5 Tips for postpartum life

We are in newborn heaven, and loving every second!

Before B arrived I had a few things in place that have really helped with postpartum life.

5 Tips for postpartum life…

1. Have more than 1 diaper changing station. We live in a 2-story house and so having 2+ diaper changing stations set up has really saved us. There is no way I’d want to run up stairs with a newborn every time I needed to change him…although it’d be quite the workout!

2. This cart is everything. We have this cart on our first floor, and it is a tremendous help! It has 3 levels, and allows me to have a diaper changing section, a pumping section, and a clean clothes (for me too!), water and snack section.

3. Nap when he naps may not always be possible…I mean in the beginning you just want to stare at your newborn, trust me I get it! Try your best to sneak in a few naps throughout the day when your baby naps, this will save you when you are up all night feeding and changing them. Sleep deprivation is no joke. If you are open to it, perhaps have someone you trust come over and watch the baby so you can sneak in a nap too!

4. Okay this one may be TMI, but since the majority of you are Moms or Mama’s-to-be let’s get into it… splurge on the fancy diapers. Not for the baby, for you. The hospital ones will get the job done (IYKYK) but these are much better, trust me. They make postpartum life much easier once you get home, and make you feel slightly more put together (if that’s even possible).

5. Create a drawer or section of your closet with all of your nursing or postpartum clothing options. I created a drawer of tops & bottoms I thought I would want to wear (think ultra comfy, non-restrictive, and easy breastfeeding access) postpartum, and it has been a life saver. In the first few days and weeks you don’t have time or energy to search for things to wear.

3 Ways to help new parents

We are beyond excited to have our baby boy home with us. It has been such a journey to get here, and we are soaking in every minute.

Having a support system (near & far) is essential for postpartum life. It allows the new family to feel supported, but not crowded. Our tribe of family and friends have been essential during these first few weeks.

Here are 3 things you can do for new parents (that make a huge difference)

1. Food…it may seem simple, but having meals delivered is a huge help! There are only so many minutes in the day, and with a newborn many of them are filled with learning, loving, and constant breastfeeding. So nutrients are key! My Husband and I did our best to stock up ahead of time, especially since we don’t have any family nearby, but having meals delivered from our favorite places has been such a tremendous help. It’s a loving way you can let the new parents know you are here, you support them, but you are giving them space to adjust.

2. Don’t rush to see the baby. Everyone loves a newborn…I mean is there anything more adorable?? But give the new parents time to settle in back home, adjust to their new routine, and most importantly give them time to adjust to their new baby and allow the baby time to adjust to life outside of the womb. We did our best to set expectations and boundaries prior to baby’s arrival, and I would highly recommend this for new parents. It gave us time to truly be present for one another, and adjust to our new normal.

3. Check on the parents. In the beginning everyone wants to see the beautiful baby and soak in all the newborn cuddles, but don’t forget about the parents. Especially the Mama who worked so hard to get the baby here. The first few weeks (or the 4th trimester) are a time of healing, bonding, and learning for the new family. It can be so exciting to meet the new baby, but a loving text, card or call go a long way with new parents. The support (even from afar) makes all the difference.

Photo By Jontel Chere

Coming home to myself, my postpartum yoga journey

I’m so excited to have my friend Karmen Morales Sanchez as a guest blogger today! Karmen and I first connected at a small Naples yoga studio back in 2013 where we were both teaching. Karmen is now a Mom to two adorable little boys, and is going to share a bit about her journey back to yoga.

From Karmen…

My postpartum yoga journey has been a coming home to myself in many phases.

It was when I had my second child that my yoga journey truly evolved. Sure I always had to modify my poses while pregnant, and I had to ease back into my practice after my first born, but my practice then remained greatly the same.

Fast forward to parenting a neurodivergent toddler, and nursing a second baby - my body, my nervous system and my soul where BEGGING me to do something different. None of my previous practices, anchors, and tools were working. And to be honest, the last thing I wanted to do was Yoga…yoga as I knew it anyway. I dabbled with HIIT workouts mainly bc my body wasn’t losing the weight as fast I wanted it to (I know I know, but we yoga teachers are not immune to body image complexities). But my body said a hard no to that as my cortisol levels would spike and I would swell up like a big achey balloon. I hit a wall. 

