The weekly “little of this, like of that” feature here at Like Mother, Like Daughter!
I mentioned that my sisters and I are working out.
Anyone who might be tempted to become intimidated by my modest workout routine may observe my highly sophisticated equipment selection as a reminder that I do not consider myself a workout-y person. (That is a kid-sized soccer ball, currently and very stylishly serving my compression-exercise needs. The towel is another advanced workout instrument, frequently referred to by insiders as a “rolled-up towel.”)
But I do want to share about this particular routine, as we have received a review subscription to a program that we think might be of benefit to our readers. I'm going to write about it in detail when I've completed it, but for now I'll just let you know that it's out there, in case you (like me a little over a month ago) don't know that it exists.
The program is designed specifically for post-partum women. It targets diastasis recti and core and pelvic floor issues, but can also be for post-partum weight loss. I was looking for solutions for my diastasis recti condition after this second pregnancy and found this program that, frankly, seems a lot more realistic and holistic than any other approach I've come upon.
It's called the Mutu System. It's a “system” because it provides instructions not only for specific exercises, but also for daily habits and eating that, all together, address the core-related problems that moms suffer. Rosie, Suki, and I are doing it and are pretty much keeping up with each other, although not perfectly in sync. I'm currently in Week 4 of twelve weeks. I can tell you that, so far, I am feeling stronger, more energetic, and I think I can sense my diastasis resolving somewhat, although I know not to expect immediate results on that front.
(Full disclosure: this is not an affiliate link. I will wait until we're done with the program to give you my full review and tell you if I think it's worth your money! At that time I may use an affiliate link, but only if we decide it's a worthwhile product. We want you assure you that we are not selling out, and that we value your trust!)
Right off the bat, though, if you're interested in this topic, I can recommend the site through which I learned about MuTu: Diastasis Rectified. This post (and others on her blog) continues to be a helpful resource to me as I try to heal my core and keep my body in good health and shape for child-bearing.
Other links this week!
I know that my mom provided some reading on Justice Scalia last week, but I do have some more.
- Father Schall writes about not the man, but the man's funeral service: A Reminder of What Life is Really About. Reading this makes me strongly wish that I had been there!
- He references the homily by our dear Father Scalia, which you should take some time (15 min) to watch:
Other:
- Also from Catholic World Report, a clarifying piece about a confusing topic: Contraception, Congo Nuns, Choosing the Lesser Evil, and Conflict of Commandments.
- Also related to religious sisters: an introduction to Blessed Julia Rodzińska, the “Angel of Stutthof Concentration Camp.“
- A quick item for women to pass on to their menfolk: How to Bless your Children.
- As recommended in The Little Oratory, praying the Liturgy of the House in “the King's English” will be a wonderful formation of beauty in the home, as well, of course, as joining the family in worship. David Clayton explains this new volume and what it might mean for families who want to pray together — The Anglican Ordinariate Divine Office – A Wonderful Gift for Lay People and Hope for the Transformation of Western Culture. As David mentions in the post, you can buy the book from Book Depository –– cheaper than Amazon and free shipping!
Liturgical Year:
Today is the feast of St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, patron of young people and religious novices!
Terri says
Thanks again for all the great links and especially the ones related to Justice Scalia. Fr. Scalia’s homily was one of the best I’ve ever heard–certainly the best one at a funeral mass. What a blessing!
Rebekah says
I just wanted to share the resources I’ve found that have been most effective in treating my diastasis. I have no experience with Mutu, but I’ve found that many programs help short term but cause back pain😞 and pelvic floor damage 😱in the long run by encouraging holding in the stomach muscles at all times. This creates unnatural pressures in other body cavities.
My best progress has come with the amazing work of Katy Bowman and a fantastic restorative exercise physical therapist(Susan McLaughlin of align for those in SLC, ut). Katy’s blog is gold, but she has a book now directly addressing diastasis. http://nutritiousmovement.com/product/diastasis-recti-the-whole-body-solution-to-abdominal-weakness-and-separation/
This lady is using mutu in combination with Katy Bowman’s biomechanics principles
http://diastasisrectified.com/tag/katy-bowman/
This is such a frustrating issue, but it really does require a holistic approach since every movement we make involves our core strength I some way.
