Of course you want your baby’s nursery to be as healthy as possible – but where do you start?

Everyone’s jumping on the bandwagon these days and labeling their products “green,” “organic,” “eco-friendly”, and “healthy.”

The problem is, there’s a lot of confusion about what’s what, and the terms tend to get used interchangeably. Our customers tell me all the time that with so many terms and standards, it’s easy to get confused – and I agree!

For a rundown on everything, read on…

{Eco, Green, Organic, Healthy: What’s the Difference?}

Oh gosh – all this writing about babies makes my biological clock start ticking again. Every time I hold a baby I get a new crush, and if I had one right now, these are some of the products I would be using.

Wee Go Baby Bottles glass bottles by Babylife have been re-introduced with a twist: a modern silicone sleeve that protects the bottle from breakage and bumps. This covering is free of plastics and is 100% non-toxic and both the bottle and sleeve can be boiled or put in the dishwasher together. Great for baby’s tiny grip too.

Serena & Lily organic bedding: Cotton is one of the most chemically intensive of crops to grow so not only is it bad for farmers and our environment, we also don’t want our precious babies slumbering deeply on pesticide heavy fabrics. Serena and Lily organic bedding brings their elegant and timeless look to nursery décor. Yes, it is more expensive but it can be passed on and used for generations to come so less waste and less chemicals.

Ok so not only is The Safe Sippy™ adorable, this stainless steel drinking cup is one small step in creating a less toxic world for our children. No more plasticides, Bisphenol A or other harmful chemicals, and with a leak free design, this sippy definitely accomplishes its goal: Clean In, Clean Out.

When my son was little, it was all about his personal plate and special spoon. Even at seven, he loves the Boon Groovy Bowl (and Feeder, though he is obviously past that stage – but he says he would want one IF). This interlocking, brightly colored meal system is PVC, BPA and Phthalate free and the four compartments keep food separated. Perfect for dipping entertainment too!

Kimberly Danek Pinkson, also know as EcoMom, is passionate about living an eco-friendly life… and she’s one of The Cradle’s favorite contributors (See Ask EcoMom). For more information about Kimberly and the EcoMom Alliance, visit her site…

{EcoMom Alliance}

Nurture and Wellness: 5 Ways to Take Care of Yourself During Your Pregnancy…and Beyond

One of the things I did a lot during my first pregnancy – and try to do as much as I can during this pregnancy – is nap, rest, or sleep whenever there was (and is) a spare moment. Another sound piece of advice I got was to “nap when baby naps, if you can.” I did.

I see a lot of moms out there who are overwhelmed and overtired. Listen, we have all been there, but what I am getting at here is how crucial it is that we take care of ourselves, love and nurture ourselves, and refuel – or else we will run on empty all the time and that serves no one at all.

During your pregnancy, take the time to nurture yourself so that you carry that self-care over into parenthood.

1. Light some candles, turn on some relaxing tunes, and slip into a warm bath. Relax, take a moment, andbe grateful for this time and breathe. Okay, so later your baths may lack the candles and soft music but still take some time to be alone in your bathroom in the tub and yes – breathe.
2. Dare I say this again? Sleep, rest, catch some zzz’s, a little shut eye. Do this now during pregnancy whenthe hormones exhaust you, and get in the habit so you’ll carry it over into postpartum for as long as you can. My four-year-old just stopped napping but when I can slip away for even five minutes and close my eyes I do.

3. Get a prenatal massage. At least one during your pregnancy. Find a way. And then later, get the kids to rub your feet. There is nothing like the sweet tiny hands of your young child lovingly stroking the back of your neck. Even give yourself a foot massage with some nice smelling lotion. Sometimes, late at night one everyone’s asleep, I wash my feet and rub sweet coconut cream into the souls of my feet. A perfect example of self-care.

4. Get some fresh air and walk around the block. Do this every evening after dinner to help prevent acid reflux. Let the day unwind beneath your swelling feet. Reflect and let it all go. Later, throw the baby into a carrier and take longer walks or hand the baby off to Dad or whoever is around and take 5-10 minutes outside of the house for you…just you.

5. Meditate. Okay, this may be a long shot for many. But meditating need not be complicated. Just close your eyes, slow down your breath, and focus on it for just a few minutes. The good news: you can do it just about anywhere.

These are just some ideas. Create your own mini ritual, find a few ways to nurture yourself, ways to recharge during your pregnancy and after. No one can take that away from you.

For more info on Anna, visit PureStyle Living.

When it comes to food and pregnancy, it seems like the topic is always enshrouded in confusion. How much should one eat? What should one eat? What should be avoided?

Here are a few key points that I have done my due diligence on.

• We need only an additional 300 calories per day when pregnant and 600 more when lactating.

• Avoid raw fish, raw meat like deli meat, and unpasteurized soft cheeses. Some raw, soft cheeses like imported brie have been linked to fetal-harming bacteria called Listeria.

• Increase protein intake up to 65-70 grams per day.

• Skip caffeine, refined sugar, and alcohol.

• Try to eat every two hours (always including some protein) to keep blood sugar balanced.
• And stay hydrated (2-3 liters of water a day).

When it comes to pregnancy eating, think about how you will want your child to eat when he is about 3-4 years old. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, protein, fiber, and (sure, every now and again) a treat. Everything you eat is helping your baby grow and develop, so honor your cravings but do your best to help create a strong and healthy foundation for your child.

