Holistic Health and Healing: Empowering Women in the Postpartum Journey with Dr. Lauren Davis

Shalom, friends! Mayim here, and today I am thrilled to share an inspiring conversation with Dr. Lauren Davis, an osteopathic physician, lactation expert, and advocate for holistic health. As a homeschooling, homebirthing mama who deeply believes in empowering mothers through holistic practices, Dr. Lauren’s work aligns beautifully with the values we hold at Arukah.

Watch our full interview in the video above or at: https://youtu.be/5Eyq_uwnvLc

I want to dive into a few essential topics that Dr. Lauren and I discussed, including the powerful role of holistic healing in the postpartum period, how to manage stress naturally, and how moms can regain balance in their bodies, minds, and spirits after giving birth.

Understanding Osteopathic Medicine: A Holistic Approach to Healing

One of the most common questions people have is, "What is osteopathic medicine, and how is it different from other medical practices like chiropractic care or conventional medicine?" Dr. Lauren offers an insightful explanation:

Osteopathic medicine, founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 1800s, is based on the principles that the body is capable of self-healing and self-regulation, and that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected. It extends beyond the focus on spinal alignment in chiropractic care, addressing the overall body mechanics and how different parts of the body work together.

Unlike traditional medicine, which often looks at the body in parts, osteopathic medicine takes a more integrated approach to health, emphasizing whole-body wellness. It includes hands-on techniques to address dysfunctions in the body and promote healing, which is why osteopaths, like Dr. Lauren, can provide such a valuable, holistic alternative to traditional medical practices.

Navigating Postnatal Depletion: Restoring Balance After Birth

One of the key topics we touched on was postnatal depletion, a term coined by Dr. Oscar Saralak. Dr. Lauren explains that postpartum depletion isn't just about physical exhaustion; it's a deeper imbalance that affects not only the body but also the mind and spirit.

Postnatal depletion is primarily caused by nutrient deficiencies, especially protein and micronutrients like magnesium, iron, and vitamin D. Dr. Lauren highlights that many women experience a hormonal imbalance after giving birth, which contributes to mood swings, anxiety, and physical fatigue. This is compounded by poor diet, particularly the over-consumption of refined sugars and processed foods, which deplete the body of essential vitamins and minerals.

To support the body’s recovery, Dr. Lauren recommends focusing on whole foods, especially those that are high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as leafy greens, organ meats, and bone broth. She emphasizes the importance of addressing nutrient deficiencies through diet before relying on supplements. By eating locally grown and flash-frozen vegetables, new mothers can ensure they’re getting the most nutrients from their food to help them replenish their bodies.

Healing from the Inside Out: Balancing Hormones Naturally

Another critical aspect of the postpartum journey is balancing hormones. After childbirth, women experience a dramatic drop in estrogen levels, which can trigger mood swings, anxiety, and even depression. Dr. Lauren suggests that getting enough healthy fats in the diet is crucial to support hormone production. She recommends incorporating avocados, olive oil, and grass-fed butter to help the body produce the necessary hormones to restore balance.

Additionally, stress management plays a pivotal role in postpartum healing. Dr. Lauren introduces a technique called color breathing—a form of mindfulness where you breathe in a color that represents peace and calm, allowing it to fill your body and dissipate anxiety. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that helps reset the nervous system and can be practiced by anyone, even children, to manage stress.

The Role of Spirituality in Postpartum Healing

As someone who believes deeply in the connection between mind, body, and spirit, Dr. Lauren emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being during the postpartum period. She believes that when a mother’s energy is depleted, she can feel disconnected from her sense of purpose and power, making it difficult to fully care for herself and her child.

Dr. Lauren encourages new moms to connect with their inner selves through positive mindset practices and spiritual reflection. Whether through meditation, journaling, or simply finding time for personal prayer or reflection, nurturing the spirit is just as important as nourishing the body.

Becoming a Holistic Healer: Your Path to Empowerment

I’m so inspired by Dr. Lauren’s holistic approach to health and healing. Her dedication to empowering women through knowledge, nutrition, and spiritual practices is truly transformative. If you are someone who feels called to make a positive impact in the world by helping others through a holistic approach, just like Dr. Lauren, you can start your journey today.

At Arukah, we are passionate about empowering individuals to become holistic healers. If you’re ready to learn how to help others heal naturally and build a thriving business while living in alignment with your values, consider joining our Holistic Healer Certification Program. We provide in-depth training in naturopathic herbalism, holistic life coaching, and online business & marketing, so you can make a real difference in the world while achieving financial freedom and location independence.

Start your healing journey today, just like Dr. Lauren, and learn how you can become a holistic healer. Let's work together to bring holistic healing into the world! Whether you're a new mom or someone who is simply passionate about natural healing, remember that your wellness journey begins with the right knowledge and tools. Take that first step today!