Toronto Yoga Mamas Blog

Healthy Tips for Your Next Family Roadtrip

6/12/2019

Spring may be a season characterized by recurrent frosts and unpredictable showers, but June always marks a turning point where things—most notably the temperatures—start looking up! We can finally count on sun-filled afternoons, plus evenings out on the porch as we near the first day of summer. And, with the onset of fine weather comes the planning of family vacations.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy fresh country air, a lakeside retreat, or a buzzing metropolis, there are bound to be dozens of getaway destinations in your area accessible by car. Armed with modern in-car comforts and mobile internet access (crucial for planning roadside stops), there’s no reason not to hit the road. That said, prolonged hours on the road could make sticking to your healthy routines a challenge—that’s why we’re sharing five healthy tips for your next family road trip. Roll those windows down Mama, it’s time to drive!

Eat Well
If you’re trying to keep your family well fed on the go, it’s better not to rely on the chain restaurants most commonly found at roadside rest stops. You may find some fresh produce, such as bananas & apples, or even prepackaged healthy snacks like hummus & crackers at some locations, however, you can’t guarantee it, and healthy convenience store foods are almost always overpriced. You’re better off packing a cooler bag filled with yummy options for the journey to ensure everyone stays satisfied—and no one ends up with an upset tummy. Fruit slices & fish crackers, hard boiled eggs, pureed fruit & vegetable packs, and lots of water are great to have on hand. That said, the occasional roadtrip indulgence could be something kids really look forward to. Think about stopping for ice cream at the halfway mark as a special treat--sprinkles all around!

Get Moving
After sitting for (what feels like) hours, your little ones will be itching to move their energetic bodies. Even babes need to be lifted out of their bucketed car seats for a good stretch—not to mention a diaper change! Unless you plan to exit into a town, you’re unlikely to find a full-fledged park to play in, but that doesn’t mean your littles can’t tumble and climb! Look for restaurants with ball pits or activity gyms to engage their gross motor play. You can also keep your eyes peeled for scenic look-outs which may have picnic tables, large rocks or tree stumps, and—if nothing else—green grass to play on. Green spaces are a great place to roll out yoga mats for a 10-minute family practice, jump with a skipping rope, or kick a ball around. Keeping a few outdoor toys accessible will make these much needed body breaks all the more fun.

Stay Entertained
Roadtrip entertainment is all about balance. After the rigermorale of getting everything AND everyone packed up, there is bound to be some residual energy in the air. However, the early leg of an in-car journey usually settles into a bit of quiet time. It’s wonderful to encourage the littles to look out the car window at the passing clouds, cars, and trees; let them wonder at the passing scenes for a while. Older children might like to read or listen to their own music. When they are ready, little ones will want toys or games to keep busy. Babes will love sensory objects and teething rings secured to their seats. Toddlers might like a few books, a magnadoodle, or a drawing pad (just be sure to tether 3-4 crayons to the pad, unless you fancy the ‘blind, one-handed, reach’ into the backseat!) Older children will enjoy travel sized games like checkers; some even come with magnetic pieces. And, when all their other entertainment options have run dry, it’s time to bring out the tablet for pre-downloaded TV shows. Sometimes a few episodes of Peppa Pig are all it will take to survive the last 30 kilometers of your journey in peace!

Plan Naps
Every parent crosses their fingers in the hopes that their little one will nap during long car rides. Their cozy cushioned seats, the hum of the motor, the warmth of the sun—surely they will sleep, right?… well, not always. That said, there are a few things you can do to encourage enroute slumber for your littles. Firstly, make sure they got to eat, play, and use the toilet before you hit the road. Next, time your journey to coincide with naptime. Let them bring their favourite bedtime buddy for the journey; Older babes can bring a pillow. Play some soft music or sing them a lullaby when they begin to get drowsy or wrangy. Be sure to avoid loud rattles and other noise-making toys so they are able to calm down (not to mention for your own sanity!). Some littles will nap easily while driving, and others simply won’t—try not to feel stressed about a missed nap while on the go. Littles do require routine to thrive, however they are also highly adaptable and any form of travel is a special case that can deviate from your usual schedule. If your partner is behind the wheel, you might lead by example by enjoying a little nap yourself!

