Healthy Understanding: Mountain Parent Magazine by MOUNTAIN PEARL Magazine

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HEALTHY

U N D E R S T A N D I N G OUR ANNUAL QUEST FOR WELLNESS

HEALTHY E X P E C T A T I O N S

What is Prenatal Yoga?

Prenatal Yoga can guide you into your innate capacity for birth and motherhood. ASHLEY WEITZEL WILSON R a d i a n t M a m a s Yo g a Carbondale

Yoga offers a deep foundation to empower us as we navigate the journey of pregnancy, labor, motherhood, parenting and life. This expansive practice provides us with incredible tools to help us connect, honor, and enhance ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. The positive benefits we receive from this practice are not limited to the practitioner; thankfully, its impacts can be felt or shared with surrounding family, children and friends. Prenatal yoga can specifically assist women of all physical backgrounds in finding ways to strengthen & support their body, navigate their emotions, and settle their mind in this wild and transformative process of pregnancy. Expectant mothers will be guided through specific physical poses as well as breathing techniques to empower their pregnancy and labor. Prenatal yoga classes offer a supportive community where participants can safely strengthen their process and body and build a greater emotional connection with their babies.

Benefits: •

Deepening & expanding the mind/body connection.

•

Creating invitations for mamas & babies to bond with each other

•

Developing body awareness and compassion as we honor the ever-changing pregnant body

•

Allowing expectant mothers to safely strengthen and stretch in preparation for labor

True Nature Prenatal 3-Day Retreat April 5th-7th

•

Decreasing pain & discomfort commonly present in pregnancy

Valley View Hospital Classes for Women’s Health Patients Wednesdays 11:12-12:30pm

•

Releasing stress and anxiety

•

Safely building stamina, strength, balance, & flexibility

•

Enhancing mental well-being

•

Cultivating a sense of harmony and balance

•

Building a supportive community for expectant women

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OPEN Soft Belly Breathing Exercise THIS EXERCISE HELPS EXPECTANT MOTHERS TO SLOW DOWN, DROP IN, AND CONNECT WITH THEMSELVES AND THEIR BABY.

Find a comfortable seat with crossed-legs on the floor. Or sit up tall in a supportive chair with your feet on the ground. Begin to breathe comfortably in and out of the nose and allow yourself to settle into the breath. After you have established a steady rhythm, take a full inhale and feel your baby softly rocking forward as your navel gently moves away from your spine. As you exhale, sweetly hug your baby back towards your spine as you gently engage your deep belly muscles. Each inhale, see your belly and low back expanding slowly like a balloon as you create space and expansion. Each exhale, find a soft contraction as you draw yourself and your baby closer to your center. Do not force or stress the breath. Work to keep the breath soft and fluid. Continue to stay relaxed as you practice this breathing technique, allowing the mind to slow down, releasing stress, as you use belly breathing to sweetly rock both you and your baby.

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HEALTHY H A B I T S

Sleep and your newborn

S A R A H B AY 8 Straight Sleep Consulting Carbondale

You’ve just had a baby.

Congratulations and welcome to the incredibly rewarding, joyously amazing and I’ve-never-been-so-tired-in-my-life club called parenting! It won’t be long into your journey – a month if you’re lucky – before all of your people start asking you, “How does he sleep?” Seriously. They will come up to you in the grocery store. They will ask you in the line at Starbucks (as if your doubleshot Caramel Macchiato is not an answer in itself). All of your neighbors will need to know the answer to this age-old and virtually unanswerable question. Because, how does he sleep? Well, he sleeps like a newborn. Newborns are essentially learning how to exist outside of the womb. Think about it: a newborn baby has no idea what the heck just happened. One day, he was perfectly safe and comfortable in this floating paradise and then suddenly, life is dramatically different. Perhaps you’ve heard of the ‘Fourth Trimester.’ If not, allow me to bring some light into this fascinating topic. The first three months on the outside can truly be considered the final fetal development phase. Yes, you have a newborn baby. But, in actuality, he could have used a few more months inside. I know, sounds horrid considering how badly you wanted him out, right? He would have chosen a few more months, but alas, it was time for him to exit into the big, wide world. Therefore, as he enters this world, he is still developing as he was inside the womb. What does this mean for your newborn and “that” question everyone keeps asking you? Here are a few handy answers for those who ask:

Newborns aren’t supposed to sleep through the night. In the womb, they are literally eating around the clock. Therefore, that’s often what they do when they exit – they eat around the clock, no matter what time of day it is. They also can’t tell time, so there’s that…

As a parent myself, I am here to give you full and complete permission to do whatever it is that you need to do for that sweet, squishy little baby. If she is two months old and she’s still waking up four times a night to nurse, that’s OK. That’s what she needs. Don’t feel pressured to put her on a schedule. Truth be told, she’s just not ready yet.

