Most-Time Stay at home Mom

"Are you a stay at home mom, or do you work?" is a question commonly asked around the playground. 

I used to struggle answering and fumble around with my words.  If you're also in an undefined role relating to your kids (or anything) this may help you work it out a bit.  
 
"The weekends and most days after 2p I'm with the kids. And one date night. and when I go to the gym/yoga. Unless something comes up with work or I need a shower or "me" time." That's hard to explain to a complete stranger at the park. There's really not a word for what I am. 
 
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Don't get me wrong: I'm AN AWESOME mommy. I love my kids more than anything on the planet and would give my life for them. If you asked me to jump in front of a moving vehicle for them, I wouldn't even hesitate, I would just clarify which color vehicle to throw my body in front of and I'd be off. They are my world. I ache for them when they are not beside me, which makes me adore the time we have together even more. They are my reason for living and I wouldn't be whole without them. 
 
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Lately, I've come into a place where I feel comfortable with my answer and grounded in my unique mommy role.
 
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My response now? "I work a few hours a day for my own company and spend the rest of the time with my kids." And that's the truth. For some reason, I felt like there was something wrong or I wasn't a good mom if I wasn't being a typical stay at home mom. (mommy guilt, anyone?) That the way I'm "supposed" to be a proper mommy; to stay home all day every day with my kids. But it's just not reality and the bottom line is it's not what makes me HAPPY. 
 
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I am a BETTER mommy (wife, friend, sister, daughter, human) when I have ME time. When I get away from my mother role and contribute to the world in a larger way and put my energy into something that inspires me.
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I go to the gym 3-4 days a week and sometimes bring the kids and put them in kids club. Other times it's my start to the day and I just go on my way to work to take a shower byMYSELF, without holding an infant or explaining to a toddler why I'm shaving that and that no, it doesn't hurt. I leave the gym feeling naturally energized and motivated to take my chaotic day on with (hopefully) grace.

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 I take one evening a week for ME. Not with the hubby, just ME. Every Monday evening is Sophie night. Adi takes the kids and handles the bath and bedtime routine and my night usually consists of going to hear my favorite inspirational speaker Marianne Williamson and spending a few minutes before or afterwards at the coffee shop nearby journaling my notes and feelings. It feels GOOD to be ALIVE and a person outside of my mommy hood. Her powerful lessons and words light me up and give me inspiration for the week to come and remind me of what's truly important. As an entrepreneur and solo business owner, wife of an addiction researcher who is constantly "on" and helping his clients, a dedicated friend, sister, neighbor and citizen, I need to be lit up by others so that my flame can continue to shine bright. 
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We have two nannies that work on different days, each of them averaging around 10 hours a week. I trust them incredibly and it's nice to actually know there's another person out there that can handle your children if you can't be there and loves them as if they were their own. My nanny's thank ME for their amazing work. They think of it as a pleasure to be able to be with my kids, which only further proves the saying "it takes a village". We have several backup babysitters who we know from the gym or from friends and from sittercity.com (which I highly recommend!) We keep them on our roster and reach out anytime we need 45 minutes to just run out and grab a drink together to unwind and reconnect WITHOUT children. To have adult, uninterrupted conversations. This is key for our marriage/relationship and we are consequently better parents for those little monkey's because of it. We have a set date night of EVERY SINGLE Saturday night. It forces us to go out even if we have nothing planned (i.e. would rather stay in and watch netflix in pjs eating ice cream) and see a movie or grab a bite. 
 
