A New Kind of New Year’s Resolution: Nervous System Regulation

The start of a new year often comes with a long list of goals—move more, eat better, be more productive, do all the things. While the intentions behind these goals are good, sometimes we forget to make time for taking care of our nervous systems.

This year, we invite you to consider a different kind of resolution—one rooted in rest.

Why Nervous System Regulation Matters

Your nervous system plays a central role in how you experience stress, energy, sleep, focus, digestion, and pain. When your body is stuck in a chronic “fight or flight” state, even the most well-intentioned goals can feel overwhelming or impossible to maintain.

Nervous system regulation helps your body shift into a state of rest and repair. This is where healing happens. This is where you can think more clearly, respond rather than react, and feel more connected to yourself.

For pregnant and postpartum individuals especially, regulation is essential. Hormonal changes, physical demands, and emotional transitions can all place extra stress on the nervous system. Prioritizing rest isn’t indulgent—it’s foundational.

Rest Is Not the Opposite of Productivity

We often think of rest as something we earn after we’ve done enough. In reality, rest is what allows us to show up fully in our lives.

Restorative practices like gentle yoga, breath-work, acupuncture, and intentional stillness help calm the nervous system, lower stress hormones, and improve overall well-being. These practices create space—for insight, for healing, and for sustainable momentum throughout the year.

An Invitation to Rest & Restore

To support this intention, we’re offering a Rest & Restore Workshop designed to help you slow down and reconnect with your body.

Saturday, January 17 | 12:30–1:30 PM

This supportive, restorative experience will include:

• 30 minutes of gentle restorative yoga led by Dr. Gina, focusing on relaxation, breath, and nervous system regulation

• Acupuncture with Dr. Alex, supporting deep relaxation and overall well-being

This workshop is offered as a free service, is prenatal friendly, and open to all.

Reserve your spot here -> https://clechiropractic.janeapp.com/#/discipline/12/treatment/95

Whether you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or simply craving a moment of stillness, this workshop is an opportunity to begin the year with intention—without pressure.

A Gentle Resolution for the Year Ahead

Instead of only asking, What more can I do this year?
Try asking, How supported does my nervous system feel?

Regulation isn’t something you achieve once—it’s something you practice. Small, consistent moments of rest can create profound shifts over time.

If your body is asking for a slower start to the year, we would love to hold space for you.

Take care,

Dr. Gina

Wellness That Works in the Real World of Motherhood

Let’s be honest: “healthy habits” often sound like something other people have time for or something we’ll do when we have more time/less stress. When you’re juggling work, family, laundry, meals, the daily to-do list, and everything else life throws at you, it can feel impossible to fit in one more thing, especially doing something for you!

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to do everything to make a difference in your health. Small, simple, consistent habits can have a huge impact on your energy, mood, and well-being...and your family will notice and learn from you, too.

Here are a few tips to help you realistically incorporate healthy habits to your active life that can help you and your family:

1. Start your morning with one grounding ritual

You don’t need a 2-hour morning routine to set the tone for your day. Try choosing just one simple ritual that helps you start calm and centered, even if it’s only for a few minutes:

• Step outside and take 3 deep breaths of fresh air. Be slow and intentional in this moment. (bonus points for doing some grounding (standing barefoot on the earth) at the same time!)

• Stretch your spine and shoulders while your coffee/tea brews or breakfast heats up.

• Say a short prayer, affirmation, or intention for the day. Shifting our mindset to gratitude

• and intention can make a huge impact on our mental outlook and framework for our day.

These small moments signal to your nervous system that it’s safe to slow down, and that calm energy carries into how you show up for your day and your family.

2. Redefine “exercise”

Movement doesn’t have to mean a gym session or a workout video. Your body doesn’t necessarily care how you move, but it thrives on movement, so these activities can help:

• Do squats while you do daily activities: need to pick up a sock? Squat! Folding laundry, take mini breaks to squat! Sit in a squat or supported squat on a stool while playing with your kids or working on the computer.

• Dance with your kids in the living room or while you are cooking or cleaning; put on some of your favorite music and have some fun!