3. Follow your instincts and do what feels right to you.

4. You won’t ‘break’ your baby. There is

virtually nothing you can do that cannot be reversed and re-trained when baby becomes a bit older and ready to learn a new skill – like sleep. Therefore, if you end up being one of those I-will-neverco-sleep parents who finds herself cosleeping in an effort to get what seems like a combined hour of sleep at night, don’t worry. Just rest (pun intended) in the fact that this too, will pass.

With that, realistically, when is a baby ready to learn how to sleep through the night?

I begin my work with clients as early as four months. At this time, baby is no longer that squishy little I’m-afraid-to-break-him newborn. He’s just hit some major brain and physical development milestones. He might be reaching or grabbing for something in front of him; he might be able to roll over from front to back; his sight is now much clearer and he can begin to see colors, shapes and recognize his people; he now cries to communicate in different ways (hungry, boredom, tired). Crying to communicate different needs becomes a major key to our success.

So, let’s talk for a minute about tears.

When it comes to sleep training your baby, the question I get asked most often: will my baby cry? My answer: I never want a baby to cry. Never ever. Babies are so sweet and so innocent (and, let’s call a spade a spade – so darn cute). Here’s the truth: when it becomes time to teach that sweet little thing how to sleep for longer stretches, she’s going to be frustrated. We are asking her to do something she hasn’t yet learned how to do and that’s frustrating. Because she can’t talk yet and express her frustration verbally, she cries. She doesn’t have a concept of fear or abandonment. She just knows that she’s being taught something that isn’t coming naturally. But, it will. Sleep training is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Perhaps you’ve read a book on baby sleep. Or, perhaps you’ve read “all” the books. It’s OK – I did, too. And, what I found was that every book was written with a different tone, a different message and frankly, without knowing me or my baby. Therefore, for me, sleep coaching becomes a ground-up process – a plan created precisely for you, your environment, your parenting philosophy and your goals. So, enjoy your newborn today. And, tomorrow, we tackle sleep!

HEALTHY P E R S P E C T I V E S

Tongue-Tie

New approaches to two common wellness issues of early childhood

L AUREN SUHRBIER M O U N TA I N PA R E N T

When our second child was born in May, I had two goals. Goal #1: to try for a VBAC (vaginal delivery after caesarean). Thanks to the amazing teams at Women’s Health and Valley View Hospital, we succeeded with that goal. Goal #2: to get off to a good start with breastfeeding, which did not go well with our first child. Although the evidence may be conjectural, I believed that avoiding a C-Section would help my milk come in and help us achieve goal #2. For me, the caesarean involved a lot of drugs, a lot of pain and a long recovery. I felt that all of these contributed to a failed attempt at nursing. Baby Caroline was born the healthiest of kids and we still are counting our blessings for this. But, Goal #2 was a struggle right away. She had a hard time latching, and even when she did, her suction was weak and extremely painful for me. Within the first day at the hospital, the attending pediatrician diagnosed her with a severe tongue-tie.

What is tongue-tie?

According to the Mayo Clinic: “Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. With tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth, so it may interfere with breastfeeding. Someone who has tongue-tie might have difficulty sticking out his or her tongue. Tongue-tie can also affect the way a child eats, speaks and swallows.”

What is a Frenotomy?

We agreed with our doctors’ initial recommendation, trying to correct Caroline’s tongue-tie with sterile scissors. In the case

of some infants, the lingual frenulum is so thick that entirely releasing it with scissors is not recommended, which was the case with Caroline. So after seeking help from Carbondale Lactation and Carbondale Family Dental, we decided to plan a second frenomoty when Caroline was 5 days old. Dr. Andy Nardeccia used a Solea Laser to cut the frenulum further. The procedure didn’t require anaesthesia and didn’t seem to inflict pain.

Results?

Within hours of the second frenotomy, Caroline’s latch was greatly improved. With a little more guidance and a lot of perseverance (on my part) she started gaining weight, had reduced indications of jaundice and nursing became less painful. Of note – post-procedure care is critical for success. The frenulum will reconnect within days if it isn’t rubbed several times a day. Babies don’t seem to like this, but it doesn’t hurt them. Thanks to expert care and advice, Goal #2 was a success!

Who to call?

