Tag Archives: mum

Jul 27 2017
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Mummies tales

Is connected the new confused? 

Forget trying to think of answers to any questions or finding out information in books. These days we have a wealth of information literally at our fingertips. This is so amazing, yet every single day when I scroll through my social media I am hit with a heap of artcles telling me what I should and shouldn’t be doing as a parent. 

Are we all expected to raise children that are perfect all the time? They must have manners, be spirited but not cheeky,  have created 6 apps by the age of 7 and be a natural at any sport they attempt.  

All while the parents never yell. Play with them,  but not too much, they must know how to be bored.  Praise them, but not use the phrase ‘good girl or ‘good boy’, this could shame another child or be taken the wrong way? Show them affection, but don’t kiss them on the lips. Someone on the internet might think that’s gross! Both parents are expected to work, but also be available for all school/kinder functions and acivities (that always seem to be held during business hours)…..Oh and don’t forget you must feed them only organic food, be a plastic free household and don’t even think about giving them refined suger (that stuff is pure evil). 

I’ll admit, I read the articles and I do think about them.  So many questions have swirled around in my head. Should I control cry or not?  Is breast really best? How do I restrict screen time? What are all the milestones again? Why are they such picky eaters? Do humidifiers work? Am I a good mum? 

I’ve decided screw it, half of these articles are simply click bait……..No one is perfect and being a parent is overwhelming enough without all these extra ‘guidelines’. 

The truth is every child is different and parenting styles are different. We are all just doing our best to raise happy, healthy, well balanced children.  Sure, read the articles. Be open to new things, but take it with a grain of salt. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty, especially if you’re a new parent. Do what works for you, your baby and family.  I do 😀 

Rachelle xx 

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Jul 02 2017
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Mummies tales

C-section – what really happens

When I was pregnant with Hudson and found out I was having a c-section I heard all sorts of horror stories. I also Googled (don’t do it). There were tales of staples, huge scars, excutiating pain, infections and awful recoveries. It was very hard to find anything that sounded like a standard straight forward story. I have since had two c-section’s  (one emergency and one elective) and I wanted to share what happened to hopefully put some people’s mind at ease and share something positive to cut through all the negative horror stories.

Firstly, I want to say that I complely understand that everyone has different birth stories, this is my experience only. I am not speaking on behalf of anyone else.

The process of c-section for me was just fine. Here is my experience:

▫ As with any operation the nerves kick in just before you go in. I felt so much better once I saw my Ob/Gyn, the familiar face really helped calm my nerves.

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Waiting to go in for my c-section with Hudson 

▫The spinal block – this worried me. In reality this is over super quick and both of my anesthetists were great and talked me through the whole process.

▫ Catheter – I have never had an operation before and the thought of a catheter really worried me. I didn’t even notice it. It’s inserted after the spinal and they take it out the next day. You are so happy to have your baby you really pay no attention to the catheter.

▫It’s quick – from the spinal to meeting your little one is a really quick process (probably 15 minutes).  Before you know it you will be stitched up and in recovery. For me, the whole process took about 45 minutes both times.

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▫ Stitches and scar – Both times I had internal stitches and one large stitch closing the wound. No staples. I paid special attention to the wound care and now my scar is minimal. It’s very low (just above my pubic bone). I can still wear a bikini if I want to and it’s really no big deal. Contrary to some Google stories, my scar is horizontal, not vertical and is not across my whole stomach. My stitch was removed before I left the hospital.

▫Pain management – the hospital I was at were amazing with pain management. Pain meds were given before I felt pain and I left the hospital taking only Voltaren and Panadol. Ensure you ask for pain meds, there is no need to be a hero. Take them before you are in pain.  It makes recovery a lot easier.

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Me and Scarlett – one day old

▫ Bleeding – you bleed after any birth and c-sections are no different. From what I hear it’s not as heavy as after a vaginal birth but yes, you still require the surfboard maxi pads.

▫ Driving – with my doctors approval I was able to drive two weeks after both my c-sections. I read a lot of information about not driving for 6 weeks, this wasn’t the case for me.

▫ Breastfeeding – I had no trouble with milk supply or breastfeeding. The c-section didn’t affect this for me.