Hope you all can be encouraged, blessed with great progress, and stronger better functioning bodies!
Deirdre says
Thanks for the info and the good wishes, Rebekah! I am interested in looking into Katy Bowman.
You’ll see that I also mentioned the Diastasis Rectified blog above. Very helpful!
Katie says
Chiming in to second the mention of Katy Bowman! Her work is smart, sensible, challenging, and entertaining, and she has truly shaped my understanding of my body pregnant, post-partum, and just generally as an adult in charge of my own destiny re wellness and movement (and now, that of my children too). Can’t recommend her highly enough. Seriously, her blog and LMLD have been my two favorites for years. You can follow “Nutritious Movement” on FB/IG; and her Katy Says podcast is great listening for edification during dishes, laundry, etc. =)
Jacki Weishaar says
Thanks for the recommendation! I’ve suffered from debilitating SPD (symphysis pubic disorder) during both my pregnancies. It’s the one thing that scares me most about another pregnancy (even more so than a third go-around with preeclampsia). Do you think her approach would help with that?
Susan says
Thirding (fourthing) Katy Bowman! But no fear with Mutu–the founder is a graduate of Katy’s program. A few years back several of us doing Mutu got together and formed a spin off group to dive deep on more of Katy’s work and get more into the whole body alignment philosophy that undergirds it. It’s called “All About Alignment” on Facebook if anyone wants to join.
Rebekah says
Sorry for the repeat… Lol. I thought that link sounded familiar.
Marty says
I’m on week six of mutu, I took the plunge when 5 months postpartum my DR was WORSE than after my baby was born, it had gone from a two finger gap to a four so I knew I had to do something in order to be able to face future pregnancies! It’s now maybe a one at the widest point and tightening up nicely. I also despise working out but can motivate myself to do her stuff, maybe it’s the accent. It’s the only thing I’ve done that has had any results, at four weeks I compared pics and I would say I went from still looking 3-6 months prego to just looking a bit chubby, in my book that’s a win!
Deirdre says
That’s awesome, Marty! Good for you!
Caitlin says
” as I try to heal my core and keep my body in good health and shape for child-bearing.” I LOVE the perspective here. I do not need to make myself look like a woman who hasn’t had a child. (I mean, I wouldn’t hate that or anything 😉 ha!) But that is not the point of exercise, when I do exercise. It’s functional fitness… Being able to keep up with my child, and with life in general… Which, I pray, will include lots more children!
I’ve only been pregnant once so far and am wondering if dr is something I need to worry about… I know a few women who had it, but didn’t realize until the next pregnancy. I am going to be proactive and check out the resources above! Thanks!
Kelsey says
I don’t think you need to “worry” about DR, or any other physical ailment, but educating yourself is a good first step. DR is not so much a result of pregnancy – though that is often the last straw, so to speak – but a product of our modern lifestyle and a general lack of true core strength. Here’s a link to an easy and accurate way to self-test: https://fit2b.us/how-to-check-for-diastasis-hd/
Caitlin says
Cool! Thanks!
Kelsey says
Ah yes, lovely diastasis. I mentioned some of my thoughts in your previous post, and I am totally not trying to become the DR troll – I’m just so glad that more people are talking about it!
Katy Bowman is fantastic, although I think her approach can seem overwhelming at first because she truly discusses how you need to change pretty much everything about how you move and carry your body. But, I think she’s right! I have completely given up wearing any type of heeled shoe – ever – because of her. Another great resource is fit2b.com, which is kind of like an online “gym” that offers workout routines that are safe for those with DR and pelvic floor issues. The woman who owns it is Christian, and the site is modest, wholesome, and membership is affordable. She also is just a very warm and caring person who understands where women are at with their bodies.