While services from providers change all the time, we currently know that All Kid’s Dental and Carbondale Family Dental offer frenotomies using a laser, and Pediatric Partners can do them with sterile scissors.

Notes on insurance and timing:

My experience was that getting this covered by insurance was challenging. You’ll have the best chance of coverage if your pediatrician writes a referral to a local dentist before the procedure. Time is of the essence. The sooner the problem is addressed, the easier the healing will be, and the quicker breastfeeding can get on track.

Food Allergies

drive less. see more.

DR. ROBERT MCDERMOTT Allergy, Asthma and Immunology of the Rockies DR. KIMBALL SPENCE Roaring Fork Family Practice

“

Recent evidence suggests that early introduction of tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, eggs and milk can lead to a reduction in developing an allergy to these foods.

How do I start introducing foods that are possibly allergenic?

“

DR. ROBERT MCDERMOTT

Friends help friends put skis on the bus.

RIDE TOGETHER. SKI TOGETHER.

Around 4-6 months (no later than ten months), once your baby tolerates complementary foods (cereal, fruits and vegetables), it is advised to start introducing allergenic foods, starting with 1 new food every 3-5 days. • Soy (mashed tofu, soy milk) • Wheat (wheat cereal) • Peanuts (peanut powder in cereal, creamy peanut butter) • Tree Nuts (cashew, pistachio, hazelnut, walnut, almond, pecan*) Introduce as butters / spreads or milks or in baked goods. *The FDA labels coconut as a tree nut, however, this is in fact a seed, so most people who are allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut.

• Dairy (start w/ baked goods; if tolerated, try yogurt or cheese) • Eggs (start w/ baked goods; if tolerated, try scrambled eggs) • Fish (cod, salmon, tilapia, mahi mahi, trout, tuna, etc.) and Shellfish (lobster shrimp, crab) Due to flavor / texture, this may be less tolerated by your baby. Try dipping your finger in the fish / shellfish, and then putting your finger in your baby’s mouth. Or try puréeing fish stews or bisque and feeding it to your baby.

What are the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction? It can be difficult to tell if your baby simply doesn’t like the food, or if she / he is having an allergic reaction. These will usually happen within 60 minutes of eating the food: • Fussiness • Vomiting • Rash (redness or hives or both) • Diarrhea • Runny nose • Watery eyes • Coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing If you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention and notify your doctor. An allergist can help you evaluate if your child had an allergic reaction.

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HEALTHY L I M I T S

o •DA

WITH D I A N A G R A B E R best-selling author of Raising Humans in a Digital World Community Event: March 11

H T•

PAT T I C O N N O L LY Teacher – WSRF Carbondale

TE N

p.59

Slow Tech Parenting in the Age of Digital Citizenship

D E TR T H Y A IL S

“How To” for Slow Tech Parents Media Manners & Digital Safety for Kids develop the thinking and social-emotional skills needed • Close your devices when eating alone or with others. •forChildren engaging in digital technology very slowly. It takes years to Do not look at your screen or text while talking with someone. model and teach a child these needed skills, so that she will become • an ethical, balanced, creative digital citizen. “Excuse me” to those you are with if you must respond • Say, urgently to someone online. For children to develop healthy habits when using screens, parents •must Be polite, kind and respectful online, as you would in person. gradually let them use screens to learn how. (It’s similar to • learning how to dress. We don’t wait to teach our children to dress • Be an up-stander online - stick up for others. themselves until they can do it completely on their own. We gently Tell a parent or trusted adult if you get messages or photos that guide them to do more and more of it themselves until they can • make you uncomfortable or if others are being bullied, complete the myriad of tasks in dressing independently.) The child definitely doesn’t need to be on screens for hours each day, but zero use does not cultivate balance and self-control.

•

Parents can have different media expectations for each child, depending on their age and developmental need. When parents are lovingly firm about their values concerning tech use, they can set healthy limits. Screens are tools – not entertainment! Learn the difference between •passive consumption of media (TV, DVDs, etc.) and participatory media

– especially interactive apps and games. Show your child how to use these technological tools when the need arises just like how you teach her to use a hammer or a broom. Think of educational apps like classic board games and activity sets.

•

Know that it’s healthy for all of us to watch an age-appropriate movie for fun, or to watch one’s favorite sports team play a game, or to listen to age-appropriate music that interests us – all within healthy limits.

disrespected or treated badly online.

a website’s rules and know how to flag other users • Understand for misbehavior, such as online bullying or impersonating others. the privacy of others. For example, never forward a text • orRespect photo without asking permission. Do not befriend, chat or virtually game with someone without • your parent’s permission. • Do not share private photos online. not give your name, school’s name, age, phone number, email • Do or home address online. • Keep passwords private with everyone but your parents. Recognize “red flags.” Here’s one: someone asks personal • questions such as your name and address. • Do not text/phone while riding a bike, walking or crossing a street. Do not send or share anything online that you wouldn’t want the • entire world to see for eternity.

