Category: articles

Why healing yourself—and your baby or children—is so important

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

I have seen through my own experience just how important healing yourself can be.

For me, my healing journey began when I came to London. Being away from the social restrictions and expectations I had grown up with gave me the space to expand my mind and, perhaps most importantly, to allow myself to be truly me.

This is not about blaming anyone. Not society, not religion, not our families, and not the people who may have influenced us along the way. We are all shaped by our experiences, our upbringing, our environment and the people around us.

For me, healing has been about recognising what was never mine to carry.

It has been about looking at the experiences that shaped me, understanding the things I didn’t want to carry forward, and gently releasing what no longer served me.

Healing is a journey. It can be slow, fast, or somewhere in between. There is no right way to do it.

For me, it has been worth every penny.

I have spent thousands of pounds investing in my health because I knew that taking care of myself would help me become the person I was meant to be. Every course I took, every treatment I experienced, every step I took deeper into myself was about understanding the roots of my struggles—and, at the same time, discovering more of myself.

And I loved the journey.

The challenging parts.
The beautiful parts.
The moments when I understood something new.
And even the moments when I felt completely lost.

Every challenge felt like another step towards opening the door of the cage I had once believed I had to live inside.

And this is why I believe we should not underestimate the importance of the beginning of our journey—especially birth.

Whether it is your own birth story or the birth of your baby, our earliest experiences can be deeply meaningful. Giving ourselves the opportunity to understand and process difficult experiences can be an important part of healing.

And when we heal ourselves, we can also become more conscious of what we pass on to our children.

We don’t have to be perfect parents. We don’t have to have everything figured out.

But we can become more aware.

We can pause.
We can reflect.
We can choose differently.
We can give our children the space to be themselves.

There is more and more research, writing and discussion around birth trauma, attachment, nervous-system regulation and the ways our early experiences can shape us. We are learning more about ourselves all the time.

The pandemic, too, gave many of us an unexpected opportunity to look inward—to question what we wanted, what we didn’t want, what mattered to us and what we wanted to change.

Even though we had such divided opinions about what to do and what not to do, in many ways we were all experiencing uncertainty, fear, change—and, for some, an opportunity to begin healing.

So, if you are at the beginning of your journey, take your time.

You don’t have to rush.

You don’t have to heal everything at once.

Start where you are.

Look after yourself.

Give yourself permission to explore who you really are beyond the expectations that were placed upon you.

You are worth the journey.
And your healing matters.

Birth Trauma, Babies & Craniosacral Therapy

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

Supporting your baby after a challenging birth

Birth is a profound experience for both baby and mother. While many babies settle naturally after birth, some can appear particularly unsettled, sensitive or difficult to soothe.

A baby’s birth may involve interventions such as a C-section, ventouse, forceps, induction or premature delivery. Sometimes a very fast or difficult birth, or a stressful pregnancy or birth experience for the mother, can leave a family feeling that their baby has had a lot to process.

When a baby is frequently crying, struggling to settle, having difficulties feeding or sleeping, or simply seems uncomfortable, parents can understandably feel worried and exhausted.

What might you notice?

Every baby is different. Some babies settle within the first few weeks, while others may continue to need extra support.

Parents sometimes seek help when their baby experiences:

  • prolonged or frequent crying
  • difficulty settling or sleeping
  • feeding or latching difficulties
  • colic-like symptoms
  • reflux or digestive discomfort
  • mild torticollis or tension
  • difficulty relaxing, even when being held
  • sensitivity to stimulation
  • unsettled behaviour following a difficult or complicated birth

There can be many possible reasons for these experiences, and it is important to consider your baby’s individual needs rather than assuming that one explanation fits every baby.

Gentle support for babies

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, light-touch approach that aims to support relaxation and wellbeing.

In my work with babies, I create a calm and safe environment where your baby can be held, supported and listened to at their own pace. Sessions are gentle and responsive to the baby’s cues, with the aim of helping them feel more comfortable and settled.

Some parents choose CST following a particularly challenging birth, while others come because their baby is unsettled, tense or having difficulties with feeding or sleep.

I see each baby as an individual, and I work with the baby and parents together rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Supporting mother as well as baby

The birth experience can have a profound emotional impact on mothers too.

