benefits the lower back, promotes circulation and even helps move the baby into the proper birth position.


Limit exposure to toxins. Examine the labels of products you regularly use—es- pecially skincare and cleaning products—and banish anything that contains a toxic soup of chemicals; if you can’t pronounce an ingredient, it’s probably not good for you or your growing baby. Research from leading institutions such as the University of California–Berkeley and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has linked personal care and cleaning product ingredients to endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, developmental and reproductive disorders and cancer. There are now plenty of easy-to-find, toxin-free product alternatives. Green cleaners are available at most grocery stores and CosmeticsDatabase.com offers helpful guidance on safe beauty products suggested by the nonprofit Envi- ronmental Working Group.


Research alternative therapies. Taking drugs for common medical problems such as headaches, colds and muscle pain isn’t always the best approach. Speak with your midwife or obstetrician about options like acupuncture, massage and homeopathy. According to a study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, Swedish researchers found acupuncture to be effective in relieving back and pelvic pain during pregnancy; of the 1,500 pregnant participants, 60 percent of those who tried acupuncture reported substantial pain relief.


Natural Mothering Strategies Breast is best. Although breast-feeding isn’t super easy, it’s the healthiest option. “Human milk is meant for human babies, so it’s exactly formulated to be just what babies need and what they can easily digest,” notes Rothman. Breast-feed- ing gives babies an immunity boost, so that they tend to get sick less often and receive just the right nutrition; it also provides a sense of comfort, warmth and security that bottle feeding can’t match.


Use natural remedies for illness. Aromatherapy and homeopathy remedies work to reduce mothers’ and babies’ exposure to over-the-counter drugs. For instance, eucalyptus makes a good natural decongestant; simply add a few drops into the bath, a diffuser or even onto a cotton ball that can be placed on a bedside table, for a soothing scent. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any natural measures that you are taking to support family health.


Jessica Iclisoy, a holistic mother and founder of California Baby natural baby care products, writes about natural living from Beverly Hills, CA. Connect at Jessica@CaliforniaBaby.com.


Flower Power by Richard W. Schmidt


Born in 1967 in Englewood, New Jer- sey, Richard Schmidt has been draw- ing inspiration from the world around him as far back as he can recollect. Some of his works reveal an interest in humanity and natural history, while others reflect an appreciation for nar- rative themes.


Whether abstract or realistic,


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Schmidt’s art is descriptive in line, color and composition, reflecting the integrity of his commitment to the moment and the concept. Rendered in pencil, pen and ink, watercolor and oil, his fine art and interior murals are in private collections throughout the country. His projects vary from traditional media on paper and canvas to large-scale installa- tions.


“I work in several directions with regard to materials, technique, sub- ject and intent, with themes ranging from the ancient to the contemporary, the real to the imaginary,” Schmidt advises. “I am determined to create until my last day, and desire that my final breath be drawn with an imple- ment of design my hand.”


View the artist’s portfolio at Richard WSchmidt.com.


natural awakenings May 2011 51


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