6 Healthy Habits

F O R S L O W T E C H PA R E N T S

“

Think about the internet, social media and hand-held devices as if they were a big bowl of chocolate candy. Imagine telling your child to take that bowl into her room, close the door, and then eat only one piece each day. . . . PAT T I C O N N O L LY

1. Model healthy digital media habits.

Set down your devices when talking to your child. When a child initiates a connection with a parent she needs to respond with full attention. Tell her what you are doing when you engage with a screen. Eliminate background TV and shut down your computer at night. Model online etiquette and adhere to social media restrictions for your child.

2. Follow a Slow-Tech “Media Diet” with your child. (See chart on p. 40) 3. Do your research.

Decide what your child’s media diet will be – based on age, academic need, and type of devices. Find and preview apps that enhance your child’s learning in the real world. (e.g., using an app that turns a tablet into a magnifying glass) and ones that involve creating books, art, and music. Find and preview good viewing content by checking reviews and surveying friends. Use commonsensemedia.com to make the Internet safer for your child. Block certain sites, filter search results, and use a kid browser with built-in parental controls. Keep aware of what’s new in the virtual world – the latest trends, safety issues, etc.

4. Play, watch and learn together.

Engage in participatory media with your child. “It’s a great opportunity for what we call ‘joint attention,’ or the interactions between a child and a [parent], the back-and-forth, which is critical not just to language development, but brain development,” writes Dr. Dimitri Christakis. Co-view content and discuss what you’re watching and talk about advertising. Show your child a book, article or video that helps her learn about technology.

5. Talk about media and tech with your child.

Say, “tell me” instead of “show me.” It’s so easy to quickly pull up a definition, video, etc. Instead, encourage your kids to let a thought or question incubate. Talk with your child regularly about what she is doing/viewing on screens. Brainstorm with your child how to deal with possible situations of being exposed to content you haven’t approved beforehand or with using devices without filters. With your middle–school child, talk about ethical challenges and personal risks of digital media such as cyberbullying, sexting, online advertisements and online predators.

6. Follow your tech-wise family digital media agreements. Here are some to consider:

• “Device-Free Times” – mealtimes, in car, family outings and visits. • For sleep to be restful, shut down all devices one hour before bedtime. • Keep hand-held devices out of all bedrooms. • Computers are in the busiest room in the house. • Place the charging station for all devices in one central location. • Watch only one device at a time.

Here are a few alternatives to screens when on longer car rides:

Have your child create with jewelry and art making kits, reusable sticker books, activity books, silly putty, wiki sticks, beeswax modeling and a travel doodler or etch-a-sketch. Bring along a Rubik’s cube, Madlibs, 20 Questions, “Would You Rather” card game, and travel bingo. Enjoy an audiobook together or read a classic children’s book aloud, and, of course, have a collection of books for her to read.

“

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Slow Tech Media Diet

created by PATTI CONNOLLY and DIANA GRABER

based on the American Academy of Pediatric’s 2013 Guidelines AGE

HOW MUCH SCREEN TIME ? Generally

PARTICIPATORY MEDIA

PASSIVE MEDIA

Video Calling

Learning / Playing (with Apps)

Emails / Texts / Social Media

Use Family PC / Tablet

Own Smart Phone

Non-Interactive Media (TV, DVDs)

(Facetime, Skype)

0-2 YEARS

very little

with parent

not yet

3-6 YEARS

very little active use with parent

with parent

play with parent limit: 5 minutes per day

email only to family, with parent typing

not yet

either none or educational content with parent on weekends

7-9 YEARS

slightly more active use with parent

with parent initiating contact

play with parent most of the time limit: 15-30 minutes per day

email only to family, with parent typing

with parent

not yet

educational content with parent on weekends

10-12 YEARS

gradually increase active use, most with parent

with parent initiating contact

yes with limits: 30-45 minutes / day

email with parent until child can type

read e-books, research w/ parent; 30 minute limit

not yet

educational and parent approved on weekends

13-14 YEARS

incease in active use set agreements created with parents

with parents aware of who child is communicating with

yes with limits: 30-45 minutes / day

email using child-safe apps

read e-books school research & homework

possibly w/ clear rules and “co-pilot” app

age appropriate on weekends

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HEALTHY B O U N D A R I E S

Teaching our sons and daughters about sexual consent in the ME TOO era JENNIFER HAWKS Yo u t h Z o n e Glenwood Springs

Living in a bubble...