Whether this is your first baby or your second, third or fifth, every birth is different. You may have experienced fear, anxiety, unexpected intervention, a difficult recovery or simply a birth that did not happen in the way you had hoped.

Supporting the mother is therefore an important part of my approach. Creating space for you to feel heard, cared for and supported can be just as valuable as supporting your baby.

A compassionate, individual approach

My work brings together my experience with babies, children and adults with my continuing interest in the relationship between science, early-life experiences, the body and wellbeing.

I work from a place of:

Compassion · Curiosity · Intuition · Science · Respect for the individual · The wisdom of the body

Some babies may need only a small amount of support, while others may benefit from several sessions. Every baby and family is different, so I will always work at your baby’s pace and discuss with you what may be appropriate.

CST is complementary care and should not replace assessment or treatment from your GP, health visitor, midwife, paediatrician, lactation consultant or other appropriately qualified healthcare professional where this is needed.

About Maria

I have worked with thousands of clients, including hundreds of babies and children, and continue to develop my knowledge and understanding of the connection between early-life experiences, the body and wellbeing.

My intention is to offer babies and their parents a calm, compassionate space where they can feel supported, respected and listened to.

Appointments

In person

Life by Margot
North London
N15 6HA

Community clinic

Crouch End Horsey Vale community clinic click here to read more

Home visits

Home visits are available for mothers and babies, where appropriate.

Online appointments

Online appointments are also available for mothers and parents who would like support from home.

Workshops

I also offer occasional baby workshops at Life by Margot throughout the year. Next one 11.10.26 click here to read more

Get in touch

If your baby has had a challenging birth or you are simply feeling that something is not quite right, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss whether my approach may be suitable for you and your baby.

email me to: esposito_m@yahoo.co.uk

Healing from the Heart

Annotated diagram of appendix anatomy, intestines, cecum, and ileocecal valve

Did you know these facts about your appendix?

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

What is the appendix?

And why it is more important than you think, like every single part of our body, is there for a reason.

In the past, the appendix, was considered useless and at times it was taken out for no reason, even without being inflamed, the newest research show that the appendix has a bigger role in the human body as usual. Here are some of the explanation of it:

  • The appendix is a small, narrow, tube-like pouch attached to the beginning of the large intestine (the cecum).
  • In humans, it is usually about 6–10 cm long.
  • It contains a lot of lymphoid tissue, which is involved in the immune system.

2. What is the appendix for?

The text explains that the appendix is not simply a useless organ. It may have two important roles:

  • Immune function: The lymphoid tissue in the appendix may help support the body’s immune response and protect against harmful organisms.
  • “Safe house” for good bacteria: The appendix contains beneficial bacteria in biofilms. Because it is a narrow, protected pouch, these bacteria can survive illnesses such as diarrhoea and later help repopulate the gut with healthy bacteria.

3. What is appendicitis?

  • Appendicitis means inflammation of the appendix.
  • It commonly happens when the appendix becomes blocked, for example by a hardened piece of stool (fecalith), a foreign body, or a tumour.
  • The blockage can increase pressure, reduce blood supply, cause tissue damage, and allow bacteria to multiply.
  • If untreated, the appendix can rupture, which can cause peritonitis or sepsis.

4. Symptoms of appendicitis

Typical symptoms include:

  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort/pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Pain may initially be dull and difficult to locate.
  • As inflammation increases, the pain can become sharp and more focused, often in the lower-right side of the abdomen.

Unless you do have appendicitis, do consider the benefit of this little part of your intestine and how great it is.

Reference:

A review of the function and evolution of the cecal appendix

Heather F. Smith, First published: 01 April 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.24917Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

What Does Health Mean?

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

Health can mean something different to everyone.

For some people, health means being able to take a few steps each day, go shopping independently, or manage everyday activities with greater ease. For a younger person, it may mean having enough energy to cope with the demands and expectations of modern life. For others, it may mean being able to walk for miles without pain, feel comfortable in their body, and connect with the people around them.

Health is not only about the physical body. Mental and emotional wellbeing are also important parts of our overall health.

I believe that understanding ourselves, recognising our needs, and reconnecting with our own inner resources can be an important part of moving forward. Sometimes we carry old experiences, emotions, stress, or patterns that can leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed.