• Go for a family walk after dinner or during your child’s sport practice.

Every bit of movement supports your circulation, lymph flow, posture, and nervous system health. Progress is built in the everyday moments, not the perfect ones. Keep choosing the small steps that feel realistic for you

3. Focus on colorful and nutrient-dense food

You don’t need elaborate meal plans or expensive supplements to fuel your body well. Focus on adding nutrients, color, and variety instead of cutting things out. Try these tips:

• Add one extra veggie or fruit to each meal.

• Prep easy snacks (like nuts, boiled eggs, cut-up peppers) on Sunday (or your prep day).

• Swap bone broth for water in recipes to support gut and overall health.

When your plate is full of real, nourishing food, your energy, hormones, and digestion thank you.

4. Support your nervous system throughout the day

Between drop-offs, work, and life, your nervous system takes on a lot. Incorporate mini resets:

• Roll your shoulders and take slow, deep breaths before driving or entering the house to release tension and reset your system.

• Do a 20–30 second shake-out of your arms and legs to move stuck energy and help your body reset (kids love doing this with you!).

• Do a quick sensory reset: run water over your hands, step outside for a moment of fresh air, or place a cold water bottle on the back of your neck. These simple sensations can calm your nervous system in seconds.

These small pauses create a ripple effect leading to less overwhelm, more calm, and better resilience through busy days.

5. Let go of “all or nothing” thinking

Perfection isn’t sustainable: presence is. A skipped workout or overly processed meal doesn’t erase your progress. What matters most is returning to what makes you feel your best and repeating those choices.

The goal isn’t to do more...it’s to do what matters most, with intention.

6. Bonus: Model wellness for your family

Your kids learn wellness by watching you. When they see you stretch, rest, eat real food, or go to your chiropractic and holistic care appointments, you’re teaching them that taking care of their body matters.

It’s not selfish; it’s leadership.

You don’t have to do it all, you just need support that fits your life!

If you’re ready to create simple, sustainable habits that support your energy, mood, and health (without adding more to your plate), we can help!

We focus on realistic wellness for real moms and families: care that helps the nervous system reset, body move better, and mind feel calmer...so you can show up as your best self. Let us help you find habits and routines that fit your needs and your lifestyle.

Schedule your next visit (or a “wellness reset”) to reconnect with your body, recharge your system, and bring more balance into your daily life.

Because when you feel less stressed and more balanced, it impacts others around you...especially your family!

In Health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

The Wave of Light: Honoring Pregnancy and Infancy Loss

The Wave of Light: Honoring Pregnancy and Infancy Loss

Every mother remembers the moment she first imagined holding her baby. For some, that dream unfolds just as imagined. For others, the journey of motherhood brings unexpected heartache, longing, and loss.

Like many other women, I dreamed of the day I would hold my sweet baby in my arms and embrace all that motherhood brings. Sadly, my first pregnancy ended before that dream came true. I never imagined that my own journey would begin this way.

That season of pain taught me that grief and growth often share the same space. My loss revealed emotions I had never felt before and brought healing I never expected. It was healing I did not even realize I needed. I learned so much about myself, motherhood, faith, and life, which has helped me and many others on our motherhood journeys.

Pregnancy and infant loss touch far more families than most realize. One in four women will experience this kind of loss, each with a story and a love that endures. Whether a mother held her baby in her womb or in her arms, that connection is real and forever.

Grief after loss is deep and personal. It can feel heavy, isolating, and unending at times. Please know that you are not alone, and that healing is possible.

My Story

When I experienced a miscarriage at the start of my second trimester, my heart shattered. I had dreamed of being a mom for as long as I could remember, and when I lost my baby, I felt like a part of me was gone too.

Healing took time, both for my body and for my heart. I leaned on my faith, my family, my friends, and my colleagues. Through that season of pain, I learned that grief and growth often coexist. My loss opened my eyes to emotions and experiences I had never known, and it deepened my compassion as a mother, a wife, and a doctor.