My bubble has popped!

The reality is, although circumstances may not always be as extreme, in the Roaring Fork Valley things do happen here. We do have teenage pregnancy and suicide. We do have teenagers that run away and are homeless. We, as parents, have either experienced or know another parent who is right now experiencing great grief watching their teenager going down a path that we know is not good for them. Working at YouthZone as a Youth & Family Specialist, as well as being of mother of two (a 20 year old son in college and a 17 year old daughter in high school) I see on a daily basis the impact the #METOO movement has had on teenagers. I have seen both positive and negative effects of this growing movement and have had discussions with many parents about supporting their kids with healthy boundaries.

“

The courage and strength I have seen from teenagers using their voices has empowered others to speak up. It has also opened up our eyes as parents and is forcing us to have important conversations with our teenagers. JENNIFER HAWKS

“

I often tell my friends and family back home how grateful and fortunate I am to get to live in the Roaring Fork Valley and how “protected” I feel being in this beautiful bubble. I tell them about the breathtaking views of the mountains, the softly flowing rivers, the abundance of a never-ending outdoor playground, the sense of community, and having a village in which to raise our kids. I have even heard myself say on occasion, “that doesn’t happen here.”

I work with teenagers who are dealing with the post-traumatic effects of experiencing nonconsensual sexual contact. Now, because of the media attention given to the #ME TOO movement (and the unfortunate episodes that are fueling this news coverage), younger kids are learning about these incidents via social media without supportive education. On the positive side, the courage and strength I have seen from teenagers using their voices has empowered others to speak up. It has also opened up our eyes as parents and is forcing us to have important conversations with our teenagers.

Here are some tips I have shared with parents to support their kids. Let’s transform #ME TOO into #NOTME:

1. Boundaries

What are your kid’s boundaries? Do they even know what that means? Make sure they understand what a boundary is and why it’s important to set boundaries. As a parent, you could start the conversation by asking your teenager to tell you what boundaries mean to them, tell them some of your boundaries, then ask them to share with you some of theirs.

2. Role Modeling

“

I ask my daughter regularly to tell me what she loves about herself and what she would change. I ask her what she needs. I tell her she is loved unconditionally and how lucky I am that I am her mother.

“

JENNIFER HAWKS

We must role model to our kids what healthy boundaries look like. Whether it’s in your relationship with your spouse, your friends, your co-workers or your kids, it’s important that we show them how to be treated and how not to be treated.

3. Communication

Let’s talk to our kids about what they think is okay and not okay. How will they let others know this? Are they able to be open and direct about their boundaries? Sometimes it’s easier for teenagers to do this if you take them out of the focus and ask them what their friends would think and what would their friend do.

4. Positive Self-Regard

Do they feel good about themselves? Low self-esteem can lead to the inability to create or maintain boundaries. I ask my daughter regularly to tell me what she loves about herself and what she would change. I ask her what she needs. I tell her she is loved unconditionally and how lucky I am that I am her mother.

5. How to Seek Support

If they feel their boundaries have been violated, do they know where to turn to for support? Can they talk to you? Who can you call as a parent for support? In my opinion, this is the most important conversation we must have with our teenagers and ourselves, so that if something happens, our kids can immediately get the support they need.

There are resources for teenagers and parents in the Roaring Fork Valley. Some are as simple as talking with other parents, school staff and online resources. We have many licensed therapists in the Valley who are excellent resources. At YouthZone, we offer one-on-one consultations with parents, where we can provide recommendations to meet your teenager’s situation. We can also set up a time to meet with you together with your teenager to assist with communication and support. We believe that no matter what happens, no one needs to go through it alone, or in silence or shame. (YouthZone is an award-winning, evidence-based diversion and advocacy program that has served youth and their parents from Aspen to Parachute for over forty years. The local nonprofit has offices in Aspen, Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, and Rifle. See page 48 for more details.)

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HEALTHY B O D Y

I recently read that in the U.S. an astonishing 91% of women hate their bodies.

