How to Breastfeed Naturally: Glow and Grow with Your Baby

In the heart of every mother pulses a primal connection to nature, a force that guides us to nourish and nurture our young. This intrinsic bond shines its brightest when we cradle our newborns close, offering them sustenance from our very being. Breastfeeding, an act as ancient as humanity itself, encapsulates the profound relationship between mother and child, built on love, trust, and nourishment.

For the Crunchy-Mom, this journey is a chosen path of authenticity, paved with purpose and passion. In a world dominated by quick fixes and synthetic solutions, opting for the natural rhythms of motherhood becomes both a challenge and a celebration. It’s not merely about breastfeeding—it’s about honoring an ancestral legacy, a tradition that has been passed down through the ages, untainted by the trappings of modern convention. 

As we embark on this unique journey, we find ourselves not only feeding our children but also sowing the seeds of a more conscious, organic way of life. This is the world of the Crunchy-Mom, a place where nature’s wisdom guides our every step, even amidst the bustle of the 21st century.

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect Latch

A successful breastfeeding experience often begins with a good latch. A proper latch ensures that the baby can effectively draw milk from the breast, while minimizing discomfort or nipple pain for the mother. Here are step-by-step instructions to achieve that perfect latch, enriched with the added benefits of skin-to-skin contact and baby-wearing techniques that can enhance your breastfeeding success.

Step 1: Preparing the Environment

Make sure you’re in a quiet, comfortable space where both you and the baby can relax. Dim lighting and soft music can also help set a calming atmosphere.

Step 2: Skin-to-Skin Contact

Before attempting to latch, engage in some skin-to-skin contact with your baby. This creates a natural bonding experience and triggers hormones that facilitate breastfeeding. Simply hold the baby against your bare chest for a few minutes to relish this connection.

Step 3: Finding a Comfortable Position

Whether you prefer the cradle, cross-cradle, or side-lying position, ensure that both you and the baby are comfortable. Use pillows or rolled-up blankets for extra support if needed.

Step 4: Guiding the Baby

Hold your breast with one hand, forming a ‘C’ or ‘U’ shape around the areola. With the other hand, support your baby’s neck and shoulders. Gently guide the baby’s nose toward the nipple. The nose to nipple technique will stimulate the baby to open their mouth.

Step 5: Achieving the Latch

Wait for the baby to open their mouth wide and then bring them onto the breast, ensuring that they take as much of the areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) into their mouth as possible. The baby’s lips should be flanged outward, and you should feel a pulling sensation rather than a pinching pain.

Step 6: Check and Adjust

If the latch feels uncomfortable, or the baby seems to struggle, gently break the suction by inserting a clean finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth and try again. It might take a few attempts to get it just right.

Step 7: Skin-to-Skin and Baby-Wearing for Continued Success

Once you’ve got the hang of it, skin-to-skin contact and baby-wearing can be integral to maintaining a fruitful breastfeeding relationship. Carriers or wraps made from organic fabrics, like the Ergobaby Organic Cotton Baby Carrier, allow for discreet breastfeeding while also keeping the baby close, promoting that precious skin-to-skin contact 

Achieving the perfect latch can be a learning process for both the mother and the baby. By integrating techniques like skin-to-skin contact and baby-wearing into your routine, you’re setting the stage for a rewarding breastfeeding experience that strengthens the emotional and physical bond between you and your little one.

If you find yourself struggling or if there is persistent pain no matter what you try, find a local lactation consultant. IBCLCs will help you troubleshoot latch issues and can also help identify larger problems such as oral tethers that could be preventing a successful breastfeeding relationship.

Embracing Traditional Wisdom

The essence of breastfeeding is woven into the tapestry of human history, with many ancient cultures cherishing it as a sacred act. As modern Crunchy-Moms, delving into this rich past not only offers insights into the art of natural motherhood but also introduces us to traditional foods and practices that can enrich our breastfeeding journey.

Traditional Foods Known to Boost Milk Quality and Supply:

Food/HerbBenefitsWays to Incorporate
FenugreekPromotes lactation, enhances milk quality for some women. For others fenugreek may cause stomach upset. If you find it upsets your stomach, discontinue use. Brewed into teas, added to stews
FennelSupports milk production, aids digestionInfused in warm water, added to salads
Blessed ThistleKnown to increase milk supplyConsumed as a tea or supplement
Root VegetablesProvide essential minerals and nutrientsBoiled, roasted, or added to soups
Bone BrothsNourish and revitalize the postpartum bodyConsumed as a base for soups and stews

Returning to these age-old foods and rituals, we find ourselves connecting deeply with the rhythms of nature and the wisdom of our ancestors. It’s a testament to the power of tradition, teaching us that sometimes, the best way forward is to take a step back, embracing practices that have stood the test of time.