The following year, we were blessed with our rainbow baby, our first son, who brought light and joy back into our lives. A few years later, we welcomed our second son, another precious gift who has added even more joy, love, and laughter to our family. I am beyond grateful for my baby in Heaven and both of my boys here on Earth. Each one has shaped who I am and continues to remind me of the blessings that can follow heartbreak and challenge.

Finding Healing After Loss

There is no single path to healing, and there is no timeline. But here are some things that may help bring light into the darkness:

Allow yourself to grieve: Feel every emotion that comes, from sadness and anger to confusion and guilt. Healing begins when we allow ourselves to express what is in our hearts.

Lean on support: Whether it is family, close friends, or a support group, being surrounded by understanding hearts helps lighten the load and facilitates healing.

Find meaning and remembrance: Some parents plant a tree, create art, or wear jewelry that honors their baby. For me, planting a butterfly garden became a way to feel connection and peace: a living reminder that love continues to grow.

Seek spiritual connection: Books such as Spirit Babies helped me find comfort and healing when I needed it most. Faith is important to me and was a vital part of my healing. Trust your intuition to find what brings you peace.

The Wave of Light

On October 15 at 7:00 PM, families all over the world will light a candle in honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. This collective moment of love, known as The Wave of Light, symbolizes the unity of hearts across the globe remembering babies gone too soon.

We invite you to join us in lighting a candle wherever you are. Whether you have experienced loss yourself or are standing in support of a loved one, your light matters. Together, we can bring warmth, remembrance, and hope.

If You Need Support

If you or someone you know is walking through the pain of loss, please remember that you do not have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to support you with gentle, holistic care as you heal: body, mind, and heart.

To all the mothers and families who carry this kind of love and loss, our hearts are with you.

With love and light,

Dr. Abbey

The Silent Load Moms Carry: How Motherhood Stress Shows Up in Your Body

The Silent Load Moms Carry:

How Motherhood Stress Shows Up in Your Body

Mama, you’re doing your best. You’re showing up every day, doing all the things, and juggling more than anyone really sees, all while loving with all your heart.

But there’s this weight, this tension, that keeps following you, that keeps you from feeling yourself. Those tight shoulders. The exhaustion and fatigue. The mental load. That voice in your head that says “I should be doing more” or “Why isn’t this enough?”

Often we call this stress “mom stress” or “mom burnout” and it’s not just a mindset. It’s something your body feels, holds, and stores over time. Often “mom guilt” shows up when it feels like you’re falling short, even when you’re doing everything you can and doing your best.

There’s the pressure to:

● Always be present, yet patient

● Do it all and never complain

● Never need or want a break

● “Bounce back,” stay calm, keep it together

● Keep up with “all the things”

● Be “perfect”

Sound familiar?

This emotional load doesn’t just weigh on your heart and your mind, but it also creates chronic tension and physical symptoms in the body, too.

When constantly in a state of busy-ness/always on the go, keeping track of the never ending to-do list, or stuck with self-doubt, the nervous system can get stuck in fight-or-flight mode. This get exhausting and affects more than just your mental health.

Over time, this stress can look like:

● Tight shoulders and jaw clenching

● Headaches or digestive issues

● Low back pain or pelvic floor tension

● Racing thoughts or fatigue that sleep doesn’t fix

● Feeling disconnected from your body

Your body isn’t broken or dysfunctional; these are warning signals and signs your body is crying out for help. Chronic stress without regulation leads to wear and tear physically, mentally, and emotionally.

The beautiful thing about the body? It knows how to heal…it was designed and made to heal. It just needs the right support. That’s where holistic care comes in!

Here are some ways to support your body through motherhood to help reduce the stress and tension your body is carrying and help provide relief and balance:

1. Chiropractic Care

Gentle, nervous system-focused chiropractic doesn’t just help with aches and pains, it helps regulate your stress response and calm your nervous system. When we remove physical tension and interference, your body can finally shift out of survival mode and into healing.

2. Massage Therapy

Massage isn’t just a luxury…it’s a way to release stored tension, reset your nervous system, and reconnect with your body in a nurturing, relaxing way. It can be a welcome break from the active, stressful mom-life.

