Awakening

the first trimester

In the quiet beginnings, life stirs unseen, like a seed pressing through dark soil. The first trimester is a time of mystery and surrender, when the body whispers of change and the soul softens to receive. Within the hidden chambers of your womb, a spark of light takes root, drawing nourishment from both earth and spirit. This season invites trust — a leaning into the unseen, a faith that what is growing, though invisible, is sacred and sure.

Foundations for this Season

A gentle guide to nurturing yourself and your baby through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Vitamins

Nutrition

Rest

What to avoid during pregnancy?

Pregnancy isn’t about restriction—it’s about creating the safest, most nourishing space for you and your baby. Think of these “avoids” as acts of love, protecting your little one while you focus on what you can enjoy: wholesome foods, gentle movement, rest, and meaningful connection.

    • Alcohol → No safe amount; can harm baby’s brain and development.

    • Raw or Undercooked Meat, Fish, and Eggs → Risk of bacteria or parasites.

    • High-Mercury Fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish) → Mercury can harm baby’s brain and nervous system.

    • Unpasteurized Dairy & Juices → Can carry listeria or other harmful bacteria.

    • Deli Meats & Hot Dogs (unless steaming hot) → Risk of listeria contamination.

    • Raw Sprouts (alfalfa, mung, clover) → Easily harbor bacteria.

    • Too Much Caffeine → Limit to ~200 mg/day (≈1 cup of coffee).

    • Certain Herbal Teas (like licorice root, pennyroyal, or sage) → May not be safe; check herbs individually.

    • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen unless prescribed) → Can cause complications.

    • Some prescription drugs (always check with provider before continuing any).

    • Smoking & Recreational Drugs → Strongly linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and complications.

    • Retinol/Retinoids (Vitamin A creams, Accutane) → Can cause birth defects.

    • High-dose Salicylic Acid (oral or concentrated peels) → Unsafe; small topical use is usually okay.

    • Formaldehyde-based nail products / hair treatments → Avoid fumes and chemical exposure.

    • Unregulated essential oils → Some oils (clary sage, pennyroyal) can trigger contractions or be unsafe.

    • Hot Tubs, Saunas, Very Hot Baths → High body temps can increase risk of neural tube defects in early pregnancy.

    • Heavy Lifting or High-Impact Activities → Avoid straining or sports with high fall risk (skiing, horseback riding, contact sports).

    • Certain Cleaning Chemicals & Paint Fumes → Limit exposure; opt for natural cleaners or ensure good ventilation.

    • Cat Litter → Risk of toxoplasmosis; have someone else handle it if possible.