Conscious parenting is an “on purpose” choice to be present and available with our kids and to show up when they need us. It’s not an easy road because it takes time, heart, energy, effort and is constantly pushing us to our limits as human beings. It’s a brave act to parent our children with this level of awareness and focus and I honor you for your choosing this path.
Being a parent is the one thing in life that tests our every emotion and gives us more joy than we can imagine. There are so many suggestions, ideas and advice on how to do it right, that it can get overwhelming, confusing and feel daunting.
Trust your mothering instincts!
Sacred Mama’s Milk
Women’s bodies are designed to feed babies. Mama’s milk is nature’s best all-around organic superfood: It has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein to help her baby grow and develop. Breast milk is rich in natural antibodies that help newborns fight off bacteria and viruses. Studies show that breastfed babies have improved brain growth and development, better vision, and strengthened immune systems, which leads to fewer chronic illnesses.1 Not only is nursing the most nutritious beginning for your baby, but it is also convenient and cost effective. Breast milk is always the right temperature. There are no financial costs involved, no need to measure out formula or scrub bottles. When you choose to breastfeed your baby, you are committing the time to get to know her intimately. The sacred practice of breastfeeding helps you bond with your new baby. And here’s a nursing bonus: Mamas can burn up to 800 calories per day while breastfeeding, which can help shed those extra pounds gained during pregnancy!
Breastfeeding and Weaning
The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends breastfeeding for a minimum of 1 year—longer, if desired. The average age worldwide for weaning a baby from breast milk is between years 5 and 7. Mothers around the world choose to wean at different times; breastfeed your baby as long as both of you feel comfortable. If you allow the rhythm of nursing to unfold naturally, the weaning process will occur seamlessly. Trust me, your baby will not want breast milk forever, even though you may think so at times!
Feeding Schedules
Generally, if your baby is thriving and has no specific medical concerns, you do not need to wake him up to eat. Most newborns will want to be fed every 2-3 hours, but some may require feeding every hour. If you have concerns about how much breastmilk your baby is getting, it is a good idea to consult your local lactation expert and/or pediatrician. Babies will always let you know when they are hungry, and it is best to follow their body rhythms rather than impose your own schedule. Trust your baby, and learn the unique language between the two of you. As your baby grows, he will usually adjust his feeding schedule on his own. Remember that even though babies can start eating solids around 6 months, which is also the American Academy of Pediatrics’
Nursing Tip
The La Leche League is a nonprofit organization that offers support and advice for nursing mothers. Should you have questions or need support during your time nursing, please seek their guidance. The mamas in La Leche League possess both wisdom and strength. I highly recommend their skills and services. http://www.llli.org/
- http://www.attachmentparenting.org/
- Article: Cry It Out: The Potential Dangers of Leaving Your Baby to Cry
- Article: Crying It Out Causes Brain Damage