3. Acupuncture

Emotional stress disrupts the body’s energy flow. Acupuncture may help restore balance, reduce anxiety, decrease tension, and support better sleep and mood regulation which are all essential for moms who are constantly “on.”

4. Pelvic Floor Therapy

The pelvic floor responds to stress, trauma, and emotional load just like any other part of the body by bracing, tightening, or disconnecting. Pelvic floor therapy helps you release physical and emotional holding patterns and rebuild function with your body.

5. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help women reconnect with their bodies, reduce pain, and restore strength, especially after pregnancy, birth, or long periods of physical strain. From rehabilitation therapy to core stabilization and posture support, it’s a powerful tool for healing and thriving in motherhood.

So no, you’re not “just tired.” Your feelings are valid. Your tension is real. You don’t have to carry it all alone or carry it all inside.

Holistic care is about seeing your body as a whole, not just the symptoms. We’re here to help you feel grounded, reconnected, and supported in your motherhood.

We support women as they are journeying through life to heal, function, and thrive. Through chiropractic, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture, massage, craniosacral therapy, pelvic floor therapy, and physical therapy, we are here to help your body reduce tension, improve function, and feel better overall.

Let us help you release the stress and tension that your body has been holding. You don’t have to do it all, and you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s walk this healing journey together.

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

@clechiropractic

clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830

Acupuncture and Breast Milk Production

How Acupuncture and Acupressure Can Enhance Breast Milk Production: A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that integrates acupuncture, acupressure, and dietary recommendations to support breastfeeding. This article explores how acupuncture can help increase breast milk production, along with key acupressure points and foods from TCM that can further enhance lactation.

Understanding Breast Milk Production in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, milk production is linked to the flow of Qi (vital energy) and the nourishment of the body’s fluids. The "Spleen" and "Kidney" organs play a key role in producing the body’s fluids, while the "Liver" is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi. When any of these systems are out of balance, it can result in insufficient milk production.

Breast milk is viewed as a product of the essence of blood and Qi, which is why TCM emphasizes restoring balance in the body to encourage lactation. Acupuncture, acupressure, herbs, and diet are used in TCM to support mothers in boosting breast milk production.

How Acupuncture Can Improve Breast Milk Production

Acupuncture is a key component of TCM, involving the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body to help restore balance and improve the flow of Qi. For lactating mothers, acupuncture can stimulate lactation by enhancing blood flow to the breast tissue, promoting the production of milk, and reducing stress and tension.

Common acupuncture points used for boosting milk production include:

1. SP6 – Located on the lower leg, this point helps regulate the body's Qi and promotes the flow of milk. It's also beneficial for balancing the Spleen and Kidney systems.

2. Ren 17  – This point is found on the chest and is used to enhance milk production by promoting the flow of Qi to the chest and breast area.

3. Zi Gong  – Located a few inches below the navel, this point helps with hormone balance and the production of milk. It’s often used to treat issues related to insufficient lactation.

4. Breast-Specific Points (ST18, SI1) – These points are directly linked to breast health and can stimulate lactation, helping to increase milk flow and support the overall health of the breasts.

Acupressure for Breast Milk Production

Acupressure is a non-invasive alternative to acupuncture, involving the application of pressure to specific points on the body. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure helps stimulate the flow of Qi, improve circulation, and reduce stress, all of which support milk production.

Key acupressure points for lactating mothers include:

1. Spleen 6 (SP6) – Pressing this point can help enhance milk production and regulate reproductive health.

2. Ren 17 – Gentle pressure on this point helps promote Qi flow to the chest, assisting with milk production.

3. Kidney 27 (KD27)  – Located on the collarbone area, this point is great for stimulating milk supply and helping with energy levels.

4. Small Intestine 1 (SI 1) – Located on the little finger, this point is particularly effective for stimulating lactation, especially when milk flow is slow or blocked.

