MSI Press Blog

  This month, Julie address: Why Repetition Works: Turn Ayurvedic Self-Care Activities Into Habits Read the entire post at her website.  For more posts about self-care, click HERE . Julie is the author of two award-winning books, 108 Yoga and Self-Care Practices for Busy Mamas and How to Stay Calm in Chaos . book description: Are you too busy for self-care? From a one-minute meditation to building a routine you love to wake up to, this quick read and everyday self-care resource gives you the energy to live a mindful, more nourished life by taking good care of yourself. With Julie M. Gentile, award-winning author, yoga teacher and Millennial mom, as your guide, you'll give birth to your highest self through self-care.  Learn 108 ways to practice self-care in a modern world full of distractions, disruptions and to-do lists.   awards earned by 108 Yoga and Self-Care Practices for Busy Mamas IPPY bronze medal Book Excellence Award finalist book description Self-care is...

  Yoga is one of the safest, most beneficial, and most adaptable forms of movement during pregnancy — as long as you choose the right style and listen to your body’s cues. It supports strength, mobility, breath control, and emotional steadiness in ways few other activities can match. Here’s what yoga actually adds during pregnancy, and how to approach it trimester by trimester. Why yoga is so valuable during pregnancy 1. Strength + stability Prenatal‑appropriate yoga builds: deep core support (without straining the abdomen) hip and glute strength shoulder and back stability pelvic‑floor awareness These are the muscles that help with posture, balance, and labor endurance. 2. Flexibility without overstretching Pregnancy increases relaxin , which loosens ligaments. Yoga helps maintain mobility safely , as long as you avoid pushing into extreme ranges. 3. Breath control Breathwork (pranayama) improves: oxygenation stress regulation labor coping skills sleep quality It’s one of the mos...

  Pregnancy reshapes the body in ways that are both astonishing and unpredictable. Muscles stretch, balance shifts, energy rises and falls in waves. In the middle of all that change, movement can become one of the most stabilizing forms of self‑care— not as a performance metric, but as a way of staying connected to your own strength. Staying active during pregnancy is generally encouraged, but every pregnancy is different. A healthcare professional who knows your medical history is the best person to help you understand what’s appropriate for you. Within that boundary, there is a wide landscape of ways to move that support comfort, stamina, and emotional steadiness. Why Movement Matters During Pregnancy Circulation improves , helping reduce swelling and stiffness. Core and back muscles stay engaged , which can ease the postural strain of a growing belly. Mood stabilizes , thanks to the endorphin lift that even gentle activity can bring. Sleep quality often improves , especi...