It was around this frustrating time in my life that I spoke to a long beloved colleague of mine and I remember her casually saying “oh I remember those early child days - restorative yoga was all I could handle.” .

Suddenly it clicked. I’d spent years avoiding restorative bc “it wasn’t for me.” However, in those moments….it was the ONLY thing that WAS for me. When I accepted and adopted restorative yoga as my main practice, my body began to unwind. Literally and figuratively. As I allowed my body to have what it desperately needed, I began to come home to myself. My body was still mine, but it needed a different kind of support, and a different kind of love now. My postpartum yoga journey became (for the first time) a true practice of meeting myself where I was (mentally/emotionally/physically) on the mat. Some days it looked like 5 mins of legs up the wall, some days a chest opening Jason Crandell restorative session, some days yoga nidra while my children napped. I learned from new teachers, and as my Yoga dogma lifted, so did the layers of pain, anxiety, and tension.

Listen, raising children is hard. Raising special needs or neurodivergent children is sometimes harder. Having to go back to work, or missing your job to become a stay at home mom - it’s ALL hard. Yoga teaches us to focus on what we CAN do, one breath at a time. That’s what my practice has finally become. I’m finally back (three years postpartum) to my original hatha style - but it took three years for my body to desire it again…and that’s ok! As a Mamá my biggest gift from yoga has been to truly cling to the phrase “right now it’s like this, and that’s ok.” (Which I also, totally credit my dear friend Lauren Wessinger for). 

A few of my favorite classes and teachers currently are…
Lauren Wessinger , Catherine Allen (peri and postnatal yoga) and Forrest yoga.

Follow Karmen on Instagram @karmenyoga

3 Things I've learned during pregnancy

Pregnancy is such a beautiful time if we allow it to be; however sometimes there is so much outside noise that it can make it difficult to focus on the miracle we are creating.

I have learned so much about myself and those around me during my pregnancy, and my views toward myself and others have forever been changed.

1. I am stronger and more resilient than I ever knew. What my body has created, and how my body and mind has ‘bounced back’ after our miscarriages is simply incredible. I still can not get over the fact that baby boy started as a tiny little cluster of cells and now is an actual human…in my belly! I have so much respect for my body.

2. Everyone will have an opinion. This is something I have always knew, but became so prevalent during my pregnancy. Everyone who has been pregnant before you, or has children, thinks they are an expert on the subject and will want to impart all of their knowledge and scary stories on you. I find this so unnecessary and intrusive. Every pregnancy, just like every person, looks different and we should honor that instead of trying to make every pregnancy and everyone just like us. I still can’t understand the need for moms to share their scary pregnancy and delivery stories, how is that helpful? Are you blaming your kids for being difficult, are you beating yourself up for not having the experience you hoped for, or are you simply trying to share the sh*t out of the mom to be? The amount of scary stories I heard this pregnancy was astonishing. Although this was one of the worst parts of pregnancy, it also taught me to tune out the excess noise, opinions and stories from others. I learned that I am able to have my own beautiful experience, and I do not need to give any energy to the trauma of those who have gone before me.

3. Boundaries are everything. Whether it is physical, mental or emotional boundaries saved me during this pregnancy. For some strange reason everyone wants to touch a pregnant women’s belly, I’ve never understood this. If you are okay with this then that’s wonderful, however if you are uncomfortable with this (me!) then know that it is okay to speak up. People who have an issue with boundaries, or take boundaries personally, need to realize that it is more of a reflection on what they still need to heal than it is on you. In the same token if people are pushing you to do things you are uncomfortable with, whether it’s your Doctors or your family, speak up. It’s your body, and it will always be your choice. Becoming consumed with other people’s wishes, demands, or requests for you and your baby is not healthy. Take space where you need to, and although it may be difficult for some to understand just know that you are doing what you feel is best for you and your baby - and that’s all that matters.

