Happy holidays everyone! Below are a handful of thoughtful gift ideas you can give that special expectant or new mom in your life.
Personally I am all about giving your time/energy and supporting local makers/businesses in your community when gifting. I have included some gifts from a doulas perspective, that I’m sure she will love.
In no particular order!
Birth (Exercise) Ball - a birth ball is essentially an exercise ball. When purchasing a ball take into account her height. Her hips and knees should be at a 90 degree angle when she is sitting on the ball. A birth ball can be used throughout pregnancy, during labor, and to soothe a fussy newborn. She will get a lot of use out of one.
DIY morning sickness kit - if she is experiencing morning sickness I know she will appreciate this gift. Things to include are: Vitamin B6, Ginger, Soda Water, Saltine Crackers and Acupressure point wrist bands. It would be a nice touch to a list of helpful tips to lessen pregnancy sickness, for example eating frequent smaller meals.
Quality Time with You! -Make her feel special. This can be a date night in or out of the house. A simple walk in nature can also be very meaningful and get a new mama out of the house.
Be her support Person - Going to appointments with her to meet with the OBGYN/Midwife/Doula/Pediatrician etc. It really means a lot to her and makes her feel supported.
Pampering goodies or Gift Certificate from Hello Young Soapery - all small and handmade batches right here in Gillette, WY by a creative mama with two young kiddos. The products have very minimal ingredients and something you can feel good about putting on your skin. https://www.facebook.com/helloyoungsoapery/
Mama Natural Book- such a fun and easy to follow week-by-week pregnancy guide for the natural minded mama. https://www.mamanatural.com/book/week-by-week-guide-pregnancy-childbirth/
Spinning Babies Parent Class DVD- This DVD is in the doula library for my clients, but it would also be an amazing gift. It helps educate the expecting mama or parents about labor and how to help baby get into an optimal position. I can't recommend this DVD enough. https://spinningbabies.com/product/spinning-babies-parent-class/
Gift Certificate from Ignite Pilates for Pre- and Post-natal TRX classes - local to Gillette, WY. This class will get a mama moving and give her some time for herself. There are so many benefits exercise has for the mind and body. https://www.ignitegillette.com/post/pre-and-post-natal-classes-may-come-to-ignite
Comfy PJ's & Heating Pad - Comfort and heat- oh yes!
Raspberry Leaf Tea/Dates/ Calm Magnesium - Raspberry leaf tea is a great tea to tone your uterus and get a mama's body ready for labor, dates have been shown to shorten labor length and magnesium is a nice night cap to help get a restful sleep.
Day of Self Care- What women, especially a pregnant or new mama wouldn't love a day to get a massage, manicure/pedicure, or facial. If you are looking for a certified prenatal massage therapists local to Gillette, WY I would highly recommend: Heavenly Mobile Massage https://www.facebook.com/HMMASSAGE19/ and/or Integrative Massage Therapy https://www.facebook.com/Integrative-Massage-Therapy-Gillette-WY-312508998800208/
Prepared Homemade Meal(s)- There is truly nothing better than not having to worry about what is for dinner...especially when you have a newborn or pregnancy has you tired and worn out.
House Cleaning Service - A messy and cluttered space can be mentally exhausting for a mom with a newborn. A clean space can really be a peace of mind!
I hope these gift ideas are helpful! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everyone!