Organic Nourishment for the Breastfeeding Mom

Breastfeeding, in its core essence, is a channel of pure nourishment from mother to child. What a mother consumes directly impacts the quality and composition of her breast milk. Hence, for the Crunchy-Mom who values organic and untainted sustenance, the significance of an organic diet cannot be overstated.

Why Go Organic?

  • Purity in Every Drop: Organic foods are devoid of harmful pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers, ensuring that every drop of breast milk is as pure as nature intended.
  • Richer Nutrient Profile: Studies have indicated that organic foods often possess a higher concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals. This not only nourishes the mother but also enriches her milk.
  • Supporting Sustainable Farming: Beyond personal health, choosing organic supports eco-friendly and sustainable farming practices, making the world a cleaner place for our children.

Plant-based Nourishment for the Nursing Mom

For those Crunchy-Moms who tend toward a vegan or plant-based diet, there’s a plethora of nourishing options that can support lactation and overall health:

  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and chard are calcium-rich and loaded with iron—essential for postpartum recovery and milk qujality.
  • Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are powerhouses of Omega-3s and proteins.
  • Whole Grains: Quinoa, barley, and oats can boost milk production and provide sustained energy.
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are protein-packed, supporting tissue repair and milk synthesis.
  • Fruits: Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries, are filled with antioxidants, fortifying both mother and baby.

It’s essential to note that every Crunchy-Mom’s journey is distinct. What’s vital is nurturing the bond of breastfeeding with the cleanest and most potent nourishment nature offers.

Natural Remedies and Boosters

In the vast realm of nature, there lies a treasure trove of remedies that have been revered and passed down through generations. For the Crunchy-Mom who wishes to keep her breastfeeding journey as organic and close to Earth’s roots as possible, these natural boosters and remedies can be invaluable allies.

Organic Lactation Boosters

  • Moringa: Often labeled as the ‘miracle tree’, moringa leaves are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, and have been traditionally used to enhance milk production. Moringa is one of Crunchy-Mom’s favorite supplements. 
  • Brewer’s Yeast: A natural galactagogue, it not only aids in increasing milk supply but also provides essential B-vitamins.
  • Red Raspberry Leaf: Renowned for its benefits during pregnancy, this herb can also support milk production when consumed as a tea postpartum.
  • Sunflower Lecithin: This does not increase milk supply, but it helps with flow which can decrease the chances of clogged ducts, a painful condition that in severe cases can lead to mastitis. 

DIY Organic Nipple Creams and Balms

For those times when tenderness strikes, having a gentle and organic remedy at hand can be a blessing. Here’s a simple recipe to craft a soothing nipple balm at home:

IngredientPurpose
Coconut OilOffers deep moisturization and has natural antifungal properties.
Shea ButterProvides a creamy base, aiding in skin regeneration.
Calendula-infused OilKnown for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Instructions:

  1. Gently melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
  2. Remove from heat and add 1 tablespoon of calendula-infused oil.
  3. Mix well and transfer to a small jar or tin.
  4. Allow it to cool and solidify before use.

Natural Solutions for Nipple Discomfort:

  • Cool Cabbage Leaves: An old wives’ tale with a basis in fact—placing cool cabbage leaves on sore or engorged breasts can offer relief. Just don’t leave them on too long or use them over the course of too many days, as they can also cause a major drop in milk supply. Traditional wisdom suggests using cabbage leaves to dry up milk at the end of breastfeeding.
  • Aloe Vera Gel: The cooling effect of aloe can soothe sore or cracked nipples. Ensure you use pure, organic aloe vera and wash off before the next feed.
  • Salt Water Rinse: A simple saline solution can help heal minor cracks and prevent infection.
  • Expressed breast milk: Massage some previously expressed breast milk onto minor cracks, as this can help to heal them. 

Every breastfeeding journey has its moments of challenge, and painful nipples are a big hurdle. Remember that pain is not normal when breastfeeding and you should definitely seek out a remedy. Thankfully with nature’s abundant offerings, Crunchy-Moms can find the help they need. 