I did a ton of personal growth work, healing, and deep internal work to heal generational traumas before I got pregnant in hopes of not bringing all of that to the next generation. I still have lots of work to do, but I am open and aware. I understand what I need and I am setting boundaries where they are needed. This is tough, deeply personal work but it has forever changed me and my life. I am not the same person I was before, and I can not wait to give this new, healthier version of myself to my son. So Mama’s do what you need to in order to be the best version of yourself not only for you, but for your baby too.

Photo By Jontel Chere

How to Gua Sha with skin expert Dawn Conder

I am so excited to have guest blogger Dawn Conder back to share some incredible holistic skincare tips! Dawn is an expert in Gua Sha, and is going to walk his through the importance of the practice, how to do it properly and how to incorporate it into our daily skincare routine.

Gua Sha is more than a trend, here are some tips for getting started!

It’s everywhere…tutorials on social media using small flat tools (A.K.A. Gua Sha Stones) to chisel jawlines and smooth out furrow lines. I may be partial as a Certified Hayo’u Method Gua Sha instructor, but I believe there is much more to this practice than any viral video can convey! 

While Gua Sha may seem to be a new beauty trend, it has actually been widely practiced in China for thousands of years.  The description is in the name, with ‘Gua’ meaning to rub, and ‘Sha’ describing the redness that results. This technique has been used to treat colds, coughs, fevers, migraines, headaches, stress, back pain, neck and shoulder pain, pulled muscles, injuries, numbness, and of course ageing. 

Used in beauty routine, Gua Sha has many benefits including:

-Increasing micro circulation in the skin up to 400%, flooding the skin with micro-nutrients. 

-Over time, increases levels of collagen and elastin 

-Reducing expression lines

-Reducing puffiness

-Reducing Facial Tension

-Contouring cheeks and jawline

-Supporting lymphatic drainage 

-Can be used to activate acupressure points

There are many shapes and types of Gua Sha stones. I recommend starting with a Jade Stone that is in the traditional heart shape. Jade has cooling properties, is a stronger stone better for sculpting than clear or rose quartz, and is suitable for all skin types. The traditional heart shaped stone is easy to hold and will allow for a multi-purpose routine. Whichever Gua Sha you choose, make sure it is 100% Crystal or Stone.  If it’s not it could be mixed with glass, plastic, or a chemically treated crystal and you will be getting an inferior skin massage.

Don’t forget to apply a facial oil or a face balm, with enough glide across the contours of the face to prevent pulling or tugging of the skin. Because your skin is your largest organ, look for products with high-performing ingredients that exclude potential chemicals of concern like fragrance, parabans, phthalate’s, formaldehyde releasers, and hormone disruptors.

As with any new routine, consistency is key for results. Start with a 5 to 15 minute routine a few times a week, eventually increasing to daily once familiar with the stone tools and techniques. While social media may move on to the next trend, your glowing smooth skin will encourage you to continue your Gua Sha practice long after.

Here are my go to products for Gua Sha that are natural, free of toxins or harsh chemicals, and safe during pregnancy and the whole family. (As a side note: All of the products below are safe for all skin types and ages, however the practice of Gua Sha is contraindicated for bleeding disorders, use of blood thinners or chronic cortisone users, and just the first trimester of pregnancy.)

100% Jade Gua Sha

Hugh & Grace Renewing Night Serum

Hugh & Grace Day C Serum

Dawn is a wife and a mom of two teens, living in Naples, Florida. As a Clean Beauty Specialist and the Owner of The Face Naturalist, it is her passion to inspire others they are worthy of  loving the way their skin looks and feels at any age. Certified as a Hayo’u Method Gua Sha Instructor and Advanced Danielle Collins Face Yoga Method Educator, she teaches a holistic approach to skincare by integrating non-invasive techniques, non-toxic products, and a balanced lifestyle. Follow at https://Instagram.com/thefacenaturalist or https://msha.ke/thefacenaturalist

My 4 biggest pregnancy cravings...

