admin

Baby Massage, Doula, Maternity nursing, Sleep support

Capturing the Beauty of Motherhood: A Guide to Maternity Photography

Posted on

Welcoming a new life into the world is a journey filled with unique moments and emotions. Maternity photography is a beautiful way to capture this special time in a woman’s life. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about documenting the love, anticipation, and the intimate bond that is forming between the mother and her unborn child. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essentials of maternity photography, ensuring you have memories to cherish for a lifetime.

  1. The Best Time for a Maternity Shoot
    The ideal time for a maternity photo session is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. During this period, the baby bump is beautifully pronounced, yet you are still comfortable enough to pose. Remember, each pregnancy is unique, so choose a time that feels right for you.
  2. Choosing the Right Photographer
    Selecting a photographer who specializes in maternity photography is crucial. Look for someone who not only has a great portfolio but also makes you feel comfortable and understood. Your photographer should be able to guide you with poses and settings that highlight your natural beauty and the miraculous nature of pregnancy.
  3. Location, Location, Location
    Whether it’s an outdoor setting with natural light or a cozy indoor space, the location of your shoot should reflect your personality and comfort. Outdoor locations offer natural backdrops with soft, natural light, while indoor shoots can be intimate and controlled. Discuss the options with your photographer to find the perfect setting.
  4. What to Wear
    Comfort is key, but you also want to feel beautiful. Flowing dresses, form-fitting tops, and classic fabrics can accentuate your baby bump. Solid colors are timeless, but don’t shy away from patterns if they suit your style. Some mothers choose to include props like ultrasound images or baby shoes, adding a sweet, personal touch to the photos.
  5. Include Family Members
    Maternity shoots can be a wonderful way to involve your partner and other children. These photos capture the excitement and love of the entire family as they await the new addition.
  6. Embrace Spontaneity
    While posed shots are traditional, candid moments often capture the true essence of the experience. Laugh, move around, and interact naturally with your environment and loved ones. These spontaneous shots often become the most cherished.

Conclusion:
Maternity photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s an art form that captures the essence of motherhood. These photos are a way to celebrate the baby you’re about to meet, to celebrate your strength as a woman and to preserve the incredible journey that pregnancy is. Remember to relax, enjoy the process, and look forward to the beautiful outcome.

https://camilaphotography.pic-time.com/portfolio

Baby Massage

The Gentle Touch: Baby Massage for New Parents

Posted on

Hello, lovely parents! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of baby massage, a practice that not only soothes your little one but also strengthens the bond between you and your baby.

Why Baby Massage? Baby massage has numerous benefits. It can help in soothing your baby to sleep, improving their digestion, and even boosting their emotional well-being. It’s also a great way for parents to learn about their baby’s non-verbal cues.

Getting Started

  • Set the Scene: Choose a warm, quiet room. A soft blanket and a few drops of baby-safe oil can set the perfect mood.
  • Gentle Touch: Use soft, gentle strokes. You can start with their legs, as they’re less sensitive than other body parts.
  • Eye Contact and Soft Talk: Maintaining eye contact and speaking softly to your baby during the massage enhances bonding.
  • Reading Baby’s Cues: Some babies love massage, while others might not. It’s important to watch for signs of enjoyment or discomfort.

Simple Techniques

  1. Legs and Feet: Gentle strokes from thigh to foot can be very relaxing.
  2. Tummy: Soft circular motions can help with digestion.
  3. Back: Gently stroke their back while they lie on their stomach or your lap.
  4. Face and Head: Very light, soft strokes on the face and head can be soothing.

Safety Tips

  • Use baby-friendly oils or lotions.
  • Avoid massage if your baby is unwell or just had a feed.
  • Keep your touch light and never apply pressure.

Remember, the goal of baby massage is to relax and bond with your baby. It’s a beautiful way to express your love and care. Enjoy these precious moments!

Maternity nursing, Sleep support

A Guide to Looking After Your Little One: Tips for New Parents

Posted on
Bringing home a baby is a magical time

Congratulations on your new arrival! Bringing home a baby is a magical time, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. This guide is here to help you, as a new parent, with some down-to-earth advice on supporting your precious little kiwi.