Breastfeeding and the Natural Environment

For centuries, the act of breastfeeding has been deeply intertwined with our natural surroundings. Living in a modern setting, it can be helpful to learn to tune into our natural instincts again when embarking on a breastfeeding journey with our little ones. For the Crunchy-Mom, curating a natural environment for breastfeeding isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about fostering a bond with the Earth as they nurture their young.

Crafting a Holistic Breastfeeding Ambiance

  • Natural Lighting: Make the most of the sun’s gentle rays. Choose a spot near windows or in a sunroom for daytime feeds. The natural circadian rhythms can help regulate the baby’s sleep-wake cycle.
  • Soothing Sounds: Consider adding the soft sounds of nature. Gentle rain, flowing water, or bird songs can provide a tranquil background.
  • Plants: Introducing indoor plants can purify the air and add a touch of nature. Opt for baby-safe varieties like spider plants or Boston ferns.
  • Meditative Elements: A softly bubbling tabletop fountain or wind chimes can enhance the serenity of your breastfeeding nook.

Organic Fabrics and Accessories for the Earth-conscious Mother

For the Crunchy-Mom, the tools and accessories chosen for breastfeeding are an extension of her organic ethos.

AccessoryOrganic Options
Nursing PadsSelect organic fabric that is gentle on the skin.
Nursing BrasOpt for those made from organic cotton or bamboo fibers.
Nursing PillowsChoose pillows filled with organic materials.
Baby BlanketsOrganic muslin or cotton blankets are soft and free from harmful dyes.
Slings & Baby CarriersLook for carriers made from natural fibers with non-toxic dyes.

By weaving elements of the natural environment into  their breastfeeding journey , Crunchy-Moms can deepen their bond with nature, while diminishing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals for themselves and their babies.

The Art and Science of Pumping Breast Milk

Breastfeeding is a profoundly personal journey, and while the natural act of nursing directly is irreplaceable in terms of bonding, there are times when pumping breast milk becomes a necessary part of this journey. Whether it’s due to returning to work, needing to be away from the baby, increase supply, or simply wanting to establish a reserve, pumping can be a lifesaver. But like all aspects of motherhood, it comes with its own set of challenges and learning curves.

The first step is choosing the right breast pump. For mothers who need to pump frequently, especially working moms, a double electric pump like the Medela Pump In Style Advanced or the Spectra S1 Plus is often recommended. These pumps are designed for efficiency and mimic the natural sucking rhythm of babies, ensuring that milk is expressed comfortably and in less time.

For occasional pumpers or those on a budget, a manual pump, such as the Medela Manual Breast Pump , can be an excellent choice. It’s portable, discreet, and surprisingly efficient once you get the hang of it.

When starting on your pumping journey, it’s essential to remember that relaxation plays a crucial role. Just as with natural breastfeeding, the let-down reflex – the process that allows milk to flow – is influenced by your emotional state.

Finding a quiet, comfortable space, thinking of your baby, or even looking at their photos can help in efficient milk expression. Some mothers also find it beneficial to warm the breasts with a warm cloth or breast therapy pads before pumping or to massage them gently to stimulate milk flow.

While pumping can seem purely functional, it’s important to maintain a regimen that’s as close to your baby’s natural feeding routine as possible. This not only ensures a steady milk supply but also helps in preventing issues like engorgement.

Make sure to clean and sterilize all parts of the pump that come in contact with the milk to maintain its purity. Store the expressed milk in sterile bags or bottles, and always label with the date to ensure freshness. Products like Kiinde Breast Milk Storage Twist Pouches can be directly attached to most pumps and are excellent for hassle-free milk storage.

While pumping breast milk might feel daunting initially, with the right tools and mindset, it can become an empowering aspect of the breastfeeding journey. It allows mothers to provide their precious milk to their babies even when they’re not physically present, bridging gaps and ensuring that the baby’s nutrition is never compromised. As with all things motherhood, patience, practice, and a dash of self-compassion go a long way.

Holistic Solutions to Common Challenges

The journey of breastfeeding, as beautiful as it is, often presents hurdles along the way. But in every challenge lies an opportunity to turn to Earth’s abundant offerings for solutions. The Crunchy-Mom, armed with a reservoir of holistic knowledge, can gracefully navigate these challenges using the wisdom that generations of mothers have gleaned from Mother Nature..

Natural Alleviation for Teething Pain

Teething can be a tough phase for both mother and baby, especially when sharp little teeth come into contact with sensitive nipples.