I’ve heard about pregnancy cravings my entire life, and most of the time they are strange out of the box type cravings that only a pregnant woman would understand. IYKYK

I thought it would be fun to share my top pregnancy cravings with all of you! As a Certified Holistic Nutritionist I try to always been very aware of what I eat and how it fuels my body and my energetics; that being said pregnancy is a whole new game and I wasn’t sure what to expect.

The first trimester I had more food aversions than food cravings. I have never been a big meat lover, which is odd because growing up family ate a ton of meat. This pregnancy, especially the first trimester, meat was such a trigger for me. In fact, I had to go upstairs while my husband cooked chicken because the smell made me so sick.

I didn’t really start to notice my cravings until I was well into my 2nd trimester. My biggest cravings have been… green juice (like 1-2 per day!), fresh cold fruit (blueberries, strawberries, apples, raspberries, blackberries…all of it), peanut butter (turns out you can put peanut butter on almost everything!), and coffee.

I was pleasantly surprised when I realized my body was naturally craving green juice and fresh fruit…what can I say baby is very on brand! lol These were both already a part of my diet, but the amount I am consuming of both have gone up tremendously. (and for those of you who think fruit is bad for you and your blood sugar…mine is the lowest it’s ever been…like ever.)

I feel like peanut butter is every pregnant woman’s craving. The amount that I have gone through this pregnancy is…well it’s a lot, let’s leave it there! I have been using peanut butter as a protein and a healthy fat for smoothies, oatmeal bowls, and so much more.

My last, and definitely my most surprising craving has been coffee. I was never a big coffee drinker, and pre-pregnancy only really drank it if I went out or on the weekends with my husband. Coffee has never been my thing…until now. I’m not sure if it’s the fact that I “can’t have it” / need to limit my caffeine that makes me want it or just the taste itself. I’m leaning towards the latter. I don’t crave it for the energy boost, but for the actual coffee taste. After talking to my Doctor’s and doing some research myself, I learned that my coffee craving is actually due to my anemia. Apparently when you are anemic you often crave coffee and the bitter flavor. This is why I will forever consider myself a student, always learning something new!

My take on pregnancy cravings is very similar to my take on cravings in general. I do not believe in restricting, especially because it can become a very unhealthy habit quickly. Instead I feel it is okay to give into your cravings, occasionally, and in healthy moderation. Sitting down with a box of cookies every night is not healthy moderation, but allowing yourself to have 1 small cookie a day or a few days a week is totally fine. When we restrict and forbid certain foods it can quickly become an issue, especially mentally, and frequently leads to binging on that food. Listen to your body, and see what it’s really asking for. For example, my body isn’t really asking for coffee it’s asking for more iron and heme, so that’s what I give it.

I’d love to know what your biggest pregnancy crave is or was?!? Comment below and let me know!

Photo By Jontel Chere

Letter to my baby boy...

Sharing a few snippets from a letter I wrote to my baby boy…

Baby Boy,

Thank you for choosing me to be your Mom. I have prayed for you all my life, and can not wait to meet you earth side very soon. You and I are already so connected, and I will miss having you so safe & close to me.

Being your Mom is the greatest blessing of my life, and I already feel so connected to you. I can not wait to see our connection blossom and grow. I promise to do my best to guide you, protect you, and love you. 

My only wish for you is that you find true happiness within yourself, and you share that happiness and joy with the world. The world desperately needs more joy and kindness, and I can already tell your little soul is the kindest, most gentle soul I’ve ever known.

I can not wait to meet you in a few weeks or days…we are ready when you are.

All my love,

Mom

Photo By Jontel Chere

6 Pregnancy Must Haves

As I near the end of my pregnancy {but like how am I already 9 months pregnant?!?} I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite “must have” pregnancy items!

I have a lot of Mama’s and Mama’s-to-be to read my blog, so I hope some of these items will come in handy for you!

My Top Pregnancy Must Buys

1. This pregnancy pillow has been everythinggg the past 9 months. It helps to take pressure off my low back and my belly now that baby is almost fully grown.

