Hello Pregnancy, Birth & Newborn Community- Personal Story ALERT!!!

I have this amazing jar of organic castor oil sitting in my cupboard upstairs conveniently in my linen cupboard. All I need to do is grab the fleece material that I bought. Get things warmed up and lie down and rest. 

Do you think maybe I could do it for 10 minutes 15 minutes? 

Well, it was something that Prairie suggested I started doing in my very first somatic healing session with her. Have I done this practice ? No. How much resistance do you find yourself putting between you and healing? How much resistance and excuses do you put between yourself and things that you say you really really want? But we all know it’s the actionable things that we do that inform us that it truly is something that we want to have or to do or to be. So today I’m going to check this box. It’s going to count as an item of productivity.

More to read on CASTOR OIL PACKS below…..

& COMMUNITY CONNECT SCHOLARSHIP

What you need:

1. **Castor Oil:** This is the main ingredient. You can find it at health food stores or order it online.

2. **Flannel Cloth or Towel:** Choose a clean and preferably organic fabric. It should be large enough to cover the area you want to treat.

3. **Plastic Wrap or Plastic Bag:** To cover the castor oil-soaked cloth and prevent oil from getting on your clothing or bedding.

4. **Hot Water Bottle or Heating Pad:** This is used to apply heat to the pack, which helps the castor oil penetrate the skin.

5. **Baking Soda:** For cleaning your skin after using the pack. You can mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water to create a cleansing solution.

6. **Old Clothing or Towel:** To protect your clothing and bedding from potential oil stains while using the pack.

7. **Ziplock Bag or Container:** For storing the castor oil-soaked cloth in the refrigerator between uses.

Castor oil packs can be a real game-changer during pregnancy and postpartum, here’s why:

**During Pregnancy:**

1. **Pain Relief:** Many moms-to-be experience backaches and muscle discomfort during pregnancy. Applying a castor oil pack to the affected area can provide relief and relaxation.

2. **Digestive Aid:** Constipation is a common pregnancy woe. Massaging a castor oil pack on your abdomen can help promote bowel movements, naturally easing the discomfort.

3. **Reduces Inflammation:** Castor oil packs have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for reducing swelling and inflammation often associated with pregnancy.

**Postpartum:**

1. **Uterine Recovery:** After giving birth, your uterus needs time to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. Castor oil packs applied to the lower abdomen can assist in this process and potentially reduce postpartum bleeding.

2. **Scar Healing:** If you’ve had a cesarean section or episiotomy, castor oil packs may aid in scar healing and minimizing discomfort.

3. **Stress Relief:** Caring for a newborn can be exhausting. Using castor oil packs as part of your self-care routine can provide relaxation and stress relief.

Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider before using castor oil packs during pregnancy or postpartum, as individual circumstances can vary. But when used safely and appropriately, they can be a soothing and natural way to support your journey into motherhood. 🌿💆‍♀️🤰

Nostalgia is a powerful emotional state characterized by a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past. It is a complex mix of positive emotions, often accompanied by feelings of warmth, happiness, and sometimes a hint of sadness. Nostalgia can be triggered by a wide range of stimuli, including old photographs, vintage objects, familiar scents, music, or any reminder of moments, experiences, or people from our past. Photography and films have the unique ability to evoke nostalgia and bring humans so much joy due to several key reasons:

1. Capturing Memories: Photography and films freeze a moment in time, preserving memories that might otherwise fade or become distorted with the passage of time. Looking at old photographs or watching home videos allows us to relive those precious moments, bringing back the feelings and emotions associated with them.
2. Emotional Connection: Images and films have the power to stir deep emotions within us. Whether it’s a family portrait, a candid shot of friends, or a video of a special event, these visual representations of our past can trigger a sense of connectedness to the people and experiences captured within them.
3. Time Travel: Nostalgic photographs and films act as a time machine, transporting us back to a different era. They provide a glimpse into the way things were, allowing us to better understand and appreciate our personal history and the history of those who came before us.
4. Sense of Identity: Our memories play a significant role in shaping our sense of identity. Looking at photographs and films from our past reinforces our understanding of who we are, where we come from, and the experiences that have shaped us.
5. Gratitude and Happiness: Nostalgia often brings forth positive recollections, reminding us of the good times and the people we cherish. This sense of gratitude for the happy moments in our lives can lead to increased levels of happiness and well-being.
6. Connection to Loved Ones: Photography and films provide a way to remember and honor loved ones who may no longer be with us. They serve as a tangible link to the past, helping us keep the memories of our dear ones alive and close to our hearts.
7. Creative Expression: Both photography and filmmaking are artistic forms of expression that allow individuals to capture the world from their unique perspectives. The joy experienced in creating and appreciating visual art contributes to the emotional impact of these mediums.
8. Sharing and Storytelling: Photographs and films are meant to be shared. When we share these captured moments with others, we not only deepen our connections but also create shared narratives and experiences that further enhance the joy of nostalgia.