To perform acupressure, simply use your thumb or index finger to apply firm, steady pressure on the designated points for about 1-2 minutes at a time. It’s important to perform this regularly, ideally in the morning and evening, for the best results.

TCM Foods to Support Lactation

In addition to acupuncture and acupressure, TCM recommends certain foods that can naturally boost milk production. These foods nourish the body’s Qi and blood, support the Spleen and Kidney functions, and help increase breast milk supply. Here are some key foods for lactating mothers based on TCM principles:

1. Red Dates (Jujube) – Red dates are commonly used in TCM to tonify blood and improve the body’s Qi. They help boost milk production and may help increase energy levels.

2. Black Sesame Seeds – Known for their ability to nourish blood and improve circulation, black sesame seeds are often recommended for lactating women to support milk production.

3. Ginger – Fresh ginger is widely used in TCM to warm the body, support digestion, and strengthen the Spleen. It’s also a great natural remedy for boosting breast milk production.

4. Papaya – Papayas are high in vitamin C and contain enzymes that support the production of breast milk. TCM practitioners often recommend papaya as a natural remedy for increasing milk supply.

5. Oats and Barley – Both of these grains are highly nourishing for the body and promote milk production. They are also easy to digest, which is particularly beneficial for mothers who are recovering from childbirth.

6. Chicken Soup – In TCM, nourishing soups made from chicken and other warming ingredients are thought to improve Qi and blood circulation, leading to enhanced lactation.

7. Bone Broth – Full of collagen and minerals, bone broth is highly recommended for strengthening the body after childbirth and supporting milk production.

Tips for Optimizing Breast Milk Production with TCM

1. Stay Hydrated: TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper hydration for milk production. Drink warm teas such as ginger tea, red date tea, or chrysanthemum tea to support digestion and lactation.

2. Stress Reduction: Stress is a major factor that can interfere with milk production. Find what works best for you—whether it's meditation, journaling, or simply unplugging for a while—and make it a regular part of your routine to manage stress effectively.

3. Eat Balanced, Nourishing Meals: Focus on foods that balance the body’s Qi and nourish the blood, as these will directly support your body’s ability to produce breast milk.

4. Rest When You Can: Adequate rest is essential for maintaining milk production. In TCM, rest helps restore the body’s energy and nourish vital fluids.

Acupuncture, acupressure, and diet are all valuable tools in the TCM approach to boosting breast milk production. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can naturally support lactation while also enhancing your overall well-being. 

Remember, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments, especially if you’re experiencing medical concerns.

Please feel free to contact the office with any questions.

Take Care!

What is the Webster Technique?

What is the Webster Technique?

If you are pregnant, chances are you’ve been told to find a Webster Certified chiropractor to see during pregnancy. But what exactly is the Webster Technique and why is it important during pregnancy?

According to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), the Webster Technique is defined as a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of subluxation and/or SI joint dysfunction. In doing so, neurobiomechanical function in the sacral/pelvic region is improved.

In simpler terms, the Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment that reduces nervous system stress, balances pelvic bones, muscles and ligaments and optimizes the mother’s pelvic function in pregnancy and birth.

When your pelvis is functioning properly during pregnancy, you are likely to experience less lower back pain, more comfort, and better movement.

All of our chiropractors at the office are Webster Certified! Feel free to call the office or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Take care,

Dr. Gina

Time for Postpartum Recovery

5 Signs It’s Time to Focus on Postpartum Recovery (and How Holistic Care Can Help!)

The postpartum period is a unique and often challenging time for moms. After months of pregnancy and the life-changing event of childbirth, your body and mind deserve care and support as you recover and adjust to this stage of motherhood. But between sleepless nights, caring for a new little one, and endless to-do lists, many moms put their own recovery on the back burner. Even if it seems like there is too much to do, there are ways you can prioritize your health and healing and start feeling better. We say that “slow is fast;” there is no rush to healing, especially postpartum, but rather simple and intentional activities and therapy that can make big differences for your healing. Healing is a journey and process; there are different focuses at different stages. Be patient with yourself and your body. Listen to what your body needs to rest, heal, and recover.

