Dr. Carleigh Sturge, ND

May the 4th be with you (and may one of them inherit my kid lisp)

Today is International Bereaved Mother's Day. You become a mother once the expectation for a child grows in your heart. Long before you hear a heartbeat. Long before you would bring a child home. Before they learn to walk. Before they leave for college. You are a mother the moment that expectation takes form in your mind. Being a mother does not stop when your child is gone. For all of those mothers who never got to hear a heartbeat, we see you. For all those mothers who n...ever got to hear their baby cry, we see you. For all the mothers who never got to take their baby home, we see you. For all the mothers who have lost a child, we see you. You are not alone. We honour you and your beautiful children today and always. We wish you peace and support in your grief as you continue on. Please reach out if you need a safe place to be. We are here. @fertility_canada #fertilitymatters #1in6 #1in4 #infantloss #miscarriage #infantdeath #stillbirth #infertility #ttcjourney #weseeyou2020 #infertilitysupport

Happy 1st Birthday @moss_postpartum_house! As a new parent with family and friends living all over (and out of) the country, this special brick house has been so important for support and survival. From its warm and welcoming community to its talented team of practitioners, this place is pure magic Congrats on your first year of helping families, and heres to many more Happy Birthday, MOSS - Im so glad you were born!

It can be frustrating seeing ads about shortages or the urgent need for donationsThis sometimes makes me question the policies @canadaslifeline that exclude many healthy individuals Frustrations aside, Im grateful that Im able to donate (and hope you can too!) 20 ... #sarahturpinforever #bloodforturpin See more

Hump Day just got a little more exciting, thanks to @apothecaryyyc! Weve been missing one of our fav stores these days, so we were extra pumped to learn they DELIVER! You can sign up on their website and apply to be a part of their Mobile Refillery program Zero-waste goodies, delivered to your door while supporting an amazing local business? ... Thats a win-win-win right there! See more

Day fLourteen: grateful for un-intimidating recipes Up until this week: bread = scary, and I had never made it Thanks to @basically for this no-nonsense focaccia. This was my second batch, and my sous-chef got brave and decided to add bacon ... Now, where to find more yeast in this city? See more

Day 13: Grateful to the farmers, vendors and employees that keep the @calgaryfarmersmarket safely running as an essential service in our city Fun fact: they have curbside pickup!

Day 12 (skipped yesterday ): today Im grateful for reminders to check in. @ashleysauvehealth is hosting a journaling challenge for this month - its not too late to start. I did mine as a phone note yesterday, but am pumped for real paper and pen today. Ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-check it out! #Repost @ashleysauvehealth Okay guys, heres your guide for Aprils #30dayjournallingchallenge!... There is only one rule: journal every day. Everything else is a suggestion. Find what works for you! Every morning, I will post new prompt for that day in my stories. All prompts will be saved in a highlight. It might help if you turn on post notifications for my account so you dont miss anything. You can write in the morning, in the evening, on your lunch break, at the same time every day or at a different time depending on how your days looks. Just fit it in. Its self care. Aim for three pages. If all you get down is a sentence, thats okay too. There will be thoughts youll want to keep to yourself, and others you might want to share! If you do share here, tag me and use the hashtag #30dayjournallingchallenge so I can see it and re-post. Sharing will help more people find the challenge! Some days it will flow and the days it will be harder. If my prompt doesnt work for you and you have something else on your mind, roll with it. Just dont skip a day! You can join ANY time! So if youre seeing this after April 1st, its not too late. Ill be sharing posts, thoughts, and questions throughout the month so we can get together and share whats coming up. I cant wait to see what comes up for you guys! Did I miss anything? Let me know if you have any other questions! Leave a in the comments if youre excited - first prompt coming tomorrow morning! See more

Day 10 & grateful its almost April. Almost.

Day 10: I cant imagine trying to explain all this to little hearts and minds. Even the grown-ups are overwhelmed these days Grateful to the parents, teachers, and caregivers who are doing an amazing job with the impressionable people in their lives Came across these beauties walking our birthday boy Who knew a neighbourhood could be so optimistic? @ Calgary, Alberta

Day 9: Today I'm grateful for the inspiration I draw from my colleagues. I really love the above quote, posted by @drjordannd. Sometimes social media can be uncomfortable, but stepping outside your comfort zone can be hella rewarding! One thing is for sure - it helps to have others to cheer you on , draw inspiration from, and get their pets account to like your posts

Day 8: It took me a long time to be nicer to myself and accept the advice Ive given others: Pumping is still breastfeeding Its just not nursing. I struggled going back to work and trying to keep up with my pumping schedule . I was so grateful for what freezer stash I had, but my supply dipped. I pumped before my morning patients, on my lunch , before I hopped on the train home. I pumped in my office, at the mall, in public bathrooms , at other peoples houses, in... appointments. My supply dipped. I drank litres of terrible tasting tea. I made (ruined) a sports bra into a hands-free pumping bra . I ate ALL THE OATS. I woke up and pumped every 3 hours at night. My supply dipped. I appreciate that everyones feeding journey is unique and there is zero judgement from this mama on how you nourish your wee ones (#fedisbest) - for me personally, it was heartbreaking. Staying home from work has been stressful and refreshing all at once. Theres uncertainty about pretty much everything right now, but one thing is certain for me .... ... today Im grateful for these extra ounces. See more