In summary, photography and films serve as powerful vehicles for nostalgia, enabling us to revisit cherished memories, connect with our past, and find joy in the beauty of life’s journey. They have the remarkable ability to touch our hearts and remind us of the richness and significance of the moments that make up our lives.

In summary, photography and films serve as powerful vehicles for nostalgia, enabling us to revisit cherished memories, connect with our past, and find joy in the beauty of life’s journey. They have the remarkable ability to touch our hearts and remind us of the richness and significance of the moments that make up our lives.

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YOU DON’T ALWAYS NEED TO DO MORE MAMA!

THIS INCLUDES ME

What if Newborn and Birth Photography the way I serve is enough?

Every once in awhile, I will allow my volume to inform me that maybe my services in Missoula area newborn and birth story photography are basic or lacking in some way- this imposter voice creeping in. My knee jerk reaction is to try and make myself believe that I need to work harder and more creatively. Burning myself out to create something..so epic, a new look, a new offer, a new set/scene, location.

I have arrived at a practice that has helped over the recent years. GO BACK TO THE PORTFOLIO. The portfolio speaks. The images show me that there is beauty and depth and endless emotive feelings….that are unique to each session- each human I co-create with.

You mama are enough. In the way you are showing up in the world. In the way you practice becoming you!

Here are some tips to prepare for your Newborn and birth photography in Missoula.

Your Birth tip is to hire a Birth photographer. Consult with me today. Consultations are free and I love to geek out all things birth.

Preparing for a newborn photography session can help ensure that the photos turn out beautifully and that both you and your baby have a positive experience. Here are three tips to help you prepare:

1. Schedule the session within the first two weeks: Newborns change very quickly, so it’s best to schedule the photography session within the first two weeks of life when they are still very sleepy and can be easily posed. This will also help capture those adorable curled-up poses that are so popular in newborn photography.
2. Keep your baby well-fed and well-rested: A well-fed and well-rested baby is much more likely to be calm and cooperative during the photography session. Be sure to feed your baby right before the session and try to keep them awake for an hour or so beforehand to help them sleep soundly during the shoot.
3. Dress your baby in simple, comfortable clothing: Newborns are best photographed in simple, neutral clothing that won’t distract from their natural beauty. Avoid dressing your baby in busy patterns or outfits that are too tight or uncomfortable. A simple onesie or swaddle blanket is often the best choice.

Bonus tip: Work with an experienced newborn photographer who has plenty of experience working with babies and knows how to keep them safe and comfortable during the shoot. This will help ensure that you get beautiful photos while keeping your baby happy and secure.

Experienced birth photographer in Missoula

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Birthing with midwives at a hospital can provide several benefits for expecting mothers and their babies.

I am honored to be able to witness Missoula mamas birth in all spaces they so choose.

Birth Photography at ROOTS Birth & Women’s Health Missoula is welcomed. The midwives are a great team to work alongside. https://rootsmt.com/

To witness mama’s being able to make informed choices about how they labor and birth is rewarding, empowering and liberating. The image above is testimony that you CAN stand during labor. There are so many options- make sure you openly and honestly talk with you provider about your desires for your birth. Your body, your birth.