▫ Physical activity – I was up and walking the next day. I was restricted with certain activities for 6 weeks (vacuuming etc) but hey, who wants to vacuum anyway. I was able to go for walks as soon as I got home and could commence normal exercise after my 6 week check up.

Overall, I had two positive experiences. I’m not saying that this is the case for everyone. In a world of negative stories, it’s sometimes nice to hear everything is going to be ok. I now have two beautiful healthy babies and that’s what really counts.

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Rachelle xx 

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May 19 2017
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Mummies reviews, Mummies tales

Looking for childcare?

When it came time for me to return to work, I toured a lot of childcare centres. To be honest I didn’t fall in love with any of them. Staff were always lovely but the centres were often quite old and run down.

Now there is a new wave of childcare centres on the scene and they are amazing. Hudson, Scarlett and I recently had a wonderful time checking out the Guardian Early Learning Group centre at 101 Collins Street Melbourne. There are 38 of these centres in Victoria and many more Australia wide, if you are considering childcare it’s definitely worth checking them out.

The centre we went to is located at 101 Collins Street, right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. perfect for working parents.  I was expecting a small centre with not a lot of light and no outdoor areas. However, the centre is huge (it spans over two levels), really bright and there are two large indoor/outdoor areas for the kids to play.

In addition to the indoor outdoor areas I learnt about the amazing ways they get the children out and about. There is a special 8 seater stroller that is used for trips to the park, art gallieries and walks around the CBD. They have super cute little rain suits so the kids can really enjoy their time out and not even Melbourne weather will stop them.

Scarlett’s highlight was meeting the pet fish and the kids even got to hold the pet bird that lives at the centre.

Hudson loved the indoor/outdoor area and even made a friend while he was playing outside.

I loved the open plan feel, light bright presentation of the centre. However, my absolute highlight was the open kitchen area. Children can sit and watch the chef prepare their nutritional meals and everyone is welcome at the centre for breakfast. This would definitely help with time management in the mornings as mum, dad and any siblings are welcome to eat with the little ones.  Parents only have to worry about getting dressed and hopping on the train or in the car. A nutritional breakfast is waiting at childcare (including coffee).  I often drop the kids off in a frenzy and end up eating something in the car or skipping breakfast all together.

There is an open door policy and parents are welcome to visit their children at anytime (perfect for breastfeeding mummas), the director told me some parents take their kids out to lunch. I would love to be able to have lunch dates with Hudson and Scarlett on work days. or simply pop in and say hello, I think they would love it and I would have way less mummy guilt about having to leave them while I work.

There is a fully funded kinder program and the fees are really reasonable. If you would like more information feel free to contact one of the Guardian centres or check out their website 

Rachelle xx

 

 

 

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Apr 07 2017
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Mummies tales

Hypoxi update 

I’m just over one month into my Hypoxi journey. A lot of people have been asking me about results and if it’s working. 

I am extremely happy to report that yes indeed it is working. I have noticed my skin elasticity has changed and I have lost a total of 15cm of my tummy, hips, thighs and knees (yep, who knew, even my knees were a little bit chubby). I haven’t really changed my diet and still enjoy a glass of wine. 

When I was approached by Hypoxi to try it I was quite skeptical and didn’t have high expectations. I recieved a lot of comments about how Hypoxi doesn’t work, can’t possibly work and is ridiculous. I have discovered that it actually does work.  I was really just looking to tone up and feel comfortable since having my kids. I went into this not expecting much of a loss. 15cm gone is a bonus and I’m very happy with it. My stomach feels much flatter and toned and so do my legs. 

Each week I have been 2 – 3 times and I’m in and out within an hour. Hypoxi is certainly not taking up much of my time and I find it quite relaxing.  Before I had kids I used to go to the gym 5 times a week. I just haven’t had the motivation to return and always made excuses. Since starting Hypoxi I realise I do have time.

I really wanted to make the most of this opportunity. So this week both my husband and I have started working out in the morning before work (hello 5am wake ups).  Once I’m out of bed and going I actually really enjoy it. It gives me energy and helps me make better food choices throughout the day. 