Throughout history, women have been pressured and shamed to look a certain way. This is not just a modern media issue; it has been prevalent in cultures throughout the world since the beginning of time. Since I began researching my project I have noticed that many women, at some point in their lives, have been seen or treated as an object rather than being treated as a human being who deserves respect. Today, we’re familiar with the societal pressure that goes along with “ideal” body image, particularly among females. While skinny models may populate most of today’s magazines and media, emphasizing an unhealthy obsession with thinness. Women have always been under some form of pressure to look a certain way. We see objectification of the female body today in different types of media such as magazines, TV, and film, as well as in the fashion, music and modeling industries. Although media has brought this issue to light, it started as far back as the 1800s. While at that time the ideal body was not rail thin, it was actually very full and voluptuous. In 1800, for example, this “ideal” form was depicted in Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s painting “The Large Bathers.” In this painting, the women appear to be comfortable in their curves and full figures.

Loving ourselves exactly as we are BRAE HUBBARD

“

Boulder

“

This breaks my heart, but I am determined to start a conversation and bring awareness to this worldwide issue. I chose to start this conversation by doing my own survey. I wanted to find out how many women in our community struggle with these issues and if or how they have made peace with it.

I M A G E

“

The Body Image Movement is an internationallyrecognized crusade founded on the belief that your body is not an ornament. It’s the vehicle to your dreams. Everyone has the right to love and embrace their body, regardless of shape, size, ethnicity or ability.

“

BRAE HUBBARD

Until the 20th Century, voluptuous and curvy women were considered the ideal woman in the U.S. and Europe. Even though this ideal of the female body was revered at that time, I imagine the women of different body types felt a similar self-hatred that is felt today. In the 1920’s, Flappers dominated the style industry with thin lean builds and “bob” haircuts. Flappers resisted traditional roles and started living a more rebellious lifestyle. This is an example in U.S. modern history where women have shown their disdain for being treated as objects, and then created their own rules. Unfortunately, this spirited resistance did not last long. Our culture moved into objectification of women for the remainder of the 20th century. In the 1940’s and 50’s, curves became popular again as depicted by Marilyn Monroe and other models and actresses that became “pin-up” girls. The leggy, curvy blonde was the pinnacle of attractiveness during these years, and is still considered one of the most beautiful women in American history.

“Pin ups” were posters created primarily by male illustrators and mass-produced to be pinned up on the wall. This created an impossible ideal because the artists, similar to the process of Photoshop today, altered these images. Girls today may argue that they are put under more pressure than the women in the 1950’s, but the truth is, women in that time were just as sexualized and pressured by society. Although the women of that time were heavier set, the fashion industry and cultural pressures were just as scrutinizing. Starting in the 1960’s, and up until very recently, skinny has been the driving ideal body type in our culture. The idea that every body type should be skinny is an ultimate misconception of the natural female body. This image began with a model named Twiggy, who was rail thin and without any curves. In the 1990’s, this thin image became even more emaciated looking and was glamorized by the model Kate Moss, who said, “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” This solidified an

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WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT • Childbirth preparation classes for new and returning mothers, partners and siblings • Pain management techniques to support your birth plan • Post-discharge availability to address your unexpected questions and concerns • Lactation follow-up consultation • Weekly “Bosom Buddies” support group aspenhospital.org |

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We teeter between the “thin-spiration” ideal and the emerging popularity of plus-size models. These models are transforming our society’s pressure for thinness. They are introducing the idea that beauty is natural regardless of your shape, color or size. This is the beginning of a new Body Positive movement in the U.S. where women are encouraged away from “plus size” terminology and toward simply “my size.” The “ideal” female body image has been through many changes over the years, and has followed the media’s portrayal of women of the times. Now, there is a growing number of healthy body image advocates on social media who are addressing detrimental cultural beliefs around body image norms.

This movement is bringing awareness and support for women worldwide to heal our cultural wounds around our bodies and helping us to “embrace” the beauty of who we are. “It’s not the body that makes someone happy or sad. It’s the thinking,” says my mentor Emily Hightower of Carbondale, who empowers people to heal through her company, Ondalu. “It’s the toxicity of the mind. Someone who can’t walk can love their body, and this can radiate from their heart. A perfectly ablebodied and healthy person can hate themselves for those last 10 pounds. It’s all subjective.”

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It’s not the body that makes someone happy or sad. It’s the thinking. It’s the toxicity of the mind. Someone who can’t walk can love their body, and this can radiate from their heart. A perfectly able-bodied and healthy person can hate themselves for those last 10 pounds. It’s all subjective. E M I LY H I G H T O W E R

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obsession with thinness that continues to permeate the female body image. Mass media often eschews being our “natural self,” highlighting unnaturally skinny as better. For most women, this is unattainable.