Protect Skin
You might be protected from the wind and rain, but your family’s skin will still be at the mercy of Mr. Golden Sun while driving in your car. Make sure everyone is wearing broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and be sure to reapply at rest stops. If you plan to use your air conditioning, consider dressing the littles in long sleeves and lightweight pants to reduce exposure. Shades for the backseat windows are a great way to protect little eyes and keep your babes from overheating; plus they won’t stop your babe from enjoying the scenic view. A good set of sunglasses is also essential to protecting peepers. Look for sunnies that protect against UVA, UVB, and HEV light. Lastly, sunhats or ball caps are a good way to keep the solar glare from irritating your little passengers—IF you can get them to keep their hats on!

Travelling with your little ones is not only about taking a well-deserved vacation, it’s also about building memories as a family. One of the healthiest tips we can offer is to stay flexible along the way (ultimately serving your mental health). After all, isn’t it the journey, not the destination that matters most? So pack your bags, map your route, and ready your favorite playlist because it’s time to take your family on an epic roadtrip—without compromising healthy choices!

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Introducing In-Clinic Lactation Consulting

6/10/2019

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Breastfeeding and Lactation Consulting now available In-Clinic at Yoga Mamas

We are proud to be expanding our breastfeeding services to now include lactation consulting directly in our wellness centre. You can now book an appointment to see a lactation consultant directly in our space. Appointments can be made easily online in real time - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

With over 10 years experience, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Taya Griffin will be at Yoga Mamas Monday mornings offering one-on-one education and hands on assistance in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.
At our breastfeeding clinic, mamas and mamas-to-be will feel empowered to reach their unique breastfeeding goals.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

You may benefit from investing in a Lactation Consult if:

You are pregnant and have special circumstances (breast surgery, adoption, etc) you wish to address with a lactation consultant
You have sore nipples or breast pain
You are experiencing blocked ducts / mastitis
Your infant is experiencing slow weight gain
You have been told your baby has a "tongue tie"
You are using a nipple shield
Your infant is "fussy"
You have been told you have low milk supply
You need to supplement
You are returning to work early or need to leave your baby and would like to learn the logistics around pumping and bottle-feeding
You are having twins!
You are ready to wean and would like to know how best to support yourself and your baby through the process.
You hear yourself and others saying "breastfeeding is too difficult".

Meet Taya Griffin, Our Lactation Consultant

Taya is a breastfeeding mother with over 1,000 hours of clinical experience helping mamas to reach their breastfeeding goals.

In 2007, she graduated from the Ontario College of Homeopathic Medicine with a Professional Diploma in Health Sciences and Homeopathic Medicine. From here, she practiced as a Homeopathic Practitioner with a special interest in pregnancy, pediatrics and women’s conditions.

In 2011, she graduated from the International Breastfeeding Centre/ Newman Breastfeeding Clinic’s Lactation Medicine Program and In 2014 became an Internationally Certified Board Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). In 2019 she attended the IBCLC Master Class in New York learning additional techniques on how to help breastfeeding mothers and their babies.

She teaches a "Breastfeeding Essential for Doulas and Health Care Practitioners" at our clinic and has educated high level executives with a desire to understand more about breastfeeding and how to support breastfeeding mothers. She also teaches yoga and pilates to a variety of clientele, including pre and postnatal mothers.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Join Taya At One Of Our Upcoming Breastfeeding Workshops

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Saying Goodbye To Dr. Shannon Vander Doelen

6/8/2019

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Dr. Shannon Vander Doelen has been a pillar to the Yoga Mamas community since she began her time here as our Naturopathic Doctor. Her mission has been to support mamas in making simple and sustainable changes to support their overall health. Shannon is licensed with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO). She is a member of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND) and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND). With a focus on maternal health and fertility, her practice has helped countless women to restore balance in their hormonal systems, improve fertility and feel awesome overall!

