heartburn, and nausea. How Do At-Home Food Sensitivity Tests Work? These DIY food sensitivity kits typically involve a very straightforward process: Collecting your own sample, sending it off for laboratory analysis, and getting back your results. Here’s what you can expect from the entire process. Part 1: Sample Collection – the sample collection process usually involves a simple skin prick test, stool, or saliva sample, depending on the specific kit. At-home kits provide detailed instructions on properly collecting your sample to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. Part 2: Laboratory Analysis – once your sample is collected, you will package it up and mail it to a laboratory, where it will go through testing. Depending on your testing method, laboratory technicians look at levels of certain antibodies or bacteria associated with immune responses to specific foods. Part 3: Results – after the laboratory analysis, you’ll typically receive your results along with some sort of guideline for understanding your findings. Most of these guideline packets will help you get to know your sensitivities and provide recommendations on dietary modifications. Are At-Home Food Sensitivity Tests Accurate? This answer can really be a mixed bag. With brands marketing themselves as 99% accurate and claiming to pinpoint foods you’re sensitive to, why wouldn’t it be? Despite that, we’ve also found a handful of registered dietitians who say at-home food sensitivity tests aren’t accurate diagnostic tools for pointing out sensitivities. “None of these tests have reliably shown any efficacy, so they’re likely a waste of money,” notes Abbey Sharp, RD, a registered dietitian, on her patient blog. Examples of At-Home Food Sensitivity Tests Let’s take a look at some popular and seemingly reliable food sensitivity kits you can do right from home. 1. Everlywell Food Sensitivity Comprehensive Test Key Features: More than one million people have trusted Everlywell with their at-home testing. As a leader in the space, you can expect an easy-to-follow collection process, streamlined laboratory analysis, and results with tailored suggestions on what to do next. Just order a kit, collect a sample of your blood via a quick finger prick, and send it back in pre-paid packaging. Testers usually get their results within weeks. With an extensive database of 204 identifiable foods, this test is ideal for people who eat a variety of cuisines. 2. Living DNA Wellbeing Kit Key Features: Living DNA’s Wellbeing Kit uses DNA to understand genetics’ role in your diet and lifestyle choices. Order a kit, swab the inside of your cheek, mail it off, and get results in six to eight weeks. With this kit, you will learn how different foods, vitamins, and exercises affect your body. Plus, get personal continental ancestry findings along with your food sensitivity results; it’s a 2-for-1 kit! 3. Viome Gut Intelligence Test Key Features: Viome’s Gut Intelligence Test is for those who want to monitor and address imbalances or health symptoms related to poor gut health. All you have to do is send them a small stool sample, and you’ll get detailed results within two to three weeks of over 400 analyzed foods. There are four categories based on your food results: Avoid, minimize, enjoy, and superfood status. Not only that, but you will also get personalized supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics recommendations to heal your gut faster. Pros of At-Home Food Sensitivity Tests If you like the convenience of testing yourself, then an at-home food sensitivity test might be for you. There’s just something about not dealing with the doctor’s office that many people prefer. Overall, at-home food sensitivity tests have many advantages. Here’s a complete list: Cons of At-Home Food Sensitivity Tests It’s also important to look at the possible negatives with at-home food sensitivity tests. With experts not agreeing on whether they’re reliable, choosing to go with an at-home test can be a tough decision. Here are all the cons of at-home food sensitivity testing to consider. When You Should See a Doctor If you’re experiencing persistent digestive symptoms such as severe pain, abnormal bloating, regular diarrhea, or any other related health issues, it’s best to consult a doctor. By collaborating with your healthcare professional, you can receive comprehensive testing, personalized advice, and the support you need to manage your food sensitivities effectively. While at-home food sensitivity testing kits may offer convenience and a glimpse into potential food irritations, it’s

