Squats - a great exercise you can do anytime

For you mamas out there, here is a good post about the health of your pelvis. Do squats, not kegels.

For everyone, here and here are good.

For movement in general, check out a young kid. Chances are they are moving correctly.

Breastfeeding during the toddler years

I have posted about breastfeeding in the past. It's a passion of mine and I will post again and again on it, particularly when I read something that makes me clap my hands and yell, "Yes, someone gets it!"

Since last summer I have been thoroughly researching what food is best to eat. Recently I have made a commitment to eating Primal (80/20 rule). The following is from Mark Sisson:

Milk with fatty acids for brain development, antibodies for immune system support and high nutrient and fat content resulted in healthy babies who would more likely survive the challenges of Grok’s day. If the milk could change as the child aged to better meet his/her needs over time, that child would have an even better chance of making it to adulthood. And, as we know, these characteristics in breastmilk were exactly what evolution favored and selected for over time.

Because it took two years for babies and young toddlers to develop teeth adequate to chew much of the food available in Grok’s day, they were dependent on their mothers’ milk. (There were, of course, no Cuisinart processors or food mills in Paleolithic times – and little time to bother with elaborate food preparation anyway.) Children transitioned to solids at a slow and gradual rate and took milk from their mothers throughout the toddler years.

I love it! This is what needs to be expressed to parents, pediatricians and every person who eventually wants kids.

There are, of course, more than nutritional reasons to continue breastfeeding into the toddler years. I have found that it helps immensely to calm/relax Rooster prior to naps/bedtime, after getting hurt, or anytime he becomes extremely upset (more frequent nowadays when he exerts his independence). It has helped with teething, both as a comfort for pain as well as a supplement for nutrition. Rooster often did not want to eat anything solid. As long as he was nursing I did not have to worry about meeting his nutritional needs with solid foods for a few days at a time. Last, but certainly not least, emotions are running high for Rooster right now and nursing helps him feel secure, safe, and connected to another human being (his mama!). He's learning so much right now that I am confident nursing is a need of his while making so many developmental transitions.

Resolutions

They can be fun. Back in 2006 and 2007 my New Year's resolutions were to try a new wine every month. I know I hit it in 2006...most likely 2007 was a success as well. I don't think I made one in 2008. Last year I resolved to cut out processed foods and am glad to report it has stuck.

This year I resolve to be more primal. Thanks to Mark Sisson and his website and book I have a lot of information and guidance to be successful.

In a nutshell I aim for these goals:

1. No grains/sugar/legumes
2. More long walks
3. Increase weight lifting and body weight workouts
4. Play more!

I love the last goal and Rooster will definitely appreciate that one :)

I will be posting primal recipes and other information at my other blog soon. See you there!