Through my therapies, I aim to support you in exploring these patterns and developing a greater awareness of yourself and your body. Depending on your individual needs, this may include somato-emotional work, craniosacral therapy, healing, NLP, or nutritional support.

Somato-Emotional Release

Somato-emotional work explores the relationship between the body, emotions, and past experiences. Some people feel that unresolved experiences can continue to influence how they feel in their body and in their everyday life.

Every person is different. Some people may find that one session is helpful, while others benefit from several sessions. There is no fixed timetable, because your experience and needs are unique.

With more than 35 years of experience in holistic therapies, working with babies, children, and adults, I have seen how powerful gentle, individualised support can be.

If you have a medical condition, your GP or other appropriate healthcare professional should always be your first point of contact for diagnosis, testing, and medical treatment. Complementary therapies can be considered alongside appropriate medical care, rather than as a replacement for it.

Where appropriate, additional nutritional investigations may also be available at an extra cost.

Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle approach that encourages relaxation, body awareness, and a sense of connection with yourself.

One of the things that continues to amaze me is seeing people become more aware of what is happening within themselves. Some clients describe feeling calmer, more settled, or more connected after a session.

My intention is to create a safe and supportive space where your body and mind can slow down, allowing you to notice what you may need.

Babies and Children

Babies often respond beautifully to gentle therapeutic work.

Every baby has their own story, temperament, experiences, and way of communicating. During a session, a baby may become very quiet and relaxed, or they may cry, move, or express themselves in other ways.

Crying does not necessarily mean that something is wrong or that a parent has done anything wrong. Crying is one of the main ways babies communicate. They may be tired, uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or simply expressing what they are experiencing in that moment.

For parents, it can be reassuring to know that they do not need to interpret every cry as a sign that they have done something wrong.

A baby session is gentle, but that does not mean it is insignificant. Parents may notice changes afterwards, such as their baby appearing more settled, moving more comfortably, or sleeping differently. Every baby responds differently, and there can be no guarantee of a particular outcome.

The most important thing is to listen to the individual baby and respect their needs throughout the session.

Every Person Has Their Own Story

Whether I am working with a baby, child, or adult, every session is different.

There is no single approach that works for everyone. My role is to listen, observe, support, and work with you as an individual.

For me, holistic therapy is about creating space for greater awareness, relaxation, and connection — helping you understand yourself better and supporting you as you move forward in your own way.

Your health is your journey, and your story is unique.

Listening to the Body: Go within to heal yourself!

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

As I work gently with the whole person—physical, emotional, and, when appropriate, spiritual—I often become aware of different sensations through my hands and intuitive awareness. Sometimes I notice areas that feel warm, tense, dense, or resistant, particularly around the head, neck, and body.

Over many years of practice, I have observed that these sensations can sometimes reflect areas where a person has been holding physical tension or experiencing emotional stress. While these are my clinical and intuitive observations, they should not be interpreted as medical diagnosis.

I believe that the body often communicates before the conscious mind fully understands what it is carrying. During a session, we gently create space for awareness, allowing the person to notice thoughts, feelings, or life experiences that may be connected to what they are experiencing physically. This process is always guided with kindness, compassion, and without judgement.

My role is not to force change, but to support the body’s own natural capacity for balance and self-regulation. As the nervous system relaxes and the body begins to soften, many people describe feeling lighter, calmer, more flexible, and more connected to themselves. Often these positive changes continue to unfold naturally in the days and weeks following a session.

At times, I may experience warmth through my hands. Within my holistic practice, I sometimes interpret this as an indication that a person may be carrying strong emotions such as frustration, sadness, grief, or emotional intensity. This interpretation comes from my experience as a therapist and from traditional holistic perspectives, rather than established scientific evidence.

When working with babies and children, I often observe how naturally they respond once their bodies begin to relax. Children frequently release tension quickly and may become calmer, more settled, and more comfortable. Supporting parents to understand their child’s emotional and physical needs is an important part of my work, helping families respond with greater confidence, compassion, and connection.

Every person is unique. Every body tells its own story and responds in its own way and in its own time. Each session honours the wisdom of the individual, supporting their natural journey towards greater balance, wellbeing, and inner peace.

Begin Your Healing Journey

Book your healing session today and discover how your body can naturally unfold, heal, and find balance—in your own way and in your own time.