ImageImageDon't get me wrong: I am with my kids A LOT. And any less wouldn't be ok with me. I spend every single morning (sometimes 5am it begins) with my kids and take Kai to school at 8:30. I'm the one to pick him up almost every day, assuming there's no work/traffic emergency. All weekend long it's me and the boys, galavanting about. Adi works a lot so unfortunately it's usually me alone with those little rabbits. When Adi is with us it's that much more magical. I pick Kai up at 3p most days and on Friday's at noon. I'm home by 2p latest almost every day to let the nanny go so I can spend some quality alone time with Leo before picking up his big brother. Then it's madness and chaos through the afternoon (playdates, park time, library, walks, etc) until the dinnertime, bath time & bed time routine. Most of it is super high quality time because I'm not so distracted by work stuff/social etc because it's out of my system from the few hours spent before.  I used cloth diapers most of the time with the boys. I breastfed. I'm creative with them and challenge them to use their imaginations. I feed them the most beautiful food on the planet and stay updated every moment the kids are away from me. I have the babysitters/nanny's write down every single thing Leo does while I'm at work- feedings/sleeping/etc so I can feel totally tuned in when we reunite. I get frustrated. Sometimes I'm short with them or lose my temper. I make mistakes. However, I love the way we do things and feel incredibly content with the current status. My only hope is I can take maybe one more hour away from work each day and give it to Leo in the upcoming months or maybe take an entire weekday away from working in the next 6 months to spend alone with my small man. It's all a balance and it's been a fun ride figuring out what feels right for me. 
ImageThere are some women out there that are just REALLY GOOD at being a stay at home momma. I tell myself they probably have more patience and are more organized. And that's okay with me! I finally feel at peace with who I am and have settled into this role of "mostly" stay at home mommy, and I'm better for it. No more guilt! (on this topic, anyway!)

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 My point? It's ok to handle things differently than the status quo. I don't consider myself to be any less of a GREAT mom because I don't spend EVERY WAKING MINUTE with my darlings. I don't judge myself for taking time to be passionate about other things in life besides my kids. And if you're a full-time working momma, kudos to you for dedicating so much effort and time to something that will make their lives better in the future. It's not easy leaving them for so many hours every single day. If you ARE a stay-at-home mom, you are a rockstar. The 100% full days I spend with my kids (Friday, Saturday, Sunday and occasionally a day during the week) I am WIPED by the end of the day. Each day is unique and beautiful and I thank God (the universe, fill in the blank) everyday for blessing me with these children and this oh so mysterious life.  

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There are some parents that are just perfectly fit to a certain way of doing things, like it's ingrained in who they are. For one of my best friends, there would be no option of her working for a single hour one day a week. For another close friend, she couldn't fathom spending time with her kids without the nanny there at the same time, just the thought overwhelms her. And all of it is perfect. Just be true to who you are and play around with different possibilities (more/less hours with a sitter/nanny/preschool/daycare/work/hobby) until you find your perfect parenting situation. Remember: parenting can exist on a spectrum, it isn't all or none. Your perfect balance is out there, just be open and flexible, honoring your truth. 

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Comments (5):

WELL in L.A. on

Beautiful. You are a wonderful momma and your boys and hubs know it. Mom or not everyone can walk away with the advice to take a ‘date night’ for themselves. In a busy world it’s all too easy to always be tuned in and paying attention to everyone else’s needs and wants. Finding the quiet, solace and peace with yourself is so so so necessary! xo my love!

Philosophie Mama on

you are SO sweet, Alana! I DO get moments of silence because I have created the space to! so important for all of us. thank you for your kindness!

Philosophie Mama on

thanks, Kate! You are going to be AN AMAZING momma and I can’t wait to be there for playdates.. both with kids AND by ourselves with our girlfriends and a glass of wine. thank you for reading. And YES: it’s all about balance in EVERYTHING isn’t it?

alanabana2 on

I feel like such a stalker because I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!! I’m not even close to becoming a mommy yet, but you definitely give me a lot of insight of what it will be like (even though i know its utterly unfathomable!). Thank you so much for sharing, you and you’re family are so beautiful and such an inspiration. It’s crazy how far a little powder can go! Keep up the great work Sophie, and enjoy those moment of silences when you get them!

katemcclafferty on

Sweet, lovely, amazing Sophie…this post was really powerful. I’m not even a mother yet but it resonated with me. In a nutshell it’s about finding balance and being honest with yourself about what YOU need to be the very best YOU. I thank you for sharing your story. xx

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Sophie’s 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are a beautiful way to celebrate the people in your life. One way to spread a little more love, intention and compassion this holiday season is to share what has been transformational and meaningful to your own life.


This gift guide was created to help you slow down, evaluate and look at the people in your life for what they mean to you and who they are instead of just another name of your list to check out. Here are my top picks for gifts for your loved ones.