Here are five signs that it’s time to prioritize postpartum recovery—and how holistic care can help you feel like yourself again.

1. Lingering Back or Pelvic Pain

Your body goes through incredible changes during pregnancy and childbirth, and it’s common to experience discomfort afterward. However, persistent back pain, pelvic discomfort, or feelings of instability in your hips or lower back are signs that your body may need additional support.

• How Holistic Care Helps: Chiropractic adjustments realign the spine and pelvis, reducing pain and improving mobility. Pelvic floor therapy strengthens and restores the muscles that support your core, helping you feel more stable and confident in your movements. Massage therapy can help reduce body tension and may even help with pelvic and core healing.

2. Emotional Overwhelm, Postpartum Blues, or Postpartum Anxiety

Feeling emotional after birth is normal, but if you’re struggling with prolonged sadness, anxiety, or a sense of being overwhelmed, it’s essential to seek support. Your mental health is just as important as your physical recovery.

• How Holistic Care Helps: Acupuncture and mindfulness practices can help regulate mood by balancing hormones and calming the nervous system. Combining these therapies with self-care practices like journaling or talking to a trusted friend can make a significant difference. We can help connect you with a trained provider who specializes in perinatal care to help you heal and feel more balanced.

3. Fatigue That Won’t Go Away

Exhaustion is a common part of motherhood, but if you’re feeling constantly drained despite getting some sleep, your body may be struggling to recover from the demands of pregnancy and birth.

• How Holistic Care Helps: Acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage therapy can improve circulation, eases muscle tension, and promotes relaxation, helping you recharge physically and emotionally. Nutritional guidance can also help identify deficiencies that may be contributing to low energy levels. Our doctors can help you identify any imbalances and make recommendations to support your healing and optimize energy.

4. Difficulty Regaining Core Strength

If you’re finding it challenging to rebuild strength in your core, notice a separation in your abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), or are experiencing any pelvic floor issues (leaking, pain, pressure, prolapse, etc), these are signs that your body needs targeted care to heal properly.

• How Holistic Care Helps: Pelvic floor therapy and guided rehabilitative exercises focus on rebuilding core strength safely. A holistic approach ensures you avoid common pitfalls such as overworking the wrong muscles, which can slow down recovery.

5. Feeding Challenges or Upper Body Tension

Feeding your little one can take a toll on your neck, shoulders, and upper back, especially when combined with the physical demands of caring for a newborn. Pain or tension in these areas may signal the need for extra support.

• How Holistic Care Helps: Chiropractic adjustments address restrictions and other imbalances caused by various feeding positions or baby-holding postures. Acupuncture and massage therapy can release tension in the shoulders and neck, making feeding sessions (or when holding your baby) more comfortable for both you and your little one.

In addition to seeking professional care, you can boost your postpartum recovery with these simple, at-home practices:

1. Prioritize Rest: Accept help from loved ones and rest whenever possible.

2. Hydrate and Nourish: Focus on nutrient-dense meals and plenty of water (and electrolytes!) to fuel your recovery.

3. Gentle Movement: Start with focusing on breathwork and short walks or light stretching to ease back into activity.

4. Mindfulness and Self-Care: Dedicate time to activities that nurture your mental well-being, like meditation/prayer/journaling, being in nature, listening to music, or even taking a warm bath (if able to do so).

The postpartum period is not just about surviving or getting through—it’s about thriving and healing. Utilizing holistic care can support your natural healing and give you the personalized care you need to feel your best during this transformative time. From chiropractic adjustments to pelvic floor therapy, these holistic services address the root causes of discomfort and help restore balance and function.

Motherhood is a beautiful adventure, but it starts with taking care of yourself. By addressing the signs that your body needs support and embracing holistic care, you can recover more fully and feel empowered in your new role.

If you are ready to prioritize your healing or need more help and support as you heal postpartum, let us help! At Cleveland Chiropractic and Integrative Health Center, we’re passionate about supporting mothers through every stage of their journey. Whether you’re dealing with physical discomfort, emotional overwhelm, or just need a little extra care, our team is here to help you feel and function your best. 