Maria Esposito BSc (Hons)
Holistic Healing & Heart-Led Therapy


📍 North London

Supporting babies, children, and adults with compassionate, heart-led holistic care for over 30 years.

Healing Ourselves, Healing Our Children, Healing Our World!

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

Working with Babies, Children and Adults through Craniosacral Therapy

“What happens during a session? I don’t see anything happening. Are you doing anything?”

This is one of the questions I am asked most often.

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on therapy. Although the touch is light and the movements are subtle, many people describe experiencing a deep sense of relaxation during treatment.

During a session, I use my hands to gently assess areas of tension, restriction and movement throughout the body. My training in anatomy, physiology, the musculoskeletal system, fascia and the body’s natural rhythms allows me to work with the body in a careful, responsive and individualised way.

Rather than attempting to force change, the intention is to support the body’s natural processes and create the conditions in which it can function with greater ease and comfort.

Every session is tailored to the individual, recognising that each person’s experience is unique.

Working with Babies

Babies often respond well to the gentle nature of craniosacral therapy because their bodies are still developing and adapting to life outside the womb.

Birth can be an intense experience for both mother and baby. Whether the birth was straightforward or more complex, some parents choose craniosacral therapy as a way of supporting their baby’s adjustment during the early weeks and months.

Parents sometimes report that their babies appear calmer and more settled following treatment. Some also notice changes in feeding, sleeping patterns and general comfort. As every baby is unique, responses to treatment vary considerably.

The techniques used during treatment are extremely gentle and are intended to support relaxation and overall wellbeing.

Working with Children

Children may benefit from craniosacral therapy during times of physical, emotional or developmental change.

Parents often tell me that their children seem calmer, more comfortable and better able to cope with the demands of everyday life following treatment. Some children also appear more confident and better able to express themselves.

Each child is treated as an individual, and every session is adapted according to their needs.

Working with Adults

Many adults seek craniosacral therapy because they wish to make time for themselves, experience deep relaxation and explore a greater sense of balance and wellbeing.

Each session is unique because no two people are the same. Rather than directing the process, I work alongside you, allowing your body to respond in its own way and at its own pace.

Many people describe the experience as being like peeling back the layers of an onion, gradually revealing deeper patterns of tension, stress and holding.

From the moment you arrive, my intention is to provide a safe, supportive and compassionate environment in which you can relax. As the body settles, many people describe experiencing a greater sense of ease, calmness and wellbeing.

Every healing journey is unique, and we move forward at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Is Craniosacral Therapy the Same as Reiki?

People often ask me this question because some clients describe experiencing colours, images, deep relaxation, or a profound sense of peace during treatment.

Although there are similarities in the gentle nature of the touch, craniosacral therapy and Reiki are different approaches.

Craniosacral therapy is grounded in the study of anatomy, physiology and the body’s physical structures. The therapist works with gentle touch to assess and support the body’s natural movement and balance.

Reiki is a spiritual energy healing practice that works from a different philosophy and framework.

Some people find that craniosacral therapy also brings emotional or spiritual awareness during a session. This experience is unique to each individual and depends on many factors, including where they are on their own healing journey and what they are ready to explore.

My intention is always to support the whole person—with compassion, presence and respect for the body’s own wisdom and natural ability to move towards balance.

Breast Milk Production: How It Changes, Why It Matters, and How to Support It

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

Breast milk is an extraordinary and dynamic food. It is not just “milk” in the simple sense of the word, but a living fluid that adapts to your baby’s stage of growth, immune needs, and development.

As a nutritionist, I often speak to mothers who worry about whether their milk is “good enough”, whether they are producing enough, or whether their own nutrition is affecting their baby. The short answer is that breast milk is beautifully designed for human babies — but maternal health, nutrient status, and breastfeeding support still matter greatly.

In this article I want to explain, in a clear and practical way, how breast milk is produced, how it changes over time, what it contains, and when it may be helpful to seek extra support.

Colostrum: your baby’s first milk

The very first milk your body produces is called colostrum. This is present from birth and is made in small amounts during the first 2 to 3 days after delivery.

Colostrum is often thick and yellowish in colour, and although the volume is small, it is incredibly concentrated. It is rich in:

  • immune factors
  • antibodies
  • white blood cells
  • growth factors
  • protective compounds for the baby’s gut

In those first few days, colostrum helps to line and protect the baby’s intestinal tract, supports early immunity, and gives the baby a highly concentrated form of nourishment while their digestive system is adapting to life outside the womb.