If you have friends and family that are ready to step into their life, transform their whole health, and elevate their well-being, then we want to help you find the PERFECT Philosophie goodie to gift them.

Give the gifts that help spread love, wellness and ABUNDANCE this holiday season. 

 

Philosophie Lover’s Bundle (on subscription)
Pranamat (code: SOPHIE)


 



 



 

Alive Water (delivery service)


 



 

Harry Potter™ Faux Book Lockbox from Pottery Barn (or any of the Pottery Barn teen or kid collection)


Adapto – what? The Philosophie Behind the Adaptogens in our Products

Philosophie Superfood + Adaptogen Blends

Adaptogens are Mother’s Nature natural medicine. Adaptogens are powerful little plants and herbs that have literally withstood natural disasters and bring their same ADAPTIVE qualities into our bodies. Philosophie babe, Marissa Cohen, shares the beauty and power of adaptogens and how they show up in our superfoods!

Maybe adaptogens are a staple in your diet, or maybe you’re not sure how to pronounce most of them. Adaptogenic herbs and medicinal mushrooms have gained significant attention in recent years, and for good reason. Despite what your social media feed may lead you to believe, these powders are far from a recent trend. Adaptogens have been used for thousands of years in eastern medicine practices such as Traditional Chinese Medicine to help restore the body to balance. 

Each one of the Philosophie Superfood Blends contains potent, responsibly-sourced adaptogens. From maca in Berry Bliss to mesquite in Green Dream and reishi mushroom powder in Cacao Magic, these blends are designed to nourish you on a cellular level, beyond helping you meet your daily macronutrient requirements. 

Philosophie Superfood Blends

What are Adaptogens?

The term “adaptogen” was first defined by a Russian pharmacologist to mean “agents which help an organism counteract any adverse effects of a physical, chemical or biological stressor by generating nonspecific resistance.”* For example, the cacao and reishi mushroom in Cacao Magic help the body achieve homeostasis and fight fatigue. If you are feeling depleted, they can deliver energy, but if you are overstimulated they can have a calming effect. Cacao and reishi specifically have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are specifically beneficial for helping the body cope with physical and mental stress.

Chocolate Cacao Strawberries

Adaptogens for Stress Relief

The psychological benefits of adaptogens make them especially useful in today’s world. An estimated 31.1% of Americans experience anxiety at some point in their lives.* Anxiety disorders range in their intensity, but, when left unaddressed, they can become crippling or lead to more severe mental and physical illnesses.

Using adaptogens is a great way to manage stress from the outside world and minimize the effects of the cortisol stress response in the body. One study found that consistently taking adaptogens for 60 days decreased stress in participants by 28%.* Furthermore, other trials have shown the herbs ability to combat depression, lower blood pressure, promote sleep and cure sleep disorders like insomnia, and treat adrenal fatigue.


Adaptogens for Brain Health and Depression

Adaptogens can boost cognitive functioning in several ways, which explains why it is often used in patients with depression and Alzheimer's disease. Adaptogens boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in emotional and mood regulation. Low serotonin levels are linked to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.* By helping achieve adequate serotonin levels, adaptogens can bring relief to those suffering from mood disorders. Furthermore, they help regenerate brain cells and reconstruct synapses, the never endings where cells communicate with one another. As a result, the ability to learn, memorize, and recall information is enhanced.

Superfood Blends

Adaptogens for Hormone Balance and Fertility

All three blends contain organic maca powder. Maca is a root that is dried and ground into a fine powder. It has a rich, malty taste that helps make the Superfood Blends so delicious. But it’s not just your taste buds that have you craving your daily dose of Philosophie products – your hormones want their hit from maca, as well. Maca helps balance hormones by supporting the endocrine system, making it a natural aphrodisiac that increases sex drive and supports fertility. And while most energy enhancers like caffeine deplete the adrenal glands, maca supports the adrenals and stabilizes your blood sugar to give long-lasting stamina. Not to mention that it contains a host of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for reproduction, including calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and iron.* 



The beauty of the Philosophie products is that they are curated to give your unique body exactly what it needs through the use of the adaptogens. They work their magic on their own or in synchrony with each other when combined. Check out our recipe page for hundreds of ideas to begin nourishing your beautiful body, mind, and spirit.