P.S. Pick up Domenica Catelli’s wonderful cook book Momalicious: Fresh, Fast, Family Food for the Hot Mama in You! You will use it for years.

Exercise: Yoga for You and Baby

The most frequent question I am asked as a prenatal yoga teacher is whether it is safe to begin yoga during pregnancy even if one has never done yoga before.

Yes, if one receives the thumbs up from their doctor or midwife that it is okay to do exercise while pregnant Prenatal Yoga is not only safe but a wonderful form of exercise throughout one’s pregnancy. It is a great way to strengthen and tone your body to prepare for childbirth, a great way to stay fit during your pregnancy, and a wonderful way to connect with your body and your growing baby inside you.

If you are new to yoga stay away from non-prenatal yoga classes and if you have had a deep practice for years continue doing what feels comfortable for you, modifying the Asanas over time.

Prenatal yoga is nurturing and a modality of exercise that has been designed for your changing body and getting into a class is a wonderful way to connect with other pregnant women who are going through similar changes as you. If you can’t find a class near you I encourage you to pick up my yoga dvd , Anna Getty’s Pre and Post Natal Yoga Workout. It includes a disc designed for all stages of your pregnancy and a second disc with 9 short post baby workouts.

If yoga is not for you find something else that feels good like Pilates, swimming, pregnancy belly dancing, or hiking. The most important thing is to keep your body moving.

Visit Anna’s website PureStyle Living.

Declared and founded by holistic lifestyle expert Anna Getty, May is officially Pregnancy Awareness Month (PAM). Anna’s intention is to empower pregnant women with information, ideas and inspiration on how to incorporate healthy changes into their lives, for themselves and their children. This month, we’re lucky to have Anna as a weekly guest blogger!

Exercise: Clean Up and Clean Out

I recently learned that on average, babies are being born with over 200 chemicals in their systems.  This was discovered by studying the cord blood of newborns. This is not meant to scare you, although it may. This bit of information is meant to get you to be proactive at any stage of parenthood.

Whether you are deciding to conceive, are recently pregnant, about to give birth, or have young children already, it is not too late to get proactive, to educate yourself, and to make different choices. For example, I am often told that eating small amounts of tuna during ones pregnancy is safe. Well, The Environmental Working Group recommends that women of child bearing age and young children under 5 do not eat any albacore tuna at all. Most albacore has very high levels of mercury.  My doctor often asks me “if I were to hand you a class half full of poison and a glass full of poison, which would you drink?” My response is always a resolute, “neither.”  So why chance it with fish when you have a vulnerable developing baby growing inside you? Another study recently revealed that some infant formula has the ingredient perchlorate, which is found in rocket fuel! Again, the point is not to terrify you but to remind us that we are indeed living in a toxic world and it is up to each and everyone one of us to do our research and seek out reliable sources to help us decipher the toxic from the healthy.

Eat organic food whenever possible, get rid of beauty products and household cleaners filled with chemicals, and begin to take care of the temple that your body is. We will pass our good health onto our children.

P.S. Pick up a copy of Sara Snow’s Fresh Living: The Essential Room-by-Room Guide to a Greener, Healthier Family and Home.

P.P.S And of course the new paperback addition of Healthy Child Healthy World by Christopher Gavigan.

Visit Anna’s website: Pure Style Living

This organic baby food is so fresh and delicious – we are seriously crushing on its vibrant, rich colors and creative combinations. (Our Cradle food tester, six-month old Piper, went nuts over it!)

They offer a seasonal menu so you know that you’re your little one is eating the freshest fruits and veggies available. From their basics (Sweet Potato Puree) to their blends (Pear-Kiwi-Apricot Puree… yum) to food for tots (Oven Roasted Turkey Meatballs), your baby’s belly will be quite happy.

And how about this for convenience for the busy mom – they ship directly to your door in eco-friendly insulated containers over dry ice. Food can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Love that!

Special Offer: Cradle readers will receive a 15% discount on all orders of $30 or more until the end of April.

{Get Your Coupon Code}

Their products are made with organic, natural ingredients, which is extra important when it comes to pregnancy and the sensitive immune system of a growing baby.

My personal faves?

• Lavender Sugar Scrub – It smells delicious and make my skin so soft.

• Sleepy Baby Essential Oil Blend – Mixed with their Massage Oil, it’s a lovely way to massage my baby girl before she goes to sleep.

• Booty Balm – Which isn’t solely for the buns… it can be used on chapped skin or boo-boos, too.

Also, the people behind LuSa Organics are nice as can be, so why not send a little love their way?

Tip: If you don’t mind a little nick in your products, check out their Scratch & Dent sale where you can get at least 30% off selected items. In this economy, we like that!

Special offer: Enter “cradle crush” in the comments field and LuSa Organics will add a free surprise gift with every order!

{LuSa Organics}

From the kitchen to the nursery, living ‘green’ and clean with baby has never been so simple and stylish.

See what we’re crushing on: Our ‘Green’ Crushes.

And, get check out their deal on Natural Mat mattresses: 10% off!

The adorable nature themed prints are fresh and contemporary… and we love the fact that they use only certified organic cotton and sustainable hemp in their nursery line. It’s perfect for your baby’s sensitive and developing immune system.

Now until March 15th, you’ll receive 30% off all of Amenity collections!

{Get Your Coupon Code}