When does “milk come in”?

Around 2 to 4 days after birth, milk production usually increases and the breasts may begin to feel fuller. This stage is often referred to as the milk “coming in”.

This happens because, after birth and delivery of the placenta, progesterone levels fall, allowing prolactin to stimulate milk production more effectively.

Two key hormones are involved here:

  • Prolactin – supports the production of milk
  • Oxytocin – helps the milk flow from the breast, often called the “let-down reflex”

Oxytocin is stimulated by your baby suckling, but it is also influenced by your nervous system. Stress, exhaustion, pain, and feeling unsupported can all affect how easily milk lets down, which is one reason why emotional and physical support in the early postnatal period matters so much.

Colostrum, transitional milk and mature milk

Breast milk does not suddenly switch from one type to another overnight. It develops in stages:

1. Colostrum

The first milk, produced in the first days after birth.

2. Transitional milk

This follows colostrum and is produced during roughly the first 2 weeks after birth. It contains increasing amounts of fat, lactose, and calories as milk supply becomes established.

3. Mature milk

After this early stage, mature milk becomes established. This is still not a static substance — it continues to change according to your baby’s needs, your feeding pattern, time of day, and stage of lactation.

So although we use the term “mature milk”, breast milk remains a living, changing fluid throughout the whole breastfeeding journey.

What does breast milk contain?

Breast milk is a complete and highly specialised food for babies. It contains:

  • water
  • fat
  • lactose (milk sugar)
  • protein
  • vitamins and minerals
  • enzymes
  • hormones
  • antibodies
  • immune factors
  • growth factors
  • bioactive compounds that support development and gut health

A general composition of mature breast milk is approximately:

  • 87% water
  • 3–5% fat
  • around 7% lactose
  • 0.8–0.9% protein

It provides both macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients, but it also does much more than feed a baby. It helps to shape the immune system, support the intestinal tract, and establish the baby’s microbiome. Breast milk is therefore both nutrition and communication between mother and baby.

Foremilk and hindmilk: do they matter?

You may have heard the terms foremilk and hindmilk.

  • Foremilk is the milk at the beginning of a feed and tends to be lower in fat.
  • Hindmilk is the milk later in the feed and is usually richer in fat.

Both are important. Rather than becoming anxious about the exact moment one becomes the other, the more useful principle is usually to allow the baby to feed well from one breast before switching, so that they have the opportunity to take in the full range of milk during that feed.

If your baby does not finish the second breast, it can be helpful to begin the next feed on the breast that was last used.

That said, every baby is different, and if feeding feels difficult, painful, very short, very long, or your baby seems unsettled after feeds, it is worth getting proper breastfeeding support rather than trying to work everything out alone.

Is breast milk enough for a baby?

This is one of the most common questions I hear from mothers, especially in the first weeks.

In most cases, yes — breast milk is enough. For a healthy term baby, breast milk is considered the ideal food and can provide everything a baby needs for the first 6 months of life, when breastfeeding is going well and the baby is feeding effectively.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, followed by the introduction of appropriate complementary foods from around 6 months, while continuing breastfeeding for up to 2 years and beyond if desired.

Of course, breastfeeding is not always straightforward, and there are times when extra support is needed. Some mothers struggle with supply, pain, latch, exhaustion, recovery after birth, or uncertainty about whether their baby is feeding effectively. In those situations, support should never be delayed.

Breast milk and the baby’s gut

One of the most fascinating aspects of breast milk is the way it supports the intestinal tract.

Colostrum and mature milk both contain compounds that help protect and nourish the gut lining. Breast milk also contains human milk oligosaccharides, which are special carbohydrates that act as prebiotics. These help feed beneficial bacteria in the baby’s gut and support immune development.

This is one of the reasons breast milk is so much more than a source of calories. It actively helps shape the baby’s internal environment, including the balance of bacteria in the intestinal tract.

Fats in breast milk and brain development

Fat is a major component of breast milk and is essential for growth, brain development, the nervous system, hormones, and cell membranes.

Breast milk fats include:

  • triglycerides
  • saturated fats
  • monounsaturated fats
  • omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Some aspects of breast milk fat are influenced by the mother’s diet and nutritional status, especially long-chain omega-3 fats such as DHA.