The one thing I have also noticed is that staff at Hypoxi are lovely. They really know their business make you feel comfortable and are happy to help with any questions.

If you’re thinking about it give the Hypoxi free trial a go or phone one of the studios and ask about it.  The studio I go to is super busy and I have seen men and women of all ages, fitness levels and sizes. It’s a very supportive environment and not threatening like some gyms can be.  I just wish I knew about it earlier. Hypoxi is perfect for shifting that post baby weight and wobble. 

I will post again with further results and photos. 

Rachelle xx 

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Mar 07 2017
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Feature Mummy

Feature mum Q&A – Rachel @insta.beauty.mummy 

Rachel is a beautiful, stylish working mum of two little boys (Max and Leo). She has an amazing Instagram account where she gives us some wonderful tips and tricks with make-up and beauty products. I had the opportunity to ask her some questions.  

Hey Rachel welcome to The Mummy Code, tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

  • What do you enjoy most about being a mum? Watching your children grow and adapt their own little personalities. I find it fascinating how much they learn and just how individual they actually are. I also can’t go past their cuddles and smooches! THE BEST! 
  • What do you find the hardest? I can be quite impatient at times, so trying to keep calm when they are pressing my buttons is probably what I find the hardest.  
  • How do you balance work and mum life? I don’t know to be honest! I think it probably helps that I am super organised and like order. I actually love the balance of my career and being a mum. I get great satisfaction from the both and I wouldn’t change it. I also hope it sets a great example for my children that women can be mums, but can also have a successful career, and on the same token, dads can also have their careers but parenting and housework is a shared responsibility. 
  • What are you three makeup or beauty products that you can’t live without? Haha! Just 3? OK here they: 1. Fake tan. 2. Lash extensions. 3. Concealer. 
  • Tanning hints or tips? Exfoliate really well the day before tanning, and use cetaphil lotion every day to stop it from cracking or fading. 
  • Who is your style icon? Hard one but probably Jessica Alba. She is effortless chic, down to earth, gorgeous on the inside also and a career woman as well as being a mum. 
  • What is your favourite way to spend time as a family? We have absolutely been loving the pool lately. The boys are at a really good age to enjoy it and they have an absolute ball. Watching them laugh and play all day long is priceless. 

Thank you for answering my questions. 

Rachelle xx 

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Feb 24 2017
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Mummies tales

Quick tone up #mumbod

So this week something happened. A miracle? You could say that. This week I did something other than walk the dog, go food shopping and clean the house in my active wear.  I actually worked out.

Since having Scarlett over two years ago the most exercise I have done is run around at the park with the kids and walk the dog. While I walk a lot and have managed to get back to my post pregnancy weight I have been left with some bits that jiggle and wiggle a little more than I would like. Between working four days a week and two kids, there really wasn’t much time left for me to be going on huge runs or joining a gym and going there for hours on end. I tried the whole doing a quick workout while the kids sleep but I found it really hard to motivate myself to do it while I had so much housework to do.

Before I had children I did really enjoy exercise and went to the gym 4-5 times a week. It was never about losing weight for me it was more mental and I liked feeling toned. It gave me some time to clear my head.  These days, I seem to put the things I enjoy last and instead focus on what my family needs.

My body has changed since becoming a mum, I am thinner up top and tend to carry more wiggly bits around my stomach and thighs. I no longer feel toned and I miss that feeling. At no point do I want to be a gym junkie or health nut. I just don’t have the time and I enjoy food and wine waaaaay to much.  At the end of the day, I really just want to fee comfortable in my clothes and set a good example for my children.

Recently, I was approched to give Hypoxi a try through the #mumlifehack campaign. It’s gentle low impact exercise that can apparently help you achieve more results with less effort. Hypoxi is also meant to be more effective at targeted fat loss than other forms of exercise.  I’m no athlete and probably the most uncoordinated person I know so I figured that this sounds like it’s right up my alley.  I also liked the thought of targeted weight loss as I really don’t want to lose anymore weight around my chest. Am I skeptical? Well yes, of course. All my years at the gym taught me that targeted fat loss doesn’t happen.  I guess only time will tell and I will share my journey over the next couple of months to see my results. For now here is my first experience.