  • Chamomile Teething Pads: Dipping clean cloths in chamomile tea and freezing them provides a soothing chew for little gums.
  • Frozen Fruit Pacifiers: Organic mesh pacifiers filled with frozen fruits like bananas can be a natural soother.
  • Frozen Breastmilk Pacifiers: the same principle for frozen fruit will also work for frozen expressed breast milk. 
  • Vanilla extract: dip your finger into pure vanilla extract. Using the slightest amount, rub the vanilla onto the baby’s sore gums. This will help to alleviate the pain. 

Holistic Approach to Mastitis

Mastitis can be painful and challenging, but there are natural ways to combat this inflammation in an effort to prevent the need for antibiotics:

  • Cabbage Leaves: As an age-old remedy, placing cool cabbage leaves on the affected area can reduce swelling and pain.
  • Massage with Essential Oils: A gentle massage using diluted lavender or tea tree oil can provide relief and combat infection.
  • Warm Compresses: Applying warmth with a cloth soaked in chamomile or calendula tea can aid in milk flow and reduce clogs.

If these remedies do not work, or you develop a temperature, be certain to contact your physician or midwife to discuss further medical treatment. Mastitis can lead to serious consequences if it gets too far out of hand. 

Natural Supplementation for Baby’s Nutrition

Ensuring our little ones receive all the nutrients they need is paramount. While we at Crunchy-Mom encourage and support women in breastfeeding as long as they choose to, adding these supplements to your baby’s daily food intake at the appropriate age can help ensure your baby gets the best building blocks for their bodies. Babies who are ready for solid foods and are getting mother’s milk will benefit greatly from high quality supplementation.

  • Cod Liver Oil: A rich source of essential fatty acids and vitamins A and D. Just a few drops can offer a nutritional boost. Add to a bottle for younger babies or to homemade foods for older babies.
  • Organic Bone Broth: Packed with minerals, it’s a nutritious addition for babies transitioning to solids. Use this to cook vegetables or for thinning out homemade purées. 
  • Homemade Vegetable Purées: Rather than store-bought jars, homemade purées from organic vegetables ensure baby gets pure and unprocessed nutrients.

Older babies who are ready to branch into solid foods will benefit from high quality ingredients, sourced from nature in meaningful ways. Enriching a baby’s diet while continuing to breastfeed ensures that the baby gets the best start in their nutritional life, a journey that deserves the very best as it lays the foundation for the nutritional life of the child. 

Vaccines, Medicines, and Breastfeeding

In a world where medical advancements constantly evolve, it’s natural for Crunchy-Moms to want to explore both  modern practices and age-old wisdom. This pull becomes especially prominent  when it comes to pharmaceuticals and vaccinations. With the intimate connection between mother and baby during breastfeeding, concerns about what passes through breast milk and its potential impacts are understandable.

Crunchy-Mom Concerns on Pharmaceuticals and Breast Milk

  • Natural vs. Synthetic: The debate on the merits and risks of natural remedies versus manufactured medicines is eternal. For Crunchy-Moms, the instinct often leans towards what’s natural, pure, and devoid of artificial compounds.
  • Side-effects and Long-term Impact: The concerns about potential side-effects and long-term impacts of medications on both the nursing mother and baby can be daunting, particularly when these substances are passed through breast milk.
  • Gut Health: There’s growing awareness about the importance of a healthy gut microbiome. With certain medications, especially antibiotics, there are concerns about disrupting the delicate balance of the baby’s gut flora.

Holistic Health Insights on Vaccines and Breastfeeding

  • Natural Immunity Boosters: Before the advent of modern vaccines, mothers relied on natural immunity boosters. Incorporating immune-boosting foods like garlic, ginger, and bone broth can enhance both the mother’s and baby’s natural defenses.
  • Informed Choices: It’s crucial for Crunchy-Moms to be well-informed. Consulting with holistic health practitioners or naturopaths can offer insights into the pros and cons of vaccines, helping mothers make decisions that align with their values.
  • Breastfeeding as a Natural Vaccine: Breast milk is laden with antibodies, white blood cells, and beneficial enzymes. By breastfeeding, mothers can pass on a portion of their immunity, offering the baby a natural protective shield against certain pathogens.

Navigating the intricate world of vaccines and medicines while breastfeeding requires balance, education, and intuition. By remaining informed and true to their holistic beliefs, Crunchy-Moms can tread this path with confidence, ensuring the best for their precious little ones.