There are many benefits to choosing our local ROOTS in hospital midwives- here are a few:

1. Access to medical resources: Midwives who work in hospitals have access to medical resources, such as doctors, nurses, and medical equipment, in case any complications arise during the birth. This can provide a sense of security for women who want to deliver their babies with midwives, but also want the assurance that medical help is readily available if needed.
2. Personalized care: Midwives provide personalized care to expectant mothers, including continuous support throughout the labor and delivery process. They can help women with pain management techniques, such as breathing exercises and massage, and provide emotional support throughout the birth. Additionally, midwives often encourage natural birthing methods and can help women achieve the type of birth experience they desire.
3. Lower rates of interventions: Studies have shown that women who birth with midwives at hospitals have lower rates of interventions, such as cesarean sections and episiotomies, compared to women who deliver with physicians. This is because midwives are trained to support natural birthing methods and work to minimize medical interventions unless they are medically necessary. This can result in a more positive birth experience for women and better outcomes for both mother and baby.

Empowered Birth Plan | Missoula Montana Birth Photography

An empowered birth is one in which the birthing person feels in control and supported throughout the process. A birth plan can help clarify the birthing person’s preferences and desires for the birth experience. Here are some suggestions for types of empowered birth plans applicable to Missoula Montana and environments that can support an empowered birth:

Hospital birth with a midwife: Many hospitals offer midwifery services, which can provide a more personalized and supportive approach to birth. Midwives are often more open to using non-medical interventions and supporting natural birth. Check out ROOTS for an amazing, empowered birth experience.

Want an example of an epic empowered birth via ROOTS? Open your mind and emotions to this image.

Home birth with a midwife: For those who desire a more intimate and familiar environment, a home birth with a midwife can be a good option. This can provide a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, with the added benefit of being in one’s own home.

Birth center: Birth centers offer a more homelike environment than hospitals, with midwifery care and the option for natural birth. They often have amenities such as birthing pools and comfortable furniture to support the birthing person.

I have seen some badass empowered women give birth here! The Birth Center and Women’s Health Clinic.

Don’t overlook one of my favorite images of all time– the HEADER FOR THE BIRTH CENTER—-IMAGE TAKEN BY – Jenna Nord Photography!! Rad.

Water birth: Giving birth in a pool of warm water can provide relaxation and pain relief during labor. Many birth centers and hospitals offer this option.

Hypnobirthing: Hypnobirthing is a technique that uses relaxation and visualization to reduce fear and pain during birth. It can be done in any environment and can be incorporated into any birth plan.

Doula support: Having a doula present during labor can provide emotional and physical support to the birthing person and their partner. Doulas can also act as advocates and help the birthing person communicate their needs and desires to medical staff.

Personalized birth plan: A personalized birth plan can outline the birthing person’s specific desires and preferences for their birth experience. This can include preferences for pain management, interventions, and the overall atmosphere and environment.

Overall, the most important aspect of an empowered birth is that the birthing person feels supported and in control throughout the process. By exploring different types of birth plans and environments, the birthing person can find the options that are best suited to their needs and desires.

If you chose a repeat c-section,you’re welcome here.

Ifyou chose a VBAC,you’re welcome here.

If you chose to “see how it goes,” trust your doctor and walk into labor without a birth plan,
you’re welcome here.

Sometimes you see birth photographers celebrating VBAC or homebirth by saying something
like “She did it! She got her VBAC!”

But because we’re celebrating with that mama doesn’t mean we’re not also celebrating your
choice to choose a different path!

All birth plans are welcome here 🙂 Even the non-birth plans!

What’s your idea of an empowered birth? I’d love to hear
from you!

WANT TO DOCUMENT YOUR EMPOWERED BIRTH?

Artistically documenting your transformational life event, so that you can

SEE & REMEMBER

Your birth, your power, your baby’s journey earthside.

I’ve had the conversation with my husband-

What do you want for your future within music and teaching and the answer comes the same way each time- he wants to be involved in performance art in some fashion. My husband has been in a number of bands over the years, this is the side gig he speaks of that adds that element of fulfillment to his career as a musician and music teacher in Missoula.

I get it. Like being on stage performing, I have a deep desire to show and sell my art! It has been slowly burning away at me for the last two years. What is the block? Why hasn’t it happened? Well first off, finding the venue to display my art is the first block. I am looking for a highly trafficked storefront/gallery that will proudly display my art- which involves nudity- oh my gosh- yes that’s right, nudity. I guess that’s really it folks. I need space to hang. Online is available of course, but I think there’s nothing like seeing the piece up close and personal. So I will continue my quest for the brave, gritty, forward thinking, modern establishment to host me.