My first Hypoxi session started like any other gym session. Weigh in, measurements (ergghhh, I hate that part) and a chat about my expectations. The staff are really helpful, explain how everything works and answered my questions. My advice for the first session is not to just rock up in your ripped nanny knickers as all the measurements are done on skin so you end up with your pants around your ankles.  Thankfully, I had a tasteful pair of Bonds on, but I was worried what I was wearing for a few seconds when the lady told me to pull my pants down.  Anyway, I digress. I was then put into some sort of space suit that feels like bubble wrap is popping all over my tummy and legs. I am told to lay down and relax for 20 minutes (something I haven’t heard in years). Time flew by and before I knew it I was ushered to a sit down bicycle looking machine and I pop on what I can only describe as a skirt made of wet-suit material. This clips into the machine and I need to cycle for 30 minutes while vacuum pressure goes on and off around my lower body. I am instructed to keep my heart rate in the ‘fat burning zone’ (don’t worry, I had no idea what that  ‘zone’ was but the lovely lady explained it to me).  My 30 minutes was over fairly quickly and I can’t say I broke a sweat or was huffing and puffing. I enjoyed the time to myself and being able to watch Ellen in peace.  If this works, it definitely seems like a wonderful way to exercise. It’s low impact and you’re in and out before you know it.

I would say my first Hypoxi experience was a good one. I’m excited to see what results I get and will share my journey on the blog,  Facebook and Instagram along the way.

If you’re curious to try you can head to the Hypoxi website for a free trial.

Rachelle xx

 

 

 

 

 

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Feb 09 2017
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Feature Mummy

Feature Mummy – Ange (@activeandstrong)

​Ange is a personal trainer, mum of two very spunky little boys and one of my best friends. She has recently started her own personal training business Active and Strong. I asked her some questions about working out and losing baby weight.

What made you want to make the career change to personal training?

Well, before I was a Personal Trainer, I was a Swimming Instructor. I’ve always enjoyed “teaching skills” so I wanted to expand on that and seeing as though I’ve always had an interest in exercise,it seemed like a natural progression. I’m so glad I made that choice because now I get to help women by teaching them what needs to be done to achieve whatever their goals may be.

How do you stay motivated to work out with two little boys to run around after?

I view exercise as a privilege rather than a chore so it’s easy to do something that I enjoy. My kids are always watching me and I feel as though I’m setting a good example for them for when they get older. I try to include them aswell and often we’ll make a game out of it like, “Let’s see who can do the most jumping jacks?” I will never know what tomorrow will bring so whilst I’m capable of moving my body, I’m going to make the most of it. I also include activities that I really enjoy. Running is not one of my favourite forms of cardio so instead I go swimming which I absolutely Love.

How long did it take you to lose baby weight and do you have any tips for other mums?

Ooooo that’s a good one. I don’t actually know at what point I returned to my pre-baby weight?

I’m estimating it was about 9 months to a year. I put on 28kgs with both pregnancies. I wasn’t active during my pregnancies and my favourite treat was a slurpee… or 3! If I could give any form of advice for Mums trying to lose their baby weight, I would say give it time. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and enjoy those moments with your new baby. If you want to lose the weight, it will happen…. in time. New Mums should wait until their 7 week postpartum checkup before engaging in exercise so don’t rush out and join a bootcamp or buy an online program before this stage.

Did you work out when you were pregnant?

No I actually didn’t. I lapped up every second of relaxing on the couch that I could. However, if I were to have another baby, I would definitely stay active during my pregnancy. Just after having my second son, we discovered that I had DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) in my calf. This resulted in 7 weeks of blood thinning injections into my stomach twice a day. Not fun! It was at this point that the Doctors told me that I needed to include exercise into my lifestyle on a regular basis to ensure my blood flows smoothly.

What is your favourite workout?

I absolutely love ab and core exercises! I also have a soft spot for a workout called “Tabata”. It’s an interval form of training, meaning you work for a certain amount and then rest and repeat. It raises your metabolism for up to 24hours after the workout which means you’re still burning calories while watching Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Who wouldn’t love that!