This is why maternal nutrition matters so much in pregnancy and breastfeeding. A mother’s diet does not have to be perfect, but it does need to be nourishing enough to support her own recovery, hormone balance, energy, and nutrient reserves, as well as the baby’s ongoing development.

This is especially important in mothers who are vegetarian, vegan, depleted after pregnancy, or have been running on stress, low appetite, or poor sleep for months.

Protein, antibodies and immune protection

Breast milk contains a wide range of proteins, not only for growth but also for protection and immune support.

These include:

  • secretory IgA
  • lactoferrin
  • lysozyme
  • alpha-lactalbumin
  • many other bioactive proteins and enzymes

These compounds help protect the baby’s intestinal tract, support the immune system, and contribute to healthy development.

The protein content of breast milk naturally changes over time, which is one more example of how beautifully adaptive human milk really is.

What about iron, vitamin D and vitamin K?

This is an important area, because many mothers understandably ask whether breast milk contains enough of everything.

Iron

Breast milk contains relatively small amounts of iron, but the iron it does contain is very well absorbed by the baby. Healthy full-term babies are also born with iron stores that help support them in the first months of life.

This is one reason why maternal iron status during pregnancy matters, and also why delayed cord clamping can be beneficial for infant iron stores after birth.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is one of the nutrients that deserves special attention. Breast milk is generally not a rich source of vitamin D unless maternal levels and supplementation are sufficient, so this is something to consider carefully in both pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Vitamin K

Breast milk is naturally low in vitamin K, which is one of the reasons newborn babies are routinely offered vitamin K at birth.

Overall, maternal nutrient status still matters greatly. I often encourage mothers to think not only about “feeding the baby”, but also about building and maintaining their own nutrient reserves.

Should mothers keep taking supplements while breastfeeding?

In many cases, yes, continuing nutritional support during breastfeeding can be very beneficial.

As a nutritionist, I often find that mothers are still significantly depleted after pregnancy and birth, especially if they have had:

  • low iron in pregnancy
  • nausea or poor intake
  • twins or closely spaced pregnancies
  • a difficult birth or caesarean section
  • poor sleep and high stress
  • a restrictive diet
  • ongoing breastfeeding demands on top of everything else

For many women, continuing with a good-quality pregnancy or postnatal multinutrient while breastfeeding can be a sensible option, depending on the individual case. This is particularly relevant where iron, vitamin D, iodine, omega-3 fats, or B vitamins may be low.

Of course, supplementation should never replace a good diet, but it can be a very useful part of supporting maternal recovery and milk quality.

What can affect milk supply?

There are several reasons why milk supply may feel low, or why a baby may not seem to be getting enough milk. Sometimes the issue is milk production, and sometimes it is milk transfer — in other words, the baby is not feeding effectively enough to remove milk well from the breast.

Possible factors include:

  • difficult or inefficient latch
  • infrequent feeding in the early days
  • maternal anaemia or significant blood loss after birth
  • retained placental tissue
  • breast surgery or breast tissue issues
  • hormonal or metabolic imbalances
  • maternal exhaustion, illness, stress, or undernourishment
  • a baby who is sleepy, unsettled, or struggling to feed effectively

This is why I always say: if breastfeeding feels hard, painful, confusing, or if your instincts tell you something is not right, please seek support early.

What about colic, constipation or digestive discomfort?

This is an area where parents can feel very worried and very overwhelmed.

Some babies are windy, unsettled, refluxy, or uncomfortable in the first weeks and months while their digestive system is maturing. But it is important not to dismiss every symptom as “just colic”, and equally not to panic about every variation in bowel habits.

Breastfed babies can have a very wide range of normal stool patterns. Some pass stools several times a day, while others may go less often once feeding is established. However, if a baby has hard stools, persistent distress, poor weight gain, blood in the stool, recurrent vomiting, or significant feeding difficulty, it is important to get them properly assessed.

Jaundice in the breastfed baby

Jaundice is quite common in newborns, especially in the first days and weeks of life, but it should always be discussed with a midwife, health visitor, GP, or neonatal team so that the baby is assessed appropriately.