It takes 10 seconds and you can do it in your underwear Heres one way I like to regroup and ground myself when everything seems swirly - Ive been finding it extra useful these days Day 7 - Grateful for my colleagues and the amazing crew @paradigmhealth. While Im glad we all can focus on protecting our patients and each other, Im so pumped for when we get to work together again. ... Looking forward to seeing you soon at Paradigm! In Health & Hand Washing , - Dr. Carleigh. See more

Day 6: Today Im grateful for good old fashioned sunshine. Thanks Mother Nature, it makes all the difference

Day 5: Piggybacking on yesterdays theme, Im grateful for the Helpers. Doctors, Nurses, Hospital Staff, First Responders (EMR/PCP/ACP/CCPs) Pharmacists, HealthLink-ers, Police, Fire Fighters, Caregivers, Military ... Farmers, Restaurant Staff, Grocery Store Employees, and everyone who plays a role in Delivery services Practitioners offering virtual support during an overwhelming time Researchers working to learn more and share accurate information quickly Teachers, Volunteers, Sanitation Workers, Artists, Generous Neighbours .... the list can go on and on and on. THANK YOU! You deserve the same attention you give to your patients, customers, clients, students, and guests. If youre fortunate enough to have one, please #stayhome See more

Day 4 of .... Today Im grateful for our letter carrier, Mike. He continues to work to bring everyone their snail mail , bills , online retail therapy, and all with the warmest smile. He always asks about the babies and loves to see @gooselightnin in the window. @canadapostagram has gifted us with some of the kindest workers and weve been lucky enough to get to know them in each city weve lived in. You can do your part to protect them, and their families. It... might seem rude, but by not stopping them on their route or greeting them at the door, they can do their work safely and efficiently. Most importantly, you can help by choosing to #stayhome. Also, thankful for other delivery workers who make sure our human babies have dry bums and our fur baby has lots of healthy food! (@backtobasicsyyc, you rock!) See more

Day 3/14: missing these turkeys (and our duck!) Grateful for technology that keeps families and friends connected across provinces, countries, and continents. Choosing to #stayhome can be tough, but its so necessary right now - and this makes us all feel a little closer. Tag someone youre missing, or better yet - give em a ring!

I dont know about you, but my screens and newsfeeds have been a bit overwhelming lately. Im all for accurate updates and staying informed, but my brain and heart need a shift I dont have a 5 minute journal and Im not heading out to find one anytime soon, so improvisation ... here we go! Day 1/14: Starting things off with what seems simple, but is truly a privilege and often taken for granted. This morning, Im thankful for this bowl of food and the conten...ts of our pantry. Next time you venture out to re-stock, consider buying some extras if its within your means and donating it to the big bins in most grocery stores. There are lists online of what is currently in highest need. You can also donate online (https://www.calgaryfoodbank.com/donatefunds/) where every $1 donated can distribute $5 worth of food in Calgary. Feel free to share what you are thankful for today Lets keep this grateful train a chuggin See more

Preventative Medicine 101. #Repost @paradigmhealth Covid-19 Update To our valued patients at Paradigm,... . In consultation with our medical staff, and in an effort to flatten the curve, the ownership group at Paradigm Health has made the appropriate decision to suspend all in-person appointments effective March 18 until April 3 2020. . We will monitor the situation daily and continue to make decisions as updates become available. In our profession, we talk about being proactive instead of reactive, and hope to be a good example of this behavior. . Our doctors are still available for phone consultations and we will make arrangements to enable refilling of supplements. . We will continue to answer phone calls and respond to email messages. Please reach out if you have any questions! See more

Happy St Patricks Day - homebody breakie style! #pancakekeggers seem like yesteryear these days. Mix some eggs with baby spinach and a pinch of salt in your finest blender. Heat a teaspoon of avocado oil in a skillet on medium heat, and scramble those babies. ... Serve your green eggs with ham, toast, avocado, green grapes, whatever your heart desires. Now, where did I place my gold leaf? Thanks for the inspo, @biccns! See more

you shine. i shine. we shine together. heres to all the incredible women/womxn who inspire today and everyday. : @libbyvanderploeg

This Sunday, March 8, at 3:00AM the clocks spring forward. While smart phones and computers will automatically adjust, babies and microwaves dont. The science behind it: circadian rhythm drives wakefulness right before bed, and sleeping/waking at regular times every day. Light exposure helps to lock our rhythm into a routine, and only light exposure can truly reset it. The combo of losing an hour of sleep (boo!) and shaking up our circadian rhythm can lea...ve us feeling jet-lagged, babies = no exception. So, what can you do about it? Darken the lights in your house an hour before bed, ideally at least 4 days before the time change (*TONIGHT*) Gradually adjust bedtime, 10-15 mins earlier each night leading up Adjust wake up time if needed (say what?!) Slowly adjust naps Visit @peaceful.slumber for your guide to daylight savings, and other ways to improve sleep for everyone in your house! Smother on that patience like peanut butter Also, Im currently accepting new patients @paradigmhealth; whether its related to sleep, postpartum support, or taking care of your whole self. Booking link in bio Big thank you to Alison @peaceful.slumber for the tips & reminder for this new mama bird . Wish us luck! See more