Taryn Brumfitt, an advocate from Australia, created a documentary titled “Embrace” and has a company called Body Image Movement (BIM). This now internationally recognized crusade was founded on the belief that your body is not an ornament, it’s the vehicle to your dreams. BIM believes that everyone has the right to love and embrace their body, regardless of shape, size, ethnicity or ability.

HERE WHEN YOU NEED US! DR. HEATHER MURPHY

Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist Head & Neck Surgeon Whether it’s a tonsillectomy to treat recurrent ear infections in children, sinus surgery or advanced diagnostics, your family will receive the highest quality care.

Appointments: 970.544.1460 0401 Castle Creek Road, Aspen

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY & CONCUSSION CARE FOR KIDS

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Our specialized team uses progressive care and state-of-the-art technology to treat adult and pediatric brain injury patients.

Open weekends and evenings, when you have urgent medical needs and your doctor’s office is closed. Walk-ins welcome!

Appointments: 970.544.1177 0401 Castle Creek Road, Aspen aspenhospital.org |

Monday – Friday, 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

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HEALTHY P E T S

The relationship of diet to cardiac health DR. DOUG BAHR, DVM sponsored content cour tesy of W illi t s Ve ter inar y H os pi t al, Bas al t & Glenwo o d Spr ings

Heart disease and diet

Heart disease is reported as leading cause of death year after year. Frequently, heart disease in humans is acquired later in life and often exacerbated by poor lifestyle choices (ie. bad eating and exercise habits). Conversely, dogs and cats are much more resistant to acquired heart disease. That being said, maintaining good body condition through routine exercise and proper diet is extremely important to your pet’s overall health (especially for their joints!!). When specifically considering cardiac health in our canine and feline friends, our focus should be on genetics and understanding our pets diet.

351 Robinson Street, Suite 1014 Basalt, CO 81621

970-510-5436 COMING SOON: Willits Veterinary Hospital at Glenwood Meadows

For dogs

Recent studies examining the long-term effects of grain free diets on dogs have uncovered an association with a specific form of heart disease known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). As a result of these studies, the FDA issued a warning (see www.fda.gov) which alerts pet owners of the cardiac risks, associated with grainfree, legume rich diets. Although these diets have gained much popularity over the last few years, there are actually no proven benefits for our pets.

Grain and grain free diets

Proponents of these diets have two major arguments: #1 The idea that the dog’s digestive tract did not evolve to digest grains. Because wolves are certainly predators, this argument seems intuitively true; however, the most desirable “cut of meat” for a wolf is actually the intestines of their grain-eating prey. Several genes have been identified in dogs that allow them to easily digest carbs (including grains) without consequence. #2 Grains are common food allergens for dogs leading to itchy skin and poor hair coats. Contrary to this claim, proteins, such as chicken are the most common source of food allergies that cause significant skin issues. It is important to consult with your veterinarian regarding your pet’s allergies.

For cats

Hypertrophic Cardio Myopathy (HCM) is the most common form of heart disease in cats. Although the exact cause of this disease is unknown, genetics certainly play a part. The best way to screen cats for this condition is annual exams where your veterinarian can listen for abnormal heart sounds and rhythms. Unfortunately, there is no preventative measure to avoid HCM but there is much that can be done to manage this condition once diagnosed. Cats who have this heart condition are at increased risk of developing blood clots that frequently end up lodged in major vessels. In all cases of HCM, the sooner the diagnosis is made; the sooner medications can be initiated to prevent terrible secondary effects of the disease. The diagnosis of HCM is definitively made using echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart). Annual physical exams performed by a vet along with a full history of clinical signs are the first step to staying on top of your cat’s cardiac health.

In conclusion, it’s important to take your dog for routine walks and get your cat off the couch. Do these things routinely to develop a habit and build up to more strenuous activity. Most importantly, know what breed/combination of breeds you’re dealing with, familiarize yourself about appropriate diets and understand the known heart conditions associated with your breed of dog or cat. Lastly, have your pet examined by a veterinarian annually to catch and treat heart disease early.

C O N N E C T I O N S

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HEALTHY

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8STRAIGHTSLEEP@GMAIL.COM 8STRAIGHTSLEEP.COM “Take Two of These and Call Me in the Morning” $175 Let’s face it. The more you know, the better armed you are for success. This package does just that – we suit you up and get you ready to coach that baby into happy and healthy sleep habits. This plan includes a personalized sleep plan, an hour’s worth of phone time and an entire week of follow-up emails. Failure is not an option!

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20/20 EYE CARE

(970) 945-2020 2020EYECARE.COM 20/20 Eyecare offers the most advanced equipment available in the industry today, allowing us to detect potentially sightthreatening eye conditions at an earlier state for all ages.