Shannon is celebrating the birth of her first child, her beautiful little daughter, and has announced that she will not be returning to Yoga Mamas in order to take some extra time for her family. We are incredibly sad to see her go. We cherish the time she spent with us and wish her all the best on her next chapter.

With the health of her patients so close to her heart, Shannon has ensured that her departure from Yoga Mamas need not interfere with the continuity of your care. If you would like to continue pursuing your health and wellness goals at Yoga Mamas, Dr. Nikita Sander will be taking over Naturopathic services, transitioning smoothly from her time covering Shannon’s maternity.

If you would like to congratulate Shannon on her baby or ask her any questions related to her practice, she welcomes you to contact her at shannon@shannonND.ca or on her website at www.shannonND.ca.

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Mommy & Me Shopping Guide

5/21/2019

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You know that feeling you get when someone admires your Little One, and then exclaims how much they look like you? It’s positively heartwarming! Whether Baby shares your eyes, your hair colour, or simply your attitude, it can be fun to see yourself in this tiny being you created! Of course some babies happen to look just like Daddy, but not to worry Mama, you can still indulge in a day with your “Mini-Me” because today we’ve sharing our Mommy-&-Me spring shopping guide!

The warm spring weather means Mamas everywhere are ready to load up the stroller and hit the sidewalk. And what better way to stroll through the park, or take a break at a nearby café, than in matching outfits? We’ve selected a handful of adorable—and completely Mama approved—spring essentials that will have you and Baby perfectly paired as you promenade through your neighbourhood. And the best part about this look? Not only is it super comfortable (a postpartum must) but its also gender neutral, so you can easily outfit Baby, boy or girl.

Alright Mama, let’s get matchy!

Here's The Look

Shortalls in blue denim are such a fun alternative to everyday shorts, plus the loose fit around the waist means more room to breathe--phew! Layer these with a classic black-&-white stripped T-shirt; a fine stripe for Mama and a bold stripe for Babe. Both of these pieces are perfect for mixing & matching, so you’ll both easily wear them all through the summer! If you plan to be out-and-about by foot this season, it’s best to keep your footwear sleek and practical with a pair of white Converse sneakers (just avoid any muddy puddles!) And did you know there were Converse shoes tiny enough for Baby to wear? In our opinion, Baby doesn’t need to be walking in order to justify putting an adorable pair of shoes on their feet! As for accessories, we’ve gone chic for Mama and playful for Babe; layering mala bracelets made with sandalwood beads is a cute match for this wood + silicone teething ring. And to top it off we’ve added a pop of colour and sophistication with this aqua floral scarf, paired with a snap bib in a subtle pattern for Baby. Keep reading to find out where we went shopping!

Get The Look For Mama

Shortalls: Denim Shortalls from Old Navy
Top: Boat-neck T-shirt from H&M
Shoes: Chuck Taylor All Stars from Converse
Scarf: Love And Lore Capri Neckerchief from Indigo
Bracelets: ‘I Am Fertile’ Bracelets from Mama Malas (select styles also available in the Toronto Yoga Mamas boutique)

Get The Look For Baby

Shortalls: Denim Shortalls from Old Navy
Top: Baby Stripe Bodysuite from Gap
Shoes: Chuck Taylor All Stars from Converse
Scarf: Maui Bandana Bib (4 pk) from West Coast Kids
Teether: Bubble Silicone and Wood Teether from Loulou Lollipop (select styles also available in the Toronto Yoga Mamas boutique)

It’s safe to say that every Mama delights in seeing herself in her baby, if only just a little. When others notice you share the same button nose, or heart-shaped face it reinforces your special bond! Well, we think if you’re going to twin, you may as well go all the way! Have some fun with your outfits this spring—these matching ensembles are sure to get noticed at your next play date!

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