  1. Creating a Snug Space: Make your bub feel right at home by setting up a cozy nursery. A comfy cot, soft blankets, and the perfect room temperature will make your little one feel snug as a bug. A happy space means better sleep and smiles all around.
  2. Feeding – No Worries! Whether you’re breastfeeding or using formula, feeding your wee one is a top priority. Chat with the experts, like your friendly healthcare team, to get the lowdown on what’s best. A well-fed baby is a happy baby.
  3. Sweet As Sleep Routines: Kiwi babies have their own sleep style. Create a bedtime routine that suits your little one. Quick tip: Newborns love napping, so let them have those power naps during the day. It’s all good for their growth.
  4. Get Your Bond On: Time to build that special bond with your mini mate. Gentle cuddles, talking to your bub, and making eye contact work wonders. It’s not just about nappies and feeding; it’s about building memories together.
  5. Health Checks – Sorted!: Keep an eye on your wee one’s health with regular checkups. Vaccinations, growth charts, and a chinwag with the doctor – that’s the way to go. A healthy baby means more playtime for everyone.
  6. Gear Up, Parents! Be ready for the adventure with all the baby gear. Nappies, cute outfits, and baby-friendly shampoo – get the basics sorted. Knowing your way around the baby aisle will make life a whole lot easier.
  7. Parenting 101 – Kiwi Style: Brush up on your parenting skills with Kiwi-friendly resources. Books, online forums, and local parenting groups are gold mines of info. Connect with other parents and share the wisdom.
  8. Rolling with the Postpartum Waves: Mums and dads, you’re both in for a ride of changes – physically and emotionally. Be honest with each other, and don’t be shy about reaching out for support. Aroha goes a long way during this time.
  9. Help is a Good Thing: Don’t be afraid to ask for a bit of help from mates and whānau. Whether it’s folding laundry or just having a yarn, having a support crew makes the journey smoother. It takes a village, they say!

Being a new parent is a special journey filled with highs, lows, and a whole lot of love. Focus on creating a warm environment, providing good kai, and staying connected with your healthcare team. Enjoy the adventure – it’s sweet as!

Maternity nursing, Sleep support

Supporting families of Crying or Refluxy babies

Posted on
  • Overview of different non-medical prevention, management and treatment options for the symptoms.
  • Outline of symptoms and discussion of differential diagnosis based on holistic view of feeding and symptom history.
  • Examination of some of the questions to ask, around existing symptoms, family history, feeding history, parental choices, and other forms of assessment.

    Caring for a baby with reflux is difficult, exhausting and confusing. It may be isolating as the mother may be concerned about the baby posseting when outside the family home. Does she have enough changes of clothes for herself and the baby? What will other people say? What if the regurgitated milk goes onto someone or something else? The mother may feel a loss in confidence as well as exhaustion. Being told that her baby’s symptoms are normal may be somewhat reassuring, but may also leave her feelings helpless and belittled. Listening to the parents’ concerns, and believing them, before seeking to find a solution, is a vital first step.
Maternity nursing

When to get Maternity Nurse ?

Posted on

Welcoming a new baby into the world can be a joyous and exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming and exhausting, especially for new parents. One option that some families consider is hiring a maternity nurse. But when is the right time to get a maternity nurse? Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Your health: If you had a complicated pregnancy, delivery, or recovery, you may need extra support during the postpartum period. A maternity nurse can provide specialized care to help you recover and manage any medical issues that may arise.
  2. Your baby’s health: If your baby was born prematurely or with health issues, they may require extra attention and care. A maternity nurse can provide the expertise and support necessary to ensure your baby is healthy and thriving.
  3. Breastfeeding support: can be challenging for many new mothers, and a maternity nurse can provide guidance and support to help you establish and maintain a successful breastfeeding relationship with your baby.
  4. Sleep deprivation: Newborns requires frequent feeding and care around the clock, which can leave new parents feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. A maternity nurse can help take care of your baby’s needs during the night, allowing you to get some much-needed rest.
  5. Emotional support: The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging for many new parents, and a maternity nurse can provide a listening ear and emotional support during this time of transition.

Some families may find that they don’t require the services of a maternity nurse, while others may benefit greatly from the extra support. If you’re considering hiring a maternity nurse, please contact me.

Baby Massage

Reasons to learn Baby Massage

Posted on

As a new parent, you might be wondering if there are ways to bond with your baby and promote their health and development. One technique that has gained popularity in recent years is baby massage. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider learning baby massage:

  1. Bonding: Baby massage can be a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your baby. The skin-to-skin contact and eye contact during massage can help your baby feel loved and secure, and can deepen your connection with them.
  2. Relaxation: Just like adults, babies can benefit from relaxation techniques. Baby massage can help soothe your baby and promote better sleep, which can be beneficial for both you and your little one.
  3. Digestion: Gentle massage can help stimulate your baby’s digestive system, which can be helpful for babies who struggle with gas or constipation.
  4. Development: Massage can help your baby develop physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can promote muscle tone and flexibility, and can even help with brain development.
  5. Communication: Through massage, you can learn to read your baby’s cues and respond to their needs. You can also communicate your love and affection through touch, which can help your baby feel secure and loved.
  6. Stress relief: Baby massage can also be beneficial for parents. It can be a relaxing and calming activity that can help you reduce stress and connect with your baby in a meaningful way.
  7. Fun: Finally, learning baby massage can be a fun and enjoyable activity for both you and your baby. It can be a special bonding time that you both look forward to each day.

If you’re interested in learning baby massage, don’t hesitate to contact me. With practice, you can become confident in your ability to give your baby a loving, soothing massage that can promote health and happiness for both of you.