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GLENWOOD SPRINGS, RIFLE, EAGLE (OPENING FEBRUARY), ASPEN (ORTHODONTICS ONLY) Award-winning locals’ choice for kids, teens and adults for orthodontic care and pediatric dental needs for years. Schedule your child’s first appointment right after their first birthday in the nurturing, interactive environment.

ASCENDIGO

(970) 927-3143 ASCENDIGO.ORG Ascendigo provides services for anyone on the autism spectrum. Our team has specialized training to work with children and adults with all levels of ability, behaviors, and functioning.

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ASPEN BIRTH CENTER AT ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL (970) 544-1130 ASPENHOSPITAL.ORG

It’s where families are born! Every step of the way, the Aspen Birth Center provides exceptional, personalized care for all new mothers and their families. From birth center classes and preparation, to labor and delivery, to the Bosom Buddies support group, we help new mothers during this exciting new time of parenting.

CARBONDALE FAMILY DENTAL (970) 963-1616

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With the Solea laser, we are able to perform anesthesia-free fillings, infant frenectomies, and other restorative and cosmetic procedures in less time and without lasting numbness.

ROARING FORK FAMILY PRACTICE 978 EUCLID AVENUE CARBONDALE, CO 81623 (970) 963-3350 350 MARKET STREET (WILLITS TOWN CENTER) BASALT, CO 81621 (970) 384-7115 From newborn babies to great grandmas, we take care of your entire family with up-todate, evidence-based care. Our care doesn’t end once your appointment ends: we help you navigate the health system, ensure your after-hours questions are answered by a Roaring Fork physician, and offer extended Saturday and evening appointments.

Wellness A D V E R T I S E R S A N D C O N T R I B U T O R S :

DR. HEATHER MURPHY EAR, NOSE & THROAT SPECIALIST, HEAD & NECK SURGEON AT AVH (970) 544-1460 ASPENHOSPITAL.ORG

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY CARE AT ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL (970) 544-1177 ASPENHOSPITAL.ORG

ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL AFTER HOURS CARE (970) 544-1250 ASPENHOSPITAL.ORG

The Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Program at Aspen Valley Hospital launched in 2014, allowing physicians, therapists and trainers to access best practices when managing adult and pediatric TBI patients. AVH uses Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS) technology to assess the physical, visual, auditory and cognitive abilities of individuals with brain injuries.

Where do you go for urgent medical needs on the evenings and weekends? After-Hours Medical Care in Basalt (operated by Aspen Valley Hospital) provides a broad spectrum of care by board-certified physicians who are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, such as: upper respiratory infections, flu, sprains, simple fractures and more. Walk-ins are always welcome! Monday – Friday, 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm; Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

MOUNTAIN FAMILY HEALTH

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Providing affordable primary medical, dental and behavioral health care in one location. The Basalt Integrated Health Center will provide comprehensive, integrated primary medical, behavioral and dental health car. Accepting private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare and offer a sliding fee scale for all services.

Our mission is to create support and provide peace and hope for those touched by pregnancy or early infant loss; to create a safe haven to grieve and to heal; and to educate and advocate awareness around the needs of mothers, families, and caregivers experiencing such a loss.

Prenatal and post-natal yoga classes help cultivate strength and ease in order to support your body, heart, and mind. Students will be guided through breathwork, physical postures, and relaxation offering a deep sense of nourishment and connection. Open to all levels and stages of pregnancy and post-pregnancy.

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MINDSPRINGS HEALTH

YOUTHZONE

Mind Springs Health offers a full continuum of care and range of therapies for mental illness, behavioral challenges, and/or addiction. We work with all ages and provide customized treatment plans for all clients including children & adolescents.

YouthZone offers parent consults and education to support parents in identifying needs of the family and offers resources available at Youthzone and in the community. Parents will receive fast, effective strategies that focus and build on parents’ individual strengths.

Did you know otolaryngology is the medical term for specialty care of the Ear, Nose and Throat? Dr. Heather Murphy at Aspen Valley Hospital provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for both adult and pediatric patients. Areas of expertise include chronic nasal and sinus conditions; voice and swallowing disorders; ear infections, enlarged tonsils and adenoids; facial plastic surgery; hearing issues and vertigo; head, neck and thyroid surgery.

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Our Cone Beam CT scanner provides advanced imaging technology for our patients. The NewTom 5G captures equal or better image quality compared to traditional CT scans, while exposing patients to far less radiation with fast results.

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