Motherhood is a profound journey, often accompanied by societal pressures that push mothers toward conventional parenting methods. However, many women find that trusting their instincts leads to a more fulfilling and natural approach. In this episode of The Radiant Mission Podcast, host Rebecca Twomey welcomes Haden Johnson to explore the beauty of instinctual motherhood and the benefits of cloth diapering.
Embracing Instinctual Motherhood
Many modern parenting norms encourage early separation between mother and child, often prioritizing career and convenience over connection. Haden shares her personal experience of transitioning from a career-driven life to fully embracing the role of a stay-at-home mom. She highlights the deep joy of being present for her child’s early years and challenges the societal narrative that discourages full-time motherhood.
The Importance of Maternal Presence
Studies show that maternal presence during infancy and toddlerhood fosters emotional security and cognitive development. By choosing to remain home, mothers can nurture strong bonds with their children, offering them a sense of stability and love. Haden discusses how this decision, though countercultural, has positively shaped her parenting journey.
The Controversy of Co-Sleeping and Skin-to-Skin Contact
Co-sleeping is often debated among parents and medical professionals. While concerns about safety exist, many families find that co-sleeping enhances bonding and improves sleep quality for both mother and baby. Haden and Rebecca delve into the benefits of co-sleeping and how it aligns with instinctual motherhood.
Skin-to-Skin Contact: A Healing Tool
From birth onward, skin-to-skin contact is a powerful way to regulate a baby’s heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. It also promotes breastfeeding success and reduces stress for both mother and baby. Haden shares her experience of how this simple yet profound practice strengthened her bond with her child.
Cloth Diapering: A Sustainable Parenting Choice
Another aspect of instinctual motherhood is making informed, eco-conscious parenting choices. Cloth diapering is a sustainable alternative to disposable diapers, offering benefits such as cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and fewer chemicals on a baby’s skin.
Why Choose Cloth Diapers?
Haden shares her journey into cloth diapering and why she prefers brands like Grovia. Some key advantages of cloth diapers include:
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces landfill waste and minimizes carbon footprint.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Saves families money over time compared to disposable diapers.
- Gentler on Baby’s Skin: Free from harsh chemicals found in many disposable diapers.
- Potty Training Advantages: Cloth diapers promote earlier potty training due to increased awareness of wetness.
Elimination Communication: A Natural Approach to Potty Training
Elimination Communication (EC) is an alternative potty training method that involves responding to a baby’s natural cues for elimination. We discuss how EC can help children develop independence and awareness of their bodily functions earlier than traditional potty training methods.
Making Informed Birth and Parenting Decisions
Another critical aspect of instinctual motherhood is making informed choices regarding childbirth. Haden reflects on her home birth experience and the importance of educating oneself on various birth options. Whether choosing a home birth, birthing center, or hospital setting, mothers should feel empowered to make decisions that align with their values and instincts.
Overcoming Societal Expectations
Motherhood often comes with external pressures to conform to mainstream parenting standards. However, each family’s journey is unique. Haden and Rebecca emphasize that trusting one’s intuition leads to a more rewarding and confident approach to parenting.
Final Thoughts
Instinctual motherhood is about tuning into your natural maternal instincts and embracing choices that align with your values. Whether it’s co-sleeping, cloth diapering, or choosing to stay at home with your child, this episode of The Radiant Mission Podcast encourages mothers to challenge societal norms and trust in their own parenting journey.
Watch or Listen
In Episode 125 discover the beauty of instinctual motherhood with Haden Johnson as she shares her journey of co-sleeping, cloth diapering, and Elimination Communication (EC). Learn how trusting your instincts can lead to a more natural and fulfilling parenting experience.
Bible Verse Mentioned
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Resources Mentioned
- Instagram: @haden.lee.johnson
- TikTok: @heyyden
- Grovia Cloth Diapers: grovia.com
The Radiant Mission Resources
- Follow The Radiant Mission on Instagram
- Follow The Radiant Mission on Facebook
- Subscribe to The Radiant Mission on YouTube
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