There are all sorts of theories about when is the best time to work out. Do you find it more beneficial to work out in the morning or afternoon?

Yep, you’re right there is a lot of theories on the best time to workout. Working out in the morning before breakfast is called working out on a fasting state. Your body looks for a fuel source and it will go for your fat stores. Sounds good doesn’t it? Well I wouldn’t actually recommend it for everyone. It’s going to be a hard workout and you’re going to tire easily because you don’t have any carbohydrates (the bodies most easily accessible source of energy) to give you that boost of energy to not only get through the workout but to do each exercise with the correct form and concentration. I wouldn’t recommend working out in the morning without breakfast if you’re a beginner because I doubt you’ll find it enjoyable and will probably not want to exercise again with the preconception that every workout will be that difficult. My clients are mostly Mothers so I recommend to them to workout when it suits them. It may be during the kids nap time, or when they’re at school or kinder. Maybe it’s when hubby gets home after work. Whenever it is, make it a time that suits you.

Do you follow any sort of diet?

No, I don’t. Anyone that knows me will know that I’m a sucker for sweets. I’m a believer in everything in moderation and yes that means sugar and carbs too. I’ll eat healthy dinners one night and then I’ll have takeaway the next. I never feel guilty about it because I enjoy all sorts of food and I don’t want to spend my life on a never ending diet.

On average how often do you work out? Also, do you split weight sessions and cardio?

I try to workout four-five times per week. I’m happy with my weight so I’m exercising purely for the enjoyment, health benefits and staying active with my kids. I do split my cardio and weight days. Full body weight days should not be done one day after the next as you need 24hrs to allow your body to recover. So some weeks I’ll do 3 days of weights and 1 cardio whereas other weeks I’ll do 2 days of weights and 2 days of cardio. I like to change it up and keep it interesting.

What is your ultimate cheat meal?

I don’t really do “cheat meals” but I certainly do sweets! I love chocolate, cheesecake or a white wine paired with soft cheese. Yummmm!

Who is one woman who inspires you and why?

I’ve always admired Cameron Diaz and her ability to constantly stay active and select activities that she really enjoys such as yoga and stand up paddle boarding. I’m also inspired by every single woman who is doing everything in their power to become active. It can be tough but their commitment to taking that first step is so wonderful to see.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions.

If you would like to join Active and Strong, Ange is offering a discount of 10% for anyone who mentions The Mummy Code when they book their position in a Group Fitness Session beginningTuesday 21st February 2017 at Yarrunga Community Centre, Croydon Hills Vic

Rachelle xx

 

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Feb 01 2017
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Mummies tales

How do you do it?

I’m a working mother, I work 4 days a week and have had my job for 6 years. After both of my children I returned to work relatively early (7 months). Working gives me balance and purpose. Plus, I like contributing to our household income and setting an example for Hudson and Scarlett. However, the older they get the more I am struggling. 

My work has a policy where I am meant to return to work full time when Scarlett is at school. This is still a few years away but it’s a concept that I struggle to get my head around. School isn’t like daycare. The hours are much shorter. I often lay awake worrying hiw this will work? How on earth is this managable? Can I be present for my children, get them to after school activities, help with homework and be the mum I want to be. All of this while working 40 hours a week (with a 2 hour commute each day)??? If anything this is a time where they really need me to be there for them. 

My husband runs his own business so his hours are long and ge can’t do drop offs or pick ups, he also doesn’t get paid annual leave. This means before and after school care with school holiday programs. I can get some help from family, but again I don’t want to be the mum that is never there. 

How on earth do parents manage? Working full time, children, homework, food shopping, cleaning, washing, cooking, activities, family time and friends. Is it even possible? Cost of living is expensive so its really just not as easy as throwing in the towel and saying ‘I quit.’ 

It appears in our quest to have and do it all we have found ourselves in some sort of crazy situation where it is impossible.

I’m so thankful for my job and healthy children. In no way am I whinging. I’m simply asking the question. Is it even possible? Will I regret these choices later in life? Will my children resent their mother who was always rushing around and busy?  I want to be there for my babies while they still need me. 

Other working mums, how do you do it? 