Transitioning to Solids the Traditional Way

As babies grow and their curiosity for the world around them heightens, so does their interest in exploring new flavors and textures. This transition from exclusive breastfeeding to the introduction of solids is a monumental milestone in their developmental journey. For the Crunchy-Mom, ensuring that this transition is as organic and natural as possible becomes a passionate pursuit.

Introducing Organic Solids Alongside Breastfeeding

  • Start Slow and Steady: Begin with small amounts of one organic food at a time, allowing baby to adjust and ensuring there’s no adverse reaction. Solid Starts provides excellent advice on how to begin this process.
  • Continued Breastfeeding: While solids are introduced, continue breastfeeding as a primary source of nutrition. This offers a balance of familiar comfort and new exploration for the baby.
  • Organic Purity: Opt for fruits and vegetables that are free from pesticides and herbicides. This ensures the baby’s delicate system is not exposed to potential toxins.
  • Homemade Purees: Instead of store-bought variants, making purees at home from organic produce guarantees freshness and purity. Simple choices like mashed bananas, pureed sweet potatoes, or avocado can be great starters.

Traditional First Bites for Baby

Historically, many cultures introduced nutrient-rich and easily digestible foods as a baby’s first introduction to solids. Here are some time-tested options:

  • Bone Broth: A staple in many traditions, bone broth is rich in minerals and collagen, making it gentle on the baby’s tummy and nourishing for their growing bodies.
  • Rice Congee: In various Asian cultures, rice congee (a type of rice porridge) is a preferred first food. It’s easily digestible and can be mixed with a range of pureed veggies as the baby grows accustomed to it.
  • Mashed Roots: Root vegetables like carrots, yams, and beets have historically been preferred due to their natural sweetness and dense nutritional profile. Once cooked and mashed, they make for a delightful baby meal.
  • Organic Grains: Foods like millet, quinoa, and oats have been traditional choices in many cultures, offering essential nutrients and a versatile base for various meals.

Embarking on the journey of introducing solids is as exciting for the baby as it is for the Crunchy-Mom. By ensuring that every bite is organic, wholesome, and rooted in tradition, mothers can provide the best foundation for their little ones’ lifelong relationship with food. 

Breastfeeding in the Homeschooling Lifestyle

For the Crunchy-Mom, the choices of natural mothering often seamlessly align with the homeschooling philosophy. It’s about cultivating an environment of organic learning, fostering close family bonds, and being attuned to the child’s rhythms. When these principles of homeschooling intersect with the breastfeeding journey, they create a harmonious dance of nurturing both the mind and body.

Integrating Breastfeeding with Homeschooling Routines

  • Flexibility is Key: One of the beauties of homeschooling is its inherent flexibility. This can be a boon for the breastfeeding mom, allowing her to nurse on demand without disrupting the flow of learning.
  • Incorporating Baby into Lessons: Older siblings can be engaged in learning about human biology, nutrition, and familial bonds through the real-life example of breastfeeding. It becomes a live lesson in nurturing and care.
  • Natural Breaks: Use breastfeeding sessions as organic pauses in the day. It can be a time for quiet reading, reflection, or simply a break for other children to indulge in self-directed play or exploration.
  • Creating a Nurturing Nook: In your homeschooling space, carve out a comfortable corner for breastfeeding, equipped with cushions, soft lighting, and perhaps some nature sounds. It can double as a reading or relaxation spot for older kids.

The Benefits of Homeschooling for Extended Breastfeeding

  • Uninterrupted Bonding: Without the constraints of conventional schooling schedules, there’s no pressure to wean early. This can foster a prolonged breastfeeding relationship, honoring the natural weaning process.
  • Supportive Environment: Within the homeschooling community, there’s often a shared respect for natural parenting choices. This supportive environment can be reassuring for mothers who choose to extend their breastfeeding relationship with their baby.
  • Educating Through Action: Extended breastfeeding in a homeschooling setup allows children to grow up viewing breastfeeding as normal and natural. It fosters a sense of respect for bodily autonomy and nurtures empathy.
  • Balancing Needs: The close-knit environment of homeschooling allows parents to be deeply attuned to each child’s needs, ensuring that while the baby is breastfed, older children continue to receive intellectual nourishment and attention.

Breastfeeding within the framework of homeschooling offers a beautiful confluence of learning and nurturing. It’s a testament to the Crunchy-Mom’s dedication to creating an environment where the body, mind, and soul of each child are cherished and nourished.