First Night Out Without Your Baby? A Mother’s 7 Tips To Put Your Mind At Ease

Dani Wolfe August 30, 2023

Since day one, you’ve nurtured and cared for your baby. And now it’s been a while since the first day you brought baby home. You may feel the need to take some time out for yourself and to reconnect with the world outside of parenthood. There’s one problem. The thought of leaving your little one behind for a date night, meeting up with friends, or a business trip gives you crippling anxiety–I’ve been there too. Don’t let anyone make you think it’s not a big deal. I’m what they consider a classic worrywart mom. And if you are too, no shame to you. I’ve been there and done that, and now have seven essential tips that have personally helped me so I can share them all with new moms. With a little preparation, the first night out without your new baby can be a smooth and worry-free experience. Let’s get into the seven tips–I’m laying out all the pro insights! 1. Run through your usual nighttime routine the day before and make a list of essentials. The first thing you should do is walk through your baby’s entire evening routine and write down everything you use and need as you’re going through the motions. When you rub lavender lotion on your baby before bed, write it down. Turn that special ceiling projector night light on, and write that down too. Don’t forget about the necessities for night feeds either. From baby’s diaper stash and bottles to favorite toys and pajamas, write down everything your baby could possibly need while you’re out. After your evening routine is over, you should have a solid list of baby essentials for your night away. Making a list of these necessities will help you pack and set up appropriately and avoid last-minute panic or forgotten items. Meaning, a happier and more relaxed mom! 2. If you can, don’t travel too far. Sometimes you just can’t help what your first night away from baby looks like, especially for work trips. But if you can control it, staying close to home–or wherever your sitter happens to be–helps lessen any anxieties you might have. I personally only went out 15 minutes away from my baby. Whatever the distance is, it’s important that you’re comfortable with it, if you can be. You’ll get more of a sense of security and comfort knowing you’re only a short drive away in the event you need to pick your little one up or head home. This gives you more time to relax and enjoy your much-deserved time out. 3. Ask for pictures, often. Asking for pictures is not a sign of overprotectiveness or distrust. It’s a natural and healthy way to stay connected with your baby while you’re gone. I texted my sitter every 45 minutes asking for pictures on my first night out–and I don’t feel bad either. Please don’t hesitate to bug your babysitter, family member, or trusted friend. When you’re out and about, receiving pictures of your little one definitely brings a sense of comfort and reassurance. A new mom’s mind can be… well, a bit overwhelming. But when you physically witness your baby’s happiness and safety from a photo or video, you’ll get a big breath of relief. Just the sight of their cute smiling face or peaceful slumber can help put your mind at ease. 4. Don’t be afraid to write out instructions. Write out a whole book if you have to. This tip saved me so much worry and anxiety about steps being missed or major routines being forgotten. Even if your sitter has experience with newborn babies, every kid is unique and may have specific needs or preferences. Don’t feel bad listing everything out. Providing clear and detailed instructions for your sitter will ensure they have all the tools they need to take care of your little one. Then you can enjoy some much-needed time for yourself knowing your newborn baby literally comes with a manual for everything they need. 5. Don’t plan too much. If you’re having anxiety about being away, try not to overload your schedule with too many activities. Funny enough, my dad actually gave me this advice. The first time he and my mom were away from me they planned dinner, bowling, and a movie. Long story short, they only made it through dinner and quickly headed back home to me. Keep your night out simple if you can, and leave room for flexibility. Remember, if you’re having a hard time you can cut the night short anytime you want, even if it’s just a couple of hours–there are no penalties. 6. Have backups of everything. When it comes to baby essentials, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. I’m sure you know by now that diaper blowouts aren’t that rare. And that accidentally spilling a bottle and wasting milk isn’t out of the question. The best thing you can do is prepare an extra set of clothes, diapers, bottles, and milk. Plus, here’s your little reminder that breastfeeding parents will need to pump double breast milk too. Having backups will give you peace of mind and ensure everything goes smoothly, even if messy situations arise. 7. Trust your gut – spell out your list of no-nos. As a parent, you know your baby best. Whenever you are uncomfortable or don’t want your babysitter to do certain things, please let them know. This was on my no-no list for my first night out: Don’t feel bad giving your sitter this list. Trust your instincts and clearly communicate your preferences. Getting everyone on the same page will help create a positive and safe experience for both you and your baby. Hey Mom, you’ve got this! The first night out without your baby can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for new parents. But trust me, with these seven tips in your pocket, your night will be less anxious and more relaxing. Know your little one is well-cared for because you did