There are different reasons why jaundice can occur. One is insufficient milk intake, where a baby is not feeding effectively and bilirubin is not being cleared well. Another is breast milk jaundice, which can occur in otherwise healthy, thriving breastfed babies and may last longer.

The key point is this: never assume jaundice is “just normal” without proper assessment, especially if the baby is sleepy, not feeding well, losing weight, or the jaundice seems prolonged.

Cow’s milk protein allergy and reactions through breast milk

Some breastfed babies can react to proteins from the mother’s diet that pass into breast milk, most commonly cow’s milk protein, and sometimes soy.

One possible presentation is food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis, which may show up with:

  • blood or mucus in stools
  • reflux-like symptoms
  • vomiting
  • irritability
  • eczema in some cases

This should always be assessed properly, because not every unsettled baby has an allergy, and not every rash or digestive symptom is caused by food proteins. If there is a genuine suspicion of cow’s milk protein allergy, a carefully guided maternal elimination trial may be appropriate, while also making sure the mother’s own diet remains nutritionally adequate.

Breastfeeding support matters

Breastfeeding is natural, but it is not always easy. It is very common for mothers to need support with:

  • latch and positioning
  • nipple pain
  • milk supply concerns
  • expressing and combination feeding
  • maternal nutrition during breastfeeding
  • reflux, wind, stools, or feeding-related questions
  • starting solids and how to transition well at 6 months and beyond

Sometimes what is needed is breastfeeding support. Sometimes it is nutritional support for the mother. Sometimes it is simply reassurance and a proper assessment of what is happening rather than guessing in the dark.

Final thoughts

Breast milk is a remarkable living fluid. It begins as colostrum, develops through transitional milk into mature milk, and continues to adapt throughout the breastfeeding journey. It nourishes, protects, communicates, and supports the baby in ways that go far beyond calories alone.

At the same time, mothers deserve support too.

If you are pregnant, preparing for breastfeeding, already breastfeeding, or feeling unsure about your own nutritional status, your baby’s feeding, your milk supply, or how to support your baby’s gut and development, getting the right support early can make a real difference.

How I can support you

I work with mothers during preconception, pregnancy, postnatal recovery, and breastfeeding, supporting areas such as:

  • maternal nutritional status
  • iron, vitamin D and general nutrient support
  • breastfeeding nutrition
  • digestive concerns in babies
  • weaning and introducing solids
  • postnatal recovery and nervous system support

If you would like support with your own nutrition during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or you would like to explore a more personalised approach for you and your baby, you are welcome to book a consultation with me.

Maria Esposito BSc (Hons)
Nutritionist & Craniosacral Therapist

Information taken from various sources:

From the article: Physiology, breast milk: Sarah Sabir; Ali F. Alhawaj. link to national Institued of Health and websearch.

Understanding Fascia, Craniosacral Therapy and Your Baby’s Development

by Craniosacral Therapy/Paediatric craniosacral therapy/Nutrition/NAET/ NLP Health Coach/Mindfulness meditation, posted in Blog

A baby’s body is remarkably adaptable during the first months of life. Their muscles, connective tissues (fascia), nervous system, and brain are developing at an extraordinary pace. Gentle therapies such as Craniosacral Therapy aim to support this natural development by encouraging relaxation, ease of movement, and regulation of the nervous system.

What You May Notice During a Craniosacral Therapy Session

During treatment, babies often respond in their own unique way. If there are mild areas of tension or restriction, particularly around the neck, shoulders, back, or throughout the body’s fascial system, you may notice gentle stretching, turning, twisting, arching, or small shaking movements. These responses are usually subtle, spontaneous, and led entirely by the baby.

As the session progresses, many babies naturally become quieter and more settled. Parents often notice their baby appearing softer, calmer, more comfortable, and more relaxed.

From a Craniosacral Therapy and fascial perspective, these gentle changes may reflect the nervous system moving towards greater regulation and balance. Relaxation is also associated with activation of the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system, including healthy vagal nerve function, which plays an important role in digestion, sleep, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing.

Every baby responds differently, and no specific outcome can be guaranteed.