2. My favorite prenatal vitamin, I talk more about this HERE

3. This lotion is clean, non-toxic and is verified by the EWG. Not only do I feel safe using this lotion during pregnancy, but it is so hydrating on my skin it’s the go-to lotion for my whole family! We will be using the unscented version of this lotion on Baby Boy.

4. Living in South Florida, shorts are a must…even in February! These jean shorts have been my favorite this pregnancy, and I swear I wear them weekly.

5. As a yoga teacher I live in leggings, they are my go-to and that hasn’t changed at all during pregnancy. I personally love the Zelle pregnancy leggings from Nordstrom and the BLANQI pregnancy leggings. They both feel so supportive on my bump without being too constricting. I also found two awesome alternatives for you under $20 if that’s more in your budget.

6. I like to keep my wardrobe fairly simple and neutral, and then add a jacket, jewelry or handbag to change up the look. These simple maternity tee’s have been essential during my pregnancy, and have allowed me to feel somewhat put together (ie: no belly showing) in the last few weeks.

These are a few of the items that I find myself reaching for on the daily or weekly during my pregnancy! I hope they help you sleep better, feel fabulous, and stay hydrated during your pregnancy.

Photo By Jontel Chere

these are commissionable links, and I will receive a small commission when you click and purchase from them. This post is not sponsored or affiliated with any of these companies, I only share products I actually use and love. Thank you for supporting my small business.

Why we decided to hire a doula...

Pregnancy and birth are such beautiful and deeply personal experiences.

I feel fortunate that my husband and I have been on the same page as to what we wanted our birth to look like from day one. We want to create a beautiful experience for all three of us, allowing for as much holistic and alternative treatment and coping mechanisms as possible, while still having the security and back up of Nurses and Doctors. This is why we decided to birth at a Birth Center, and hire our own Doula to support us in the experience.

We are just weeks away from meeting our little guy, and have already met with our Doula several times. We weren’t exactly sure what to expect when we hired a Doula, first time parents over here, but she has already exceeded our expectations.

Our Doula, Alli, has guided us through what to expect during labor, various holistic coping techniques, has laid out what our options are, what to expect during and post labor and what to expect once we bring our little guy home. To say it has been helpful as a first time Mom, would be an understatement.

As a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, I love holistic healing, prevention, and alternative medicine and Alli has walked us through all the alternatives and options available to us. She has also taught me new breathing techniques, and has reinforced the importance of remaining open and flexible during labor. As a yogi we often think that we are very open and flexible in the mind and body, but when it comes to labor we can sometimes have difficulty tapping into those ways of being. To help balance that out she has taught my Husband all of the coping and breathing techniques as well so he will be able to guide me when my mind is elsewhere.

Alli has helped us create a birth plan that aligns with our wishes while remaining open to allopathic treatments that may be necessary. Birth is such a personal experience, and it’s important to surround yourself with a team that you not only trust but that understands your goals and preferences. I feel so blessed to have my team of Doctors and Nurses whom I trust, my Doula and my Husband who will be my biggest support.

I hope to share more about our birthing experience with our Doula, and the techniques that I found most helpful, after baby boy arrives.

If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant I would highly recommend checking out Blue Moon Doula Care. She works with families in person and virtually, and is an excellent resource for first time parents.

Photo By Jontel Chere

This post is in no way sponsored, these are my own opinions and thoughts that I am sharing.

How to take your business to the next level

As I have mentioned before, I am a huge fan of growth, coaches, and mentors. I believe that we are always students, learning, growing and evolving. Personally, I have worked with many coaches throughout different periods of my personal and professional journey. I love the idea of someone else (ideally in the same or similar arena to you) helping you to visualize the next steps and work with you to create actionable change to reach your goals.

After dozens of inquiries over the past few years, and after mentoring several young inspiring wellness entrepreneurs in my local community I have decided to take the leap and begin offering business coaching for female wellness entrepreneurs!

The women I have already had the pleasure of working with have been incredible! Helping them to realize and see their full potential and their goals is so rewarding. These sessions have quickly become one of my favorite parts of my week!