New Moon + New Lunar Year = Magical Rats? New moons are all about fresh starts and setting shiny new intentions. Full disclosure: Ive been resistant to dancing back into the social media shuffle. Hoping to strike a balance of boundaries ... This also marks the year of the Metal Rat. The Rat signifies wealth and prosperity, and the sign of Metal brings with it sturdiness and stability. Heres to a brand new sturdy, stable, successful start. Say that 5 times fast! @europeanspaceagency #newmoon #lunarnewyear #lunar #rat #yearoftherat #balance #fresh #magic See more

extra thankful for these fresh turkeys #gobblegobble ... and on that note, signing off until the new year to soak up the magic. happy holidays

Wise words from a good friend and amazing woman @amandasatov.nd , couldnt have said it better myself! SPRING HAS SPRUNG! Vernal equinox, Ostara, first day of Spring This day has many names and meanings, but no matter what you call it, it is a new beginning. ... Today the hours of darkness equal light as a new season begins. We move from the slow, restorative quality of winter to the quickening, fecund feelings of spring. . The long awaited rebirth of Mother Earth is easily felt in ourselves as well. As we prepare to plant seeds in our garden, it is a perfect time to plant seeds elsewhere in our lives. Clear out the cobwebs of the season past and set new intentions for the coming months. What are you planting today? What are you calling in to grow? Comment below with what youre planning to seed and nurture this season . . . #springhassprung #equinox #fullmoon #newseason #plantingseeds #timetogrow #timetobloom #fertileground #intentions #freshstart #itsallmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #calgarynaturopath #yyc #calgary : @positivelypresent See more

Happy #internationalwomensday, today and everyday #lifteachotherup #balanceforbetter : @libbyvanderploeg

Incredible Christian Dior exhibit and launch party. Thank You and Congrats to Glenbow Museum #dior #dioryyc #glenbow #yyc #couture #launch #congratulations ... @ Glenbow Museum

Happy Lunar New Year! : taniagart #lunarnewyear #springfestival #yearofthepig #earthpig #yin #oink

http:// S H E L T E R // As temps dip below -30 in Calgary this weekend, were reminded how fortunate we are to have somewhere warm to sleep. If you have winter duds to spare or have the resources to purchase new items, please consider donating to a local shelter. Cold snaps can really deplete clothing banks, especially mitts, hats, boots and socks (both adult and child sizes). ... Thank you to the organizations and volunteers that work around the clock to keep everyone safe and warm #thankyou #merci #gracias #grazie #danke #khopkhun #arigato #todo #shukran #yyc #calgary #innfromthecold #dropincentre #calgaryalphahousesociety See more

After a day of reflecting and creating conversation to #breakthestigma, this post from @positivelypresent really resonated. Its ok. #mentalhealth #mentalwellness #mindbodysoul

Special delivery for the furriest of friends #spoiled #emptythefridge #fibrefordays #furbaby #oats #eggs #nutbutter #banana #healthyfats #homemade #naturopathicmedicine #foodasmedicine #yyc #calgary #dogs #woof

Goodbye food groups, Hello variety! Health Canada dropped a new food guide today, with updates for the first time since 2007 #abouttime. I prefer to focus on individual nutritional needs and its not exactly what Id recommend, but it is a #stepintherightdirection. ... It DOES includes tips like reading labels, paying attention to food marketing, eating with others, limiting processed foods, and .... hold the phone .... enjoying your food! You can read more and find resources at canada.com/foodguide or ask your healthcare provider how to tailor it to meet your needs. #foodasmedicine #foodguide #eatfood #nottoomuch #mostlyplants #variety #information #education #nutrition #nutrients #balance #healthcanada #naturopathic #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #yyc #calgary #calgarynaturopath

F U L L M O O N // W I N T E R S O L S T I C E tonight marks the start of winter, the longest night of the year, and a switch to the lengthening of days (hai summer). its also a full moon and a meteor shower - pretty cool beans. this solstice marks the sun at its most southernly position and has been used to guide animal cycles , sowing of crops , and monitoring of winter reserves of food... . it is a time for reflection, celebration, and rest. before you focus on what you want bring into 2019, it's important to digest what you learned in 2018 - so take some time and look back on your highlight reel of ups and downs. its all part of the process. im taking my own advice and unplugging until january to spend time with friends and family. sending you allllll the warm fuzzies, visits with the ones you make your heart happy, and wishes for a healthy and happy new year : @aronvisuals

I have 2 spaces open for visits and IVs before December is over. Dont let those benefits go to waste - youve earned them! Lets chat and set some health intentions for the New Year Send me a message, or visit my online booking link ... #useitorloseit #healthbenefits #insurance #coverage #yyc #calgary #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #nature #health #wellness #optimize #balance #healthcare #selfcare #calgarynaturopath #yychealth #calgaryhealth #medicine