In modern society, where convention, practicality, and the fast pace of modern life often dictates norms, the Crunchy-Mom stands as a beacon of natural and holistic parenting. This chosen path, while deeply fulfilling, may sometimes feel like swimming against the current amidst societal pressures and misconceptions, particularly in the realm of breastfeeding. Finding a way to gracefully navigate these challenges, while staying true to one’s beliefs, becomes an essential part of the Crunchy-Mom journey.

Handling Societal Pressures and Misunderstandings

  • Educate with Empathy: Encounters with individuals who misunderstand or question  breastfeeding can be approached as opportunities for gentle education. Sharing knowledge, backed by personal experiences and sometimes even scientific research, can shed light on the benefits and importance of the practice.
  • Confidence in Choice: Being a Crunchy-Mom is a conscious and informed decision. Holding onto this conviction can provide the strength to navigate unsolicited advice or critiques. Remembering the “why” behind your choices can empower you in the face of doubt.
  • Seek Solitude: In moments where societal pressures become overwhelming, it can be therapeutic to retreat into personal spaces of tranquility, be it a nature walk, meditation, or simply spending quality time with your child.
  • Avoid Comparisons: Every parenting journey is unique. While it’s natural to seek validation, comparing oneself to others can lead to unnecessary stress. Celebrate your individual path and the choices that resonate with your family.
  • Remember that you are the expert: You are the only mother your child has. You are the expert on your baby and what is best for your family. This is all that matters. 

Building a Supportive Crunchy-Mom Community

  • Join Local Groups: Seek out local mom groups or holistic parenting communities. These can be platforms for shared experiences, advice, and even playdates rooted in organic lifestyles.
  • Online Forums and Blogs: The digital age brings a plethora of resources. Websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to holistic motherhood can be treasure troves of information, experiences, and connections.
  • Workshops and Retreats: Attend or even organize workshops on natural parenting, breastfeeding, or holistic health. These can be platforms for learning, networking, and rejuvenation.
  • Celebrate Together: Organize or participate in events that celebrate the Crunchy-Mom lifestyle, be it organic food potlucks, nature hikes, or even book club sessions on holistic parenting topics.

Navigating society as a Crunchy-Mom is treading a path less traveled by the modern world. Generations of mothers long ago walked this path, and we at Crunchy-Mom hope to help bridge the gap in returning to a more intuitive way of parenting and living. Returning to the wisdom of old may be sprinkled with challenges, but it’s also enriched with profound moments of connection, growth, and authenticity. In the heart of a supportive community, every Crunchy-Mom finds her strength and voice, paving the way for future generations to embrace the beauty of natural motherhood.

Conclusion

The journey of motherhood is both vast and intimate, a tapestry of moments woven together with threads of love, challenges, choices, and growth. For the Crunchy-Mom, this journey is punctuated with a profound commitment to treading the organic and natural path, a choice that is as empowering as it is enlightening.

Breastfeeding, at its heart, symbolizes this dedication. It’s more than just a means of nutrition; it’s a declaration of trust in the body’s innate wisdom, a belief in the rhythms of nature, and an embrace of ancestral practices. By choosing the natural route, Crunchy-Moms not only nourish their children but also sow the seeds of holistic health, conscious living, and deep-rooted bonds.

Yet, every journey is enriched by shared tales and wisdom. To all our Crunchy-Moms reading this: We invite you to share your stories, your challenges, your triumphs. Do you have a treasured family recipe that has aided your breastfeeding journey? Or perhaps a home remedy that’s been passed down through generations? Your experiences are the lifeblood of this community, and by sharing, we weave an even richer tapestry of natural motherhood.

So here’s to celebrating every drop of milk, every moment of connection, and every choice that honors nature’s wisdom. Here’s to the Crunchy-Mom and her beautifully organic journey.


Photo of author

Crunchy-Mom

In a fast-paced world, Crunchy-Mom champions a return to natural living. Raised valuing nature & home-cooked meals, she, a teacher, noticed modern education's gaps in holistic wellness. Becoming a mother intensified her quest for natural child-rearing practices, birthing the Crunchy-Mom movement—promoting breastfeeding, challenging industrial foods, & embracing timeless traditions. Today, it's a community where she, through blogs & workshops, advocates that nature often knows best for our kids.

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The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your healthcare professional or physician. The information presented here should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Do not disregard, avoid, or delay seeking medical advice due to something you have read in this article. Crunchy-Mom encourages readers to conduct their own research and consult with healthcare providers before making any changes to their healthcare regimen. Use of any information provided by Crunchy-Mom is solely at your own risk.