Over the past 6+ years I have built a successful business virtually on my own, and my business is 100% completely self funded. I am so proud of what I have created, and what is to come for Lean ad Green Body®, let me help you create your dream business!

Click HERE to work with me and start living your dream today!

How to make easy Japanese soup recipe

My client shared this recipe with me years ago, and it’s still one of my favorites!

I have made a few modifications to make it Lean and Green Body® approved…but let me tell you it is still packed full of flavor and nutrients! This recipe is perfect for winter months, but is light enough to enjoy in the summer as well.

This is sure to be a crowd pleaser for the whole family!

Japanese Soup Recipe

Ingredients

 64 oz. of low sodium chicken broth, plus 32 oz. water (less or more to taste)

1-2 TBSP Bragg’s liquid aminos

1-2 inches of fresh ginger (or to taste)

1 can of sliced water chestnuts

1 package of fresh of Shitaki mushrooms

1/4 cup of sliced green onions (only the green part)

2-3 handfuls of spinach or bok choy

Mini wontons (optional, avoid if making soup gluten free)

Directions:

Bring broth, liquid aminos and ginger to boil. 

Add water chestnuts and green onions and simmer for about 5-10 min.

Add shiitake mushrooms, wait approximately 2-3 minutes and add dumplings if you are using them.

Add spinach or bok choy (if using bok choy you will need to cook a little longer).

Allow everything to simmer together on low/simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes.

Enjoy!

Ready to get fit?!?

Ready to get fit, live your healthiest life, and finally reach your fitness goals??

Let’s get started!

Working with me has never been easier (or more affordable!).

By request, I am now creating custom {written} workout plans to help women achieve their physical fitness goals. These workouts are perfect for women on the go, the busy Mama, or even the powerhouse exec…all looking to take their fitness to the next level, but with limited time to commit to in-person sessions.

You will complete 3 -30 minute workouts each week at your own space…and you will receive new workouts every 4 weeks!

Ready to get started…click HERE

This is a monthly subscription that is completely customized to your unique needs!

Want to learn more…click HERE

I’m so excited to be offering this service to all of you! It is allowing me to expand my reach and connect with even more Lean and Green Body® ladies across the county.

Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have… click HERE to contact the Lean and Green Body® team

Photo By Jontel Chere

Journal prompt for a healthier mindset

Energy is everything.

“what you think, you become.” - Buddha

There is a ton of scientific data that proves that our brain believes the words coming out of our mouth, so why not change them up and switch our mindset? If we can speak more positive thoughts, our brain will begin to believe those positive thoughts - and they will become our reality!

It seems quite simple, but it takes some practice. One easy way to begin this practice is by journaling.

Every morning in your journal I encourage you to write down 3 things you are grateful for in that moment, 3 things that spark joy for you, and 3 affirmations about yourself.

For example it could look something like this…

3 things I am grateful for:

1. My Husband

2. My House

3. Living in the sunshine state

3 things that spark joy for me:

1. The book I’m currently reading

2. Long walks with my dog

3. Sunsets at the beach

3 affirmations about yourself:

1. I am smart

2. I am resilient

3. I am kind

These are just examples, choose what aligns with you in the moments each morning. Don’t overthink it, simply write what comes to you. Over time these 9 things will begin to become your truths, and although they may change daily, you will still be focusing your mindset on all the positive in your life and in yourself.

This positivity - and this mindset shift - will slowly begin to have a ripple effect out into your daily life. After 21 days of this practice you will notice that your positive mindset shift is lasting longer and longer, and stays with you for most of your day. When your mindset does shift towards the negative, it is now easier for you to bring it back these 9 things.

I can’t wait for you to try this exercise out tomorrow morning and see how much joy and positive it brings into your life!

Photo By Jontel Chere

How to find more JOY in everyday life

We are 17 days into the new year, and this is typically where new year resolutions seem to begin falling off the priority list. Instead of harping on yourself for ‘failing’ at your resolutions yet again…choose to switch it up. Instead of focusing on resolutions and how you are going to change yourself this year - focus on how you can add more JOY into your life this year!

