Pregnant friends, couples and mothers all light up at the mention of what has become the classic book on home birth. It is refreshingly real and thorough in every respect, from touching and graphic birth stories to medical wisdom with drawings, illustrations, and photos to make the information readily useful and usable for all parents. This book is a journey down a comforting, well-worn path that illuminates the sacredness of birth and how each new baby’s birth offers a blessing and a Spiritual experience for everyone involved. Ina May Gaskin reflects, “It is difficult for any human to express compassion who has not been on the receiving end of it. Being compassionate to the pregnant or birthing mother is not just an insignificant nicety of our practice – it lies at the very heart of our success. Kindness begets kindness that is passed on to nursing babies and to proud fathers, to brothers and sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles.” The first section details the personal stories of parents and midwives during their birth experiences. The strong community bond between the author and her associates, friends, and her husband, is also woven into the stories. In sharing their birth stories, each mother and father further establishes the subtle and powerful benefits of sharing heartfelt connection and faith in life’s patterns and each other. Advice from Ina May’s experience proves welcome and useful to many mothers, as they share in their birthing stories. In Carolyn’s birth story, Ina May encourages her by saying ”Don’t think of it as pain. Think of it as an interesting sensation that requires all of your attention.” Bonding is said to have lifelong positive effects, as Spiritual Midwifery points out, “Klaus and Kennell’s studies* showed that ladies who had their babies with them immediately after birth, who were allowed skin-to-skin contact, undisturbed for a while, held their babies more competently, established more intimate contact with their babies, and had fewer problems with breast-feeding than mothers who were separated from their babies immediately following birth and rejoined later.” Fathers also benefit from bonding with their babies, as Spiritual Midwifery states. “We observe that there is a process of bonding between father and child as well. Fathers who have witnessed the birth of their children seem to form an especially close attachment to these children and, like their mates, have profound spiritual experiences at the birthings.” The second section of Spiritual Midwifery is a technical manual for midwives, nurses, and doctors, including information on prenatal care and nutrition, labor, delivery-techniques, care of the new baby, and breastfeeding. One of my favorite ideas in the book is that our first language is touch, starting in the womb. Ina May shares her understanding and intentions, “As I transmit the knowledge of spiritual midwifery to other women, I feel that compassion and true touch are of foremost importance.” “What a mother communicates to her baby when she holds him with a good firm touch is that he can relax – she’s not going to drop him – it’s all covered.” Modern women can learn much about good birthing strategies from understanding something about indigenous birth techniques. No one strategy is going to work for every woman, but there are general principles that are conducive to successful labor. Upright positions and movement are generally good strategies for the first part of labor, and Spiritual Midwifery is a complete guide to caring for a full spectrum of potential birth scenarios at every stage, for after care, and regular baby check-ups. This is a valuable resource for all families. In the Preface, Ina May states, “The way babies are treated at birth is likely to affect them forever. The way women are treated during childbirth affects them in all their relationships for the rest of their lives.” Spiritual Midwifery shares nearly four decades of wisdom. It is a satisfying and successful book, as it intends to bring peace, comfort and confidence in our natural ability to share a positive birthing experience with our loved ones, midwives and doulas. *Marshall H. Klaus and John H. Kennell, Maternal-Infant Bonding: The Impact of Early Separation or Loss on Family Development (St. Louis: C.V. Mosby Co,1976)
To order Spiritual Midwifery, link: http://www.inamay.com/?page_id=38 Ina May Gaskin’s Biography link, from her website, www.inamay.com: http://www.inamay.com/?page_id=14Cara Muhlhahn, A modern midwife’s book, link: http://www.cmmidwifery.com/ Labor of Love includes engaging accounts of the home birth of Cara Muhlhahn’s son, and of her 30-year-long practice of midwifery. Cara Muhlhahn is featured in a powerful film about, and called, “The Business of Being Born.” “The Business of Being Born” Film Trailer link: http://www.thebusinessofbeingborn.com/trailer.php
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!