I have to say that the biggest improvement I have seen with my own DR has come after working one-on-one with a local physical therapist. It was a big step for me to take, but it has been so worth it. I thought I was realigning myself properly, but she tweaked my approach just enough to really make a difference. Plus, she told me that progesterone dominance – like during pregnancy and nursing (before return of fertility) – makes DR and general tissue healing a slower process. I can vouch that, being in my third postpartum cycle (after having 2 children in 18 months) I have noticed a significant improvement in my “gap” in just this last cycle. So much of the healing process is hormonal.
Of course, the physical toll of childbearing cannot compare to the gift of new life. These are our “wounds of love,” to quote The Selfish Giant 🙂 But taking care of ourselves is a gift to our families. Thank you for bringing this up!
Kelsey says
Whoops, I gave the wrong address for the workout site. It’s actually fit2b.us – the other one is an interior design company!
Deirdre says
You’re not being a troll, Kelsey! I’m glad that you’re into this topic. I had a sense that it would be relevant to a lot of LMLD folks!
Mrs. B. says
I guess it’s a typo, but “Liturgy of the House” is a beautiful and meaningful expression nonetheless 🙂
I always like the “manly” links I find in {b&p} – thank you!
Mary says
The article about the Congo nuns seems more confusing than clarifying! Or maybe I’m missing something… but I find it hard to believe that the Church would ever justify nuns’ use of contraceptives, even under such circumstances. I also find it hard to believe Pope Francis wouldn’t have his facts straight about this incident, but maybe he doesn’t? Some of the comments following the article make it sound like maybe the story about the nuns was just a hypothetical talking point. Any further insights?
Jana says
The basic distinction is that contraception is a grave moral evil because it frustrates the *conjugal* act. Nuns vow to be celibate, so in their case, taking ovulation suppressing contraceptives in case of grave danger (these poor women!) do not frustrate the purpose of a conjugal act, rather it is self-defense against violence. It is so important to keep this in mind, that having violence done to you is not the same as a freely willed act. the Church is the only one that makes this distinction, and in doing so, I think it does inestimable good for the victims of this unspeakable crime. Here is another Janet Smith article that explains this a little more.
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Blog/4611/did_paul_vi_approve_of_congo_nuns_using_the_pill_does_it_matter_if_he_didnt.aspx
Lisa G. says
Taking a contraceptive is no protection against violence (I hope I’m typing correctly, because I’ve just been to the eye doctor. :D), it only protects against the possible result of it, which still would be preventing an innocent life. I didn’t read the article which Deirdre linked to yet; I’m just giving an opinion. To say it bluntly, if the nuns are (God forbid!) going to get raped, then “allowing” them to become pregnant would certainly be the lesser of the two evils. If they are, as faithful Catholics, accepting everything, then a pregnancy could be included in that. ? You know what I mean? Better to whisk them out of there, than to give them contraceptives, IMHO.
Cathy L. says
Yeah, I hear you. On the one hand, I agree. Accepting and offering up whatever suffering may come our way, even at the evil hands of others (think of Christ’s Passion) seems to be a virtue that society as a whole is lacking. And, yes, moving them out of that very potentially harmful sitation definitely seems to be the better form of self-defense, but maybe that wasn’t an option at the time….I have no idea; I am extremely minimally briefed on this whole topic. But, on the flip side, I think if we aren’t careful, and take that reasoning to its logical conclusion, then we end up on the opposite extreme and never doing anything whatsoever to reasonably ease the sufferings of ourselves and others. Virtue lies in the balance between two extremes, right? In good conscience, we can certainly take an Advil to alieviate a headache, but wouldn’t the more perfect thing be to suffer that pain and offer it with Our Lord in reparation for sin? Although, even Our Lord allowed Veronica to wipe His face, and Simon to help Him carry His cross. Of course, this particular situation seems more complicated than most. I’ve heard it said before that Satan’s favorite color is grey….the more life I experience, the more I think how true that is! It is often very difficult to discern just what the right decision is, and it really does feel like we are forced to choose between the lesser of two evils many times. All we can do is pray, learn our faith, and do our best. The rest is up to God.