By adding more joy into your life you will see that joy enhance your mental and emotional wellbeing, as well as your daily outlook!

So how are you going to add more joy into your life this year?

There are several ways in which you can add more joy into your life, here are a few suggestions…

• Put yourself & your needs first (finally) - I promise this is not selfish, it’s essential

• Start a new hobby!

• Surround yourself with people who raise your vibration

• Remove toxic people and toxic energy from your life - life is too short for that BS

• Set aside 30 minutes everyday just for YOU! (hot bubble bath, crisp walk outside or dive into your favorite book)

• Take your diet back - eat foods that not only fuel your body but foods that excite you!

Do something everyday that sparks joy for you!

Once you get in the habit of doing one thing daily that sparks joy, you can then add another…and another…until your day is full of joy! Your joy and your positive energy will overflow into other areas and relationships in your life, and eventually it will have a wave like effect touching everyone and everything around you. What a beautiful thought!

What’s one way you will add more joy into your life this week?

How to make my protein hot cocoa

There is something about cool winter months that has me craving a warm cup of cocoa. It’s cozy, sweet and very comforting. Growing up in Connecticut I remember many days sledding or skiing during the winter months and always running inside afterwards for some cocoa. It was always the best way to end the day!

However, the hot cocoa from my childhood is packed with artificial ingredients and loads of sugar. I knew this wasn’t an option for me (especially now that I’m pregnant) so I had to create one of my own!

This hot cocoa is high in protein, high in fiber, low in sugar and loaded with nutrients…and in my opinion tastes even creamier than the one from my childhood.

Lean and Green Body® Approved Hot Cocoa Recipe

Ingredients:

Coconut Cloud Hot Cocoa Mix

Oatly Oat Milk

Garden of Life Chocolate Raw Meal

Directions:

Steam one cup of oatly oat milk, then add 1 scoop of Garden of Life Raw Meal - shake or blend together.

Add 1 scoop of Coconut Cloud Hot Cocoa mix, and enjoy!

The Coconut Cloud Cocoa mix is a great product, and is vegan, gluten free and contains MCT oil. I like to mix it with the Garden of Life Raw Meal to add protein, fiber and essential nutrients to the cocoa. Even though the cocoa mix is relatively low in sugar, by adding protein and fiber to the drink you are assisting your body in the absorption of the sugar and helping to prevent a big sugar crash after your cocoa.

This combo also makes the drink super creamy! It has been my drink of choice the past few weeks.

Hope you enjoy!

Stay cozy friends. xxx

• this blog post contains affiliate links, if you purchase from these link I will make a small commission off the purchase. Thank you for helping to support my small business.

• this blog post is in a no way affiliate with or sponsored by the above companies.

My top 3 products to prevent stretch marks

I’ve heard numerous time during this pregnancy that stretch marks are inevitable during & after pregnancy… and truthfully I’m totally okay with them.

Honestly, I feel like after everything I have been through for this baby they would be like a badge of honor. My body is doing incredible things on the daily - I mean I’m literally growing a human?!? How cool!

So this blog is in no way bashing stretch marks. I’m simply providing tools and options to help prevent stretch marks and keep your skin hydrated and glowing before, during and after pregnancy!

Many belly oils and lotions contain toxic chemicals, and ingredients that can be harmful to you or baby. In the first trimester it is especially important to know what is in your products, as some “clean” products contain ingredients that can cause uterine contractions.

Here are the 3 non-toxic clean products I have been using this pregnancy.

Honest Co. Glow on Body Oil

My favorite belly oil I’ve tried! It’s clean non-toxic ingredients make me feel like I’m keeping baby safe, and it’s lux hydrating formula keeps my skin hydrated for hours!

Summer Friday’s

This lux balm feel amazing on my bump, and does not leave a greasy residue on my clothes. IYKYK

It is the most expensive balm/oil on my list, but I do feel the price is justified. Definitely worth trying!

Everyone Body Lotion

This is my favorite body lotion, and I literally buy it in bulk! I used this pre-pregnancy and I can’t get enough of it now. They even make one for babies, which we will be using for baby boy once he arrives. Super clean, no-toxic body lotion that won’t break the bank.