Rachelle xx 

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Jan 17 2017
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Mummies tales

Give it time

When you are pregnant all the books, websites and other mums tell you about the overwhelming feelings of love you will have for your child from the second they are placed in your arms. Some women gush about how they love pregnancy and the feeling of growing a life inside of them.

It’s no secret.  I didn’t enjoy pregnancy, not for one second. All the sweating, nausea, hunger and stretching of everything (mainly my pants and bras) just didn’t appeal to me. Every now and then I enjoyed the little kicks but 90% of the time I felt like an alien had taken over my body.

My son Hudson was born six weeks early, saying this came as a surprise is an understatement. When I heard my baby boy cry for the first time I was so happy. I was overcome with emotion. Yet, I wouldn’t describe it as it says in all the books. Love wasn’t gushing out of me like an overflowing sink.  I had mixed emotions, he was taken to the special care nursery straight away. I was excited, upset, confused and 100% scared out of my mind. 

Then, it came time for Hudson to come home.  I was still so frighted,  he was tiny and had reflux so he cried A LOT. I was a new mum with no idea and when my husband returned to work I felt very alone. It was like being given a new toy with no instructions. I loved my baby but was waiting for this warm fuzzy, fluffy feeling that I had heard about? Why wasn’t I gushing love from my pores? Glowing? Declaring my love for my child like all these other women?  What was wrong with me?

Looking back on this time, I realise there was nothing wrong with me. I was adjusting to a massive change in my life. I had a rough start, difficult baby,  was incredibly sleep deprived and frankly it’s just not my personality.  I love both of my children more than anything in this world. I would walk accross hot coal to protect them,  jump to their defense and claw your eyes out if you hurt them. However,  this feeling has developed over time. I feel like I have got to know them and like any new experience it’s daunting at first.

I tell all my friends and any first time mothers not to expect these amazing, overwhelming warm feelings of love straight away as it’s not always the case. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother, it doesn’t mean you don’t love your children.  It just takes a little time to bond, confidence, some sleep and everything gets better. Everyone’s experience of motherhood is different, dont ever feel bad for being honest and admitting your true feelings just because they are different from others or from what books describe.  You are  a good mother!

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Rachelle xx

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Jan 05 2017
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Mummies tales

Words I never thought I would say…..

I don’t drink coffee. Yep! I have two children (Hudson 4 and Scarlett 2) and I think I have stopped drinking coffee. 

I say I think because in the words of Bieber ‘never say never’. However, it’s been almost two months and I can’t see and end in sight anytime soon. 

In two months I have gone from having up up to 4 cups of black espresso to having none. 

I was the ‘hook it in my veins, don’t speak to me before I have had a coffee’ person. I could not function without it and I didn’t want to know what would happen if I stopped. 

So, why did I stop? I was getting headaches and my husband also said he was thinking of seeing if he could quit caffine. I figured I’d give it a go. 

I’m not going to lie, the first 2 days were hard. The headaches were intense and all I could think about was having a cup of coffee to make them go away. I felt exhausted……like sitting at my desk almost falling asleep exhausted. I thought I would be more easily irritated, but the reality was I was too tired and had such a bad headache I couldn’t care. In hindsight, I probably should have cut down and not just stopped cold turkey. 

After a few days started to feel better. I was drinking more water, had more energy, was not experiencing the caffine crash and I was sleeping better. 

My husband and I have decided to keep going caffine free and haven’t looked back. My skin has improved (probably from all the extra water) and instead of having a rush of energy and then a crash, my energy levels feel more consistent all day. I also feel that I am less anxious/stressed about small things and I haven’t had any headaches.  

I realise I used coffee to procrastinate, often thinking to myself ‘I’ll just have a coffee and then I’ll …..’. Now I just getting things done,  my mind actually feels clearer and I’m more focused. 

Overall, it’s been a positive change. I still adore the smell of coffee and I’m sure I will have one again at some stage. I just want to avoid going back to being so reliant on that little black drink. For now I’m happy sipping on herbal tea and water. 

If you’re thinking of giving it a go, just try it. Set a small goal of a week or two and see how you feel. Once you get past the first couple of days it’s smooth sailing. 

Rachelle xx 

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