How Craniosacral Therapy May Support Babies

Many parents seek Craniosacral Therapy when their baby experiences:

  • Birth tension or birth trauma
  • Colic or digestive discomfort
  • Reflux
  • Feeding or latching difficulties
  • Difficulty settling or sleeping
  • Preference for turning the head to one side
  • Neck or body stiffness
  • Flat head (plagiocephaly)
  • General restlessness or irritability

Following treatment, some parents report that their babies appear calmer, sleep more peacefully, feed more comfortably, and seem generally more settled. Responses vary from baby to baby.

What is Fascia?

Fascia is a remarkable web of connective tissue that surrounds and supports every muscle, bone, organ, nerve, blood vessel, and joint throughout the body.

It begins forming during the earliest stages of pregnancy and develops alongside every other body system. Rather than being simply a wrapping around muscles, fascia forms one continuous network that connects the entire body.

In babies, fascia is naturally:

  • Highly hydrated
  • Soft and elastic
  • Extremely adaptable
  • Constantly changing as growth and movement develop

Because of these qualities, infants have an incredible capacity to adapt as they learn new movement patterns.

The Role of Fascia in Early Development

Healthy fascial tissues help support:

  • Movement and posture
  • Coordination
  • Balance
  • Joint mobility
  • Muscle function
  • Body awareness
  • Communication between the body and nervous system

As babies learn to roll, crawl, sit, stand, and eventually walk, their fascial system continually adapts to support these developmental milestones.

Birth and the Fascial System

Birth is an extraordinary physical event.

Whether a baby is born vaginally or by caesarean section, their body experiences compression, rotation, stretching, and pressure.

Most babies adapt beautifully to these natural forces.

Occasionally, however, some babies may develop areas of muscular tightness or fascial restriction that can influence their comfort or movement.

These patterns may sometimes present as:

  • Persistent head turning to one side
  • Difficulty lying comfortably on the back or tummy
  • Feeding or latching difficulties
  • Excessive crying
  • Colic or reflux symptoms
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Startling easily
  • General unsettled behaviour
  • A flattened area on one side of the head (plagiocephaly)
  • Neck, shoulder, or back tightness

Sometimes these patterns gradually improve as babies grow and move more freely. In other cases, parents choose gentle manual therapy to support their baby’s comfort and mobility.

Traditional and Holistic Perspectives

Within Craniosacral Therapy, practitioners observe that physical tension patterns may develop during pregnancy, birth, or early infancy.

Using gentle, non-invasive touch, treatment aims to support relaxation, ease of movement, and the body’s own self-regulating processes.

Many parents report improvements in feeding, settling, sleep, comfort, and overall wellbeing following treatment. While these experiences are encouraging, scientific evidence for Craniosacral Therapy remains limited, and individual responses vary.

Emotional Sensitivity in Babies

Babies are highly sensitive to both their physical and emotional environment.

Many therapists observe that during treatment a baby may suddenly cry, stretch, yawn, sigh, or make spontaneous movements before settling into a deeper state of relaxation. From a holistic perspective, these responses are viewed as part of the baby’s natural process of releasing tension and adapting to previous experiences.

Although many parents and practitioners find these observations meaningful, research has not established that babies “release trauma” in this way, so these interpretations are best understood as part of the holistic model of care rather than proven scientific fact.

Supporting Healthy Fascial Development

Parents can support their baby’s natural development by:

  • Allowing plenty of free movement and avoiding prolonged restriction whenever appropriate.
  • Using swaddling thoughtfully and only when suitable for comfort and safe sleep, while also providing regular opportunities for unrestricted movement during awake time.
  • Offering supervised tummy time from an early age, building gradually as your baby tolerates it. For newborns, tummy time can also be supported through skin-to-skin contact or carrying positions such as the “Tiger in the Tree” hold.
  • Encouraging natural movement and exploration as babies develop.
  • Handling and carrying babies gently.
  • Following current infant feeding guidance, including exclusive milk feeding for around the first six months unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional.
  • Providing loving, responsive caregiving, which supports emotional security, healthy brain development, and lifelong wellbeing.

Conclusion

Fascia plays an essential role in your baby’s growth, movement, coordination, and physical development. During infancy, these connective tissues are exceptionally adaptable and continue to develop alongside the nervous system and musculoskeletal system.

Craniosacral Therapy offers a gentle, holistic approach that may help support relaxation, comfort, and ease of movement for some babies. Combined with responsive parenting, natural movement, and appropriate medical care when needed, it can form part of a nurturing approach to supporting your baby’s healthy development.