Stay tuned!

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Art is sweet, bitter, makes me salivate and upon the last angle/edit, I am always wanting more. Thus somewhat equivalent to cake. I love a good dense, rich chocolate cake. I love a nourishing, nurturing motherhood session too- same kind of bliss.

Here is my last favorite chocolate cake recipe. https://www.mybakingaddiction.com/the-best-chocolate-cake/#_a5y_p=4482307

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DETAILS

Spring Mini Sessions 2022

Hosting 2 days of Spring Mini Nurturing Sessions!
Don’t delay, Mini sessions usually book out & the sessions are highly discounted.
Two dates- June 10 & June 18
June 10= In Studio only ( 4 sessions available )
June 18= In Studio only | 2100 S Higgins ( 6 sessions available )
20 minute session.
Studio session, groups limited to =max 3 people ( 4, if one is an infant )
Includes 15 digital files curated by photographer.

. Referral reward? If you refer a friend to inquire about the Mini Session, they book= you and your friend will receive $50 in store credit.
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Cancellation- In the event that less than half the days slots book, Jenna Nord Photography reserves the right to cancel the event. You will be refunded your investment.

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Savage Daughter

Sarah Hester RossI am my mother’s savage daughter
The one who runs barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
I am my mother’s savage daughter
I will not cut my hair
I will not lower my voiceMy mother’s child is a savage
She looks for her omens in the colors of stones
In the faces of cats, in the falling of feathers
In the dancing of fire
In the curve of old bonesI am my mother’s savage daughter
The one who runs barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
I am my mother’s savage daughter
I will not cut my hair
I will not lower my voiceMy mother’s child dances in darkness
She sings heathen songs
By the light of the moon
And watches the stars and renames the planets
And dreams she can reach them
With a song and a broomI am my mother’s savage daughter
The one who runs barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
I am my mother’s savage daughter
I will not cut my hair
I will not lower my voiceWe are all brought forth out of darkness
Into this world, through blood and through pain
And deep in our bones, the old songs are waking
So sing them with voices if thunder and rainWe are our mother’s savage daughters
The ones who run barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
We are our mother’s savage daughters
We will not cut our hair
We will not lower our voiceWe are our mother’s savage daughters
The ones who run barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
We are our mother’s savage daughters
We will not cut our hair
We will not lower our voiceWe are our mother’s savage daughters
The ones who run barefoot
Cursing sharp stones
We are our mother’s savage daughters
We will not cut our hair
We will not lower our voice

the REVEAL is coming soon, it’s been in existence just not at this level. we are leveling up – to a retreat experience. Nourish your self, reveal your story – so you can fill the cups of those you work with, those you love, your community. choose to receive the gift. a deep dive experience, a quest for self intimacy, guided practice of reflection, climaxing with your physiological expression photographed- for personal and brand pleasure!

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Mother’s you belong here. We do this, we can do this, if we choose; together. Even if you are physically alone you have the collective shoulders and hips of all the women of the world and those that have come before you- in birth!!!
International Day of the Midwife.

Here is my story about Brenda-
Brenda opened her doors and arms to me. She cared, she listened, she supported me. I lucked out- it was timing- most likely- but I was one of the first of inner circle people to hear that the midwifery unit was being closed down/ this was a “perfect” time for Brenda to retire. I actually cried. I visited her at her office and she too had tears in her eyes. It was a crazy feeling. But I was grieving the loss of her connection and the loss for Missoula- less options, based on the bottom line.

Here is my most beautiful story of Brenda:

I witnessed Brenda support birth in the most tender way- the most tender that I had seen up to that point in my career as a Birth Photographer.
Not only was Brenda present, throughout the birth, she was hands on. She used oils and massage stones on our mutual client. Brenda caressed. Brenda checked in closely- close in proximity, looking deeply into mama’s face.
What blew my mind was Brenda climbed into the hospital bed with her birthing mama client and comforted her, snuggled her, held her. I drew my breath in as I witnessed this. I would never be the same. I am so honored to have seen such beauty that day between provider and patient, between women.

What are your favorite midwifery moments? Please share and with permission I would like to share on my IG stories.