Contact us to learn more about how holistic care can help you feel better, stronger, supported, and more balanced as you journey through this chapter of motherhood.

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

@clechiropractic

clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830

The Role of Massage in Hormonal Balance: Postpartum & Beyond

Hormones play a vital role in nearly every function of the body, from mood regulation to digestion, energy levels, and reproductive health. After childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal shifts that can affect her physical and emotional well-being. While proper nutrition, rest, and self-care are crucial during this time, massage therapy is a powerful yet often overlooked tool for supporting hormonal balance, especially in the postpartum period.

Let’s explore how massage can help regulate hormones and provide much-needed relief for new mothers. ---

Postpartum Hormonal Shifts & Their Effects

After birth, hormone levels fluctuate dramatically as the body transitions from pregnancy to postpartum recovery. Some of the most significant changes include:

Estrogen & Progesterone Drop: These hormones, which were elevated during pregnancy, plummet immediately after birth, potentially contributing to mood swings, fatigue, and even postpartum depression.

Oxytocin Surge: Often called the "love hormone," oxytocin rises postpartum, promoting bonding with the baby and supporting breastfeeding. However, stress and exhaustion can hinder its production.

Cortisol Imbalance: New mothers often experience elevated cortisol levels due to sleep deprivation and the demands of caring for a newborn. This can contribute to anxiety, tension, and difficulty relaxing.

Prolactin Increase: This hormone supports milk production, but high stress levels can impact its balance, potentially affecting breastfeeding success.

Massage therapy offers natural support to help regulate these hormonal shifts and provide both physical and emotional relief.

How Massage Supports Hormonal Balance Postpartum

1. Encourages Oxytocin Production Massage helps stimulate oxytocin, which promotes relaxation, bonding, and overall emotional well-being. Oxytocin is essential for breastfeeding mothers, as it supports milk letdown and enhances feelings of connection with the baby. Even a simple back or shoulder massage can help boost oxytocin levels and reduce stress.

2. Lowers Cortisol & Reduces Stress The postpartum period can be overwhelming, and high cortisol levels can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and fatigue. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce cortisol, allowing new mothers to feel calmer, sleep better, and experience a greater sense of well-being.

3. Aids in Hormonal Regulation & Menstrual Cycle Recovery As the body transitions postpartum, massage can support the endocrine system, helping to restore hormonal balance. Regular massage may also help regulate the menstrual cycle, which can be irregular in the months following birth.

4. Supports Thyroid Function Postpartum thyroid imbalances are common, leading to symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and brain fog. Massage improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, which supports overall endocrine function and can aid in restoring balance to thyroid hormones.

5. Improves Sleep & Reduces Fatigue New mothers often struggle with fragmented sleep, which can further disrupt hormonal regulation. Massage encourages deeper, more restorative sleep by increasing serotonin levels, which in turn helps produce melatonin, the sleep hormone. Even short massage sessions can promote better rest and recovery.

6. Enhances Circulation & Lymphatic Drainage Hormonal balance relies on efficient circulation and detoxification. Massage stimulates blood flow, helping to transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, while also aiding lymphatic drainage to remove excess fluids and toxins that may contribute to hormonal imbalances.

7. Provides Natural Pain Relief Postpartum recovery often includes soreness, muscle tension, and even headaches due to hormonal shifts. Massage helps reduce muscle tightness, improve posture (especially from breastfeeding or carrying a newborn), and relieve pain naturally, without the need for medication.

Beyond Postpartum: Long-Term Hormonal Support While the postpartum period is a critical time for hormonal recovery, women at any stage of life can benefit from massage therapy’s ability to balance hormones. Whether dealing with menstrual irregularities, perimenopause, or chronic stress, regular massage can be an effective tool in maintaining overall hormonal health.