Lisa G. says
In my view, the big difference here is, since I believe that most artificial birth control is possibly abortifacient, what’s worse: to kill, or to be killed? I’m not talking here about the horrors of living in fear of rape, or anything of that kind. Do we want to be entirely faithful to the 5th Commandment? When nobody else is anymore.
The decision to take a pain med is a smaller issue – I don’t believe it would be wrong to want to get rid of pain, but refusing it in order to offer it up for others – supererogation – is up to the person. Depending on the inner motive that could be fanaticism and it could be heroism. But that refusal would be up to the individual. To refuse to give help of that kind to another, though – that would always be wrong, because we aren’t “authorized” by God to try and make our fellows fall in with our personal ideas of proper Christian behavior.
I never heard anyone say the Evil One’s favorite color is gray. I’ve always been a black and white thinker, and now that I’m older, I’m grateful that gray has become a possibility for me. I was too strident in my attitudes. This is nothing against you, Cathy, but I’m really saying two things, I guess: One, that if it’s wrong to use artificial birth control, then it’s always wrong, and Two, in situations such as the one these sisters are/were in, if they are made of the stuff of martyrs, they will stay there, possibly get raped, and possibly get impregnated, or, if they’re less brave (for which I make no criticism!), they should appeal to their superiors and be removed from there. God is in control. In our faith, we revere many who died horribly – it would be nothing new. And, lest anyone thinks I’m of the stuff of a Charles Foucauld – I’m not! I’d be terrified if I were one of those nuns.
God bless. 🙂
Dixie says
Just a clarification: let’s note, too, that in the early 1960’s,we did not understand that the Pill could be an abortifacient (in fact, I’m not sure whether the Pill of those days in fact was one or not — I just don’t know). So the question of aborting a fertilized egg through the Pill was moot — it would have been a question of preventing ovulation.
Cathy L. says
Yes, this is my understanding, as well. I also gather that the contraceptive would not be taken continually, but only after a rape attack. This would be true for laity and religous women, alike. Also, tests would be done after the attack to find out if 1) the woman was already pregnant (from a previous encounter, not the attack), and 2) to see if the woman had not yet ovulated. If the woman was neither pregnant nor had ovulation, then there would be no danger of abortion, and she could, in good conscience, take the pill. I’m not saying one way or another if I personally agree with that reasoning, but rather that is how understand the particular situatuon. I also am not sure if that is what the church officially teaches. It seems there is some confusion about that, as well. However, if it is, in fact, what Holy Mother Church teaches, then my personal opinion matters little. Also, the woman would not have to follow that course of treatment, just because she is allowed to. Whether or not she should is an entirely different issue….one that would be a very personal decision to be made with lots of prudence, prayer, and (hopefully) guidance from a holy priest.
Mary says
Seems like a slippery slope to say that contraception is a grave moral evil only when it frustrates the *conjugal* act. From there, you could reason that contraception outside of marriage is ok, or that it’s a good idea for single, chaste women to all be on the pill so that they wouldn’t risk pregnancy if they happened to be raped. And what about the instances when contraceptives work as abortifacients?
Thanks for linking another article, I will take a look at it!
Deirdre says
Hi Mary,
This article might help clear up the question about the nuns in the Congo: http://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/the-city-gates.cfm?ID=1242 Apparently the theology is still a bit under debate.
The short answer is that yes, the Pope could have his facts mixed up about this. As much as I hate to say anything against our dear Pontiff, what he said in that interview was an utter mess.
Lisa G. says
Your father’s thinking on this seems reasonable to me, especially the second point. But I have said enough on this subject. 🙂
Mary says
Thanks, Deirdre, that was a helpful article.
Shannon says
Hello!