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This is the place where in front of me, you are most wanted. I want to see your beautiful nurturing. Breast, bottle, skin to skin. All is welcomed. Gather with 8 vibrant women. Celebrate your journey. Shed before me and create intimate space with others to create memorable, empowered art.

You are invited to adorn yourself with Donkey Girl Design wardrobe.

Prints will be ready by Dec 23.

Give yourself and your babe a gift!

Pay via payment button below.

Or save $5 and pay via Venmo–

Here’s the link to my Venmo profile. Tap or click it, and be sure you’re finding my true self.

https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2410611984039936758

What if we didn’t caption art? What if how you felt about it had nothing to do with how well I can write, or find a quote on pinterest and copy it? What if the art itself had to speak to you, you interpreted the art and let it move you, how it should? What if it wasn’t about engaging community and rather engaging an eye, or a visceral reaction? What if you liked/loved something you had to prove it yourself in words…words were mandatory of the viewer in order to pass judgement? What would you say? Would you take the time, to stop and write about that love, write to the artist from you heart – how the art made you feel? Could you explain back to the artist that you loved their work because of their use of lighting, composition etc. ? How lofty would our followings be then?

I would hope we all know by now that birth looks different everywhere, minute to minute, woman to woman. I SEE you.  I am no stranger to birth- hospital birth, cesarean, twin birth in the OR, home birth, water birth, etc. But I do not know your story and as much as your prepare you don’t know your story either. Birth is unpredictable. Birth is a visceral story, a love story, a story of courage and commitment, of sacrifice. Birth is beautiful and fierce and it will unfold within in you and in front of me and that story will be a masterpiece in all it’s details, all the rawness and magic. Birth is transformative, no one has been able to argue that point.

I can’t wait to see you. SEE your story, this one you have been waiting for.

Serving Missoula and surrounding areas- Butte, Anaconda, Bitterroot Valley.

Mothering in Skin. Missoula MT, mama!

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NOW

My why is rooted in this very personal story.

It has also flourished into more. I continue to offer birth photography to women, partners, families- as a means to heal by, celebrate birth, validate the journey, stamp and preserve what transforms us. How many things in your lifetime can you say truly transformed you? Birth does this, whether you are willing, ready, scared, brave, planned out -or not. I am here to document and hand back to you this gift!

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This was written in 2011.

My first two cesarean births were unplanned.  I did not have a birth plan that specifically addressed my desires.   I felt so blessed to have my babies and have them healthy, however  their final journey into this world was sad to me.   Words that come to mind when I think of the births are: vacant, scary, white, distant, alone, wondering.  While I was in the recovery room I wondered what my baby looked like, smelled like, felt like.  I wondered what the nurses and doctors were doing with my newborn child?  I wondered why everything was taking so long?  Yes, I got to see my baby’s little faces before they were taken away, but they change so fast.  And you don’t understand this unless you see your baby, and then don’t again until 3 hours later and you can tell your baby already looks truly different.  I was not able to see the umbilical cord cut, nor the first bath.  I wasn’t able to hold my baby until hours later, this was anguishing.

In contrast, my third and then fourth cesarean were the most gratifying to me.  I had a very demanding birth plan, but not one that was outside the means of the nursing staff.  My last two babies never left my sight, they stayed with me while I recovered and then both baby and I traveled back to my room where family awaited.  The first bath was done in my room where I could watch as were the other newborn exams.

The fourth cesarean is highlighted in my mind because I had immediate and continual contact with my baby as well as snapshots taken of the birth.  I also was lucky enough to have my sister in the operating room with me as Charge Nurse that morning.  Since she was going to be there, I asked her to take pictures.  She was able to capture my tearful expressions as my baby was being brought into the world, my husband holding my hand, my husband feeling nauseous, the cutting of the cord by my husband, my babies first wild cries, little toes, and fingers in the warming bed.  All these awesome sights that I couldn’t myself witness because of course I was on the operating table.

Pictures of me on the operating table holding my little pink cheeked bundle amidst a variety of thick, cold, and intrusive cords speaks so loudly to me.  I look at these pictures and see how brave I am, how amazing my doctor is, how strong and vulnerable my husband is, how me and my baby are a glowing contrast to all around us.  These pictures serve as my inspiration to offer other women the same opportunity to create lasting memories of a truly blessed event.