Final Thoughts

Massage therapy is more than just a luxury—it’s a valuable tool for supporting postpartum recovery and long-term hormonal balance. By reducing stress, enhancing oxytocin production, and improving overall circulation, massage helps new mothers feel more energized, balanced, and supported during this transformative stage of life. If you're navigating postpartum recovery or simply looking for ways to support your hormonal health naturally, consider incorporating massage into your self-care routine. Your body—and your hormones—will thank you!

The Healing Practice of Mother Warming: A Postpartum Tradition

Mother warming is a postpartum treatment that supports recovery using moxibustion, a technique involving the burning of dried mugwort (Ai Ye/Artemisia). This gentle, warming therapy has been used to help nourish a new parent’s energy, promote healing, and restore balance after childbirth.

What is Mother Warming?

Mother warming focuses on applying heat to specific acupuncture points and areas of the body, particularly the lower abdomen or lower back. The warmth from moxibustion is believed to:

· Support the uterus: Encouraging the uterus to heal and return to its pre-pregnancy state.

· Boost circulation: Improving blood flow to enhance recovery.

· Restore energy (Qi): Replenishing the body's Qi and Yang, which may become depleted during childbirth.

· Relieve stress: Offering a calming and restorative effect, aiding emotional well-being.

When is Mother Warming Used?

Typically, mother warming is performed on day 4 or 5 after delivery. It’s a non-invasive way to gently ease the transition into postpartum life.

How is Moxibustion Applied?

A practitioner burns a moxa stick near the targeted area, allowing the soothing heat to penetrate the skin without direct contact. The warmth is pleasant and deeply relaxing. Often, a session is combined with other postpartum support strategies, such as acupuncture, for a holistic approach.

The Benefits of Mother Warming

1. Supports Postpartum Healing: By stimulating circulation and boosting Qi, it enhances the body’s natural recovery.

2. Relieves Aches and Pains: Particularly effective for back pain, pelvic discomfort, or feelings of coldness common after birth.

3. Improves Emotional Health: Warmth from moxa can be grounding, helping parents to feel centered and cared for.

4. Promotes Milk Supply: It may help enhance lactation by encouraging Qi flow.

Mother Warming: A Self-Care Ritual

While traditionally performed by a practitioner, with proper guidance, it’s also a practice that can be incorporated into a self-care routine at home. However, it’s important to ensure safety and proper technique, particularly if using moxa on sensitive areas.

Embrace Postpartum Balance

Whether you’re navigating your recovery or supporting someone you love, this practice is a gentle reminder of the importance of warmth, care, and restoration during this transformative time.

Please contact our office with any questions or for more information.

Exercise & Breastfeeding

Mama you did it! Baby is here, this is the time for you to connect with your little one and your new self. It's time for healing, resting and new experiences. Are you breastfeeding? How’s everything going? Are you experiencing breastfeeding issues?  Working with a lactation consultant can make your breastfeeding journey a smoother and better one. 

When to start exercising? 

After the first few months, it is very common to play with the idea of returning to your exercise routine but not sure if you feel ready? Other questions might keep circling your mind, such as will my milk supply suffer if I exercise? Am I making things worse if I don’t do enough exercises? Can I start running? When should I start?

First of all, start when you feel ready!  That being 6 weeks postpartum or 3 months, take your time and listen to your body and your needs. Be comfortable, do not compare your recovery to others as every journey is different. 

Second of all, studies have shown that moderate exercises do not affect milk supply. Most mothers feel better when they get some movement and exercises, bringing more benefits for them and their baby. 

Here are a few tips for you to start: 

• Start slowly and gradually. Simple exercises such as diaphragmatic breathing can be your first movement.  

• Keep hydrated. 

• Go for walks with your baby. 

• Feed your little one or pump before starting the workout to decrease breast discomfort. Also, using a supportive bra can be helpful. 

• Look for postnatal exercise classes near your area. 

• Keep an eye on how you feel after workouts. This can be your guide if you are doing too much so soon. 

• Don’t forget to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine. 

If you are experiencing leaking, pelvis pain, lower back pain/discomfort while exercising, our team of chiropractors, pelvic floor PT and massage therapists can help you! Talk to us, we might be able to help! 

Xoxo, 

Dr. Shirley