Could you suggest any websites/ youtube where I could follow daily, the Liturgy of the Hours, maybe where they do the actual day you are on currently in. Not where it’s just Monday in ordinary time- I understand that feast days on certain days of the week change the way its said…or maybe I have it confused.. Anyway. I have books for our family to use, and have always wanted to learn how and when it’s appropriate to say them. But when I start reading on how to do it…I just get confused. I need a person to just do it and I follow along, even if it’s over the internet. Then maybe with repetition I will get it. And I don’t even know if my email here makes sense..lol Thank you for all the information and wisdom you disseminate to us readers. It’s like the icing on the cake at the end of the day.
Mrs. B. says
Shannon, there are several online resources that came to the rescue of so many of us who found they spent as much time figuring out what was to be prayed as they did praying 🙂
There is Universalis (http://universalis.com/), which has a website and an app.
There is iBreviary (http://www.ibreviary.org/en/ibreviary/what-is-the-ibreviary.html), which is for phones only, I think.
There is DivineOffice (http://divineoffice.org/).
If you’re interested in the Latin version as well (with English as well), there is Divinum Officium (http://divinumofficium.com/cgi-bin/horas/officium.pl#), offering several old calendars, the most recent of them being 1960: I am not sure if that one is also the calendar followed by the 1962 Missal, used now for the Traditional Latin Mass, or if there were further changes to it during those 2 years.
Maybe if you google “Liturgy of the Hours online” you’ll come up with even more options!
Michelle (Michelle) says
I have used the Divine Office app on my iPad and phone for two years now. I love it because I am able to pray whenever I am up with a baby early morning and at night with the kids before we go to bed, or at any time during the day where I think we might need to drop everything and pray. Books would be better and I think more reverent, but my four oldest have much of the night prayers memorized and i embrace that. I consider it money well spent. There is daily audio but we don’t use it.
Rosemary says
Hi Shanon,
My Dad polled our family for an online Liturgy of the Hours. Divineoffice.org won hands down. It is a wonderful site. Best of luck to you!
NY Mom says
I just read the story about Bl. Julia Rodzinska. Thank you for sharing the link with us; her life was amazing. I wrote the nuns for prayer cards and hope they answer. All I can say is I feel like such a pampered slug compared to this great woman.
Leila says
Just a note on the contraceptive issue (see previous comments): It’s by no means clear if the story about the nuns in the Congo is real.
If it is, it has no moral bearing on those facing the possibility of conceiving a child who might have an abnormality. No one may frustrate the marital act (although one may *abstain* from the marital act).
One can make the argument that in the case of possible rape it would be justified to give the high-estrogen Pill to the nuns (not the low-estrogen one that came later, which is thought — not proven, but highly likely — to be abortifacient) on the grounds that ovulation is prevented. Where there is no ovulation, there is no possibility of conception, and where there is violence, self-defense is justified. (See the articles linked above.) Rape is not “the conjugal act.” It is not ordered to procreation.
However, again, this is a rather arcane discussion, given the level of uncertainty of… everything.
And yes, the illicitness of contraception must be discussed in the context of conjugal relations, because the end of conjugal relations is procreation. The meaning of the sexual act *is* a conjugal meaning — there is no taking it as a *purely* physical act. It’s not that it’s permissible to use contraception outside of marriage — it’s that, having radically disrupted the meaning of the act by taking it outside of marriage, the point about contraception is moot.
In other words, maximum violence has already been done to the sexual act by removing it from the context of marriage. See the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2370, which calls “intrinsically evil” “every action which, whether in anticipation of the *conjugal act*, or in its accomplishment, or in the development of its natural consequences, proposes, whether as an end or as a means, to render procreation impossible.”
I think we fall into worrying about contraception outside of marriage because we are used to thinking of marriage as a sort of add-on or optional state. Whereas there is nothing more central to creation than marriage! Thus, we are worrying about the wrong thing!
Lynn says
Did you ever finish the mutu programm? I’m looking for a DR program and interested in your review of it!
Jennifer says
Hi, Deidre! I second Lynn’s question about the MuTu program. I’m looking to find a program that is simple to follow as a mom who works full time outside the home.
Thanks for all your great articles!