I’d love to know what your favorite products are to prevent stretch marks! Comment below and let me know.

• Transparency: this post contains affiliate links, if you do purchase through the link I will make a small commission from the sale.

• This blog post is in no way sponsored by or affiliated with any of the above companies.
  

4 Non-toxic beauty items I can't live without

I live for non-toxic, clean skincare.

I spend substantially more money, time and energy on my skincare than I do on makeup and beauty care.

Over the past few years I have learned that so many of our daily skincare products are loaded with harmful chemicals and toxins, and I made a huge switch to all non-toxic skincare, beauty care, and self care products.

I have a very consistent morning and evening skincare routine, and today I’m sharing 4 of my favorite non-toxic skincare items that I can not live without!

Acure Beauty Moroccan Argan Oil

Tula Brighting Eye Balm

Cocokind Texture Smoothie Cream

Cocokind Rosewater Toner

5 Ways to set yourself up for success in 2022

I’m not a huge fan of New Year’s resolutions because they typically don’t last past Valentine’s Day. Instead I am all for creating mindful changes that will last well into 2022 and beyond.

So this year instead of creating a ton of resolutions that you may or may not stick to, why not set yourself up for success this year and create lasting change.

Here are 5 ways to set yourself up for success this year…

1. Hydrate. You’ve heard me say this a million times, and I will continue to say it because it’s that important. Drinking enough water (I’m talking 90 oz of clean water for the average person) is a game changer for your health, your skin, your digestion, and literally hydrates every cell in your body.

2. Meditate. Create a consistent daily meditation practice, and watch your life evolve and transform before your eyes. If you are just beginning start with 5 minutes every single day, and meditate at the same time and in the same place each day to start creating a consistent habit.

3. Simplify. Now is the perfect time to clean out the closets, under the sinks, the garage and even the basement. Get rid of stuff you no longer use…a good rule of thumb is, if you haven’t used it in 6 months then you probably won’t use it in the next 6 months. Stop hoarding and get rid of the excess.

4. Movement. Get in the habit of moving your body everyday, even if it’s just a 20 minute walk at lunch. Find something you love to do, something that doesn’t feel like a chore, and commit to it daily. Move your body at the same time each day, and begin to create a new daily habit.

5. Plan. Set aside time on Friday or Sunday to plan out the following week. Write out your work schedule, any appointments, coffee dates, and even schedule in your workouts and your meditation. Put yourself in you planner as an appointment- dare I say you are MORE important than any other appointment in your schedule - that way you already carved out the time and have no excuses. Then at the bottom of each day, plan out your meals. This will save time during the week, and will ensure you have healthy options on hand for busy days.

Manifest your dreams in 2022

I am a firm believer in manifesting what you want. I believe we have the ability to manifest our goals and our dream lives.

For me this has always proven to be way more successful than setting New Year’s resolution…which let’s be honest typically get broken by February.

Manifesting your dreams has really changed my life, and opened me up to an entirely new way of being…so much so that I need to share it with all of you!

In January I will be hosting a Manifest your dreams workshop!

This virtual event will consist of 3 main parts:

• manifesting guided meditation

• learn how to manifest your goals and your dream life

• create a vision board for 2022 with all of your hopes and dreams

This workshop was originally just for Wellness Bestie members, but it is going to be so powerful that I decided to open it up to all of you!

The event will take place virtually on January 11 (1/11…my spirit number, I had to) at 6:00pm EST.

Space is limited for this event, so make sure you register early.

Cost is $45/pp, and will include information and resources you can utilize all year long!

For more information and to sign up email me at jennifer@leanandgreenbody.com

Can’t wait to see you on 1/11!

Honor yourself this week

The week between Christmas and New Year’s can be such a strange week. Part of you is still in the holiday spirit and ready to celebrate, while the other half is in sweats ready to sleep for 3 days straight.

Whatever you need this week, honor that.

Release the guilt, listen to your intuition, and honor your mind, body and soul.