Philosophie Smoothies

Recources(*):

http://www.womenlivingnaturally.com/articlepage.php?id=69

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23439798

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/kc/serotonin-facts-232248

https://nootropicsexpert.com/nootropics-glossary/#dopamine

https://www.floliving.com/how-to-use-maca-to-treat-infertility/

 

What are your favorite benefits of adaptogens and how do you like to incorporate them into your diet? Share with us on the comments below and connect with us on Instagram!

Superfood Chocolate Bark

Superfood Chocolate Bark

We’re in LOVE with this dark chocolate superfood bark recipe made with Cacao Magic, Coconut Magic and Rich Nuts Sprouted Cashews making this a mood-boosting, tasty, sweet & savory treat!


You can turn any recipe into a nutrient-dense, balancing meal by adding superfoods and high-quality organic foods. All foods are not created equal, so even when it comes to choosing nuts make sure to source a brand that is raw, organic and activated like Pine Nuts. 


This superfood bark is super easy to make and can last for a whole week. Clean ingredients, energizing and mood-balancing superfoods and no added sugar makes this dreamy treat good for your body too!

Philosophie & Rich Nuts

Gather This:

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

2 tbsp Cacao Magic

2 tbsp Coconut Magic

2 tbsp melted coconut oil

Pinch of pink sea salt

⅓ cup Rich Nuts Savory Sage Sprouted Cashews, roughly chopped


Do This:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Once the chocolate is melted, add Cacao Magic, Coconut Magic, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of pink sea salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a thin layer.

Sprinkle the sprouted cashews evenly over the chocolate bark, gently pressing them down to make sure they stick.

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate bark to set. Once the chocolate is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and break it into smaller pieces or irregular chunks. ENJOY!

Chocolate Bark

 

What treats are you making with your superfoods? Share below!

Simple Steps to Let Go of Stress

Stress Less with Philosophie

Stress is pretty much unavoidable. Between traffic, busy schedules, and the many responsibilities that come along with the various roles each of us play from parent, spouse, business-owner or employee, it’s no wonder that we often find ourselves dealing with high levels of tension, either mentally, emotionally, or physically.

As natural as it is to feel this stress, if we allow it to become a constant in our lives, it can lead to a variety of negative effects including headaches, digestive trouble, elevated blood pressure, pain in muscles and joints, problems with sleep, fatigue, and mood disturbances. That doesn’t mean, however, that you’re doomed to suffer if you experience stress in your day-to-day life. Investing time in soothing and balancing practices can help you release the build-up of stress from your body and your mind.

There are tons of way to let stress go, and different people will find that some methods are more effective for them than others. If you find yourself struggling with stress on the regular, try out some of these simple stress-relieving practices to feel a greater sense of ease and peace in your daily life!

 

Sophie + Son

De-stress in the Kitchen

Cooking can be a wonderful way to relieve stress because it can help you focus your attention on something positive and nourishing. Many of the things that you do to prep a meal, snack, or treat involves some sort of repetitive process like chopping, stirring, or washing produce. These actions have a simple rhythm to them that can be soothing and almost meditative. Baking, in particular, is a great kitchen activity for releasing tension because the unique sensations of working with dough and batters with your hands can get you out of your head and back into your body very quickly. Not sure what to make? Try your hand at some delicious baked goods, like our Superfood Collagen + Cacao Date Nut Loaf Cake

Superfood Collagen + Cacao Date Nut Loaf Cake

Just Say "Om"

Developing a steady meditation practice is one of the very best things you can do to let go of stress in your life. It cultivates a deep inner peace and the ability to let distressing thoughts go instead of circling them obsessively. There are tons of different types of meditation practices, but even taking just a few minutes a day to sit quietly and focus on your breath can have dramatically positive impacts.

 

Spend Time with Friends

There are some people that always just leave you feeling refreshed and more positive and those are the people you want to spend time with when you start to feel the pressures of life building. Whether you choose to talk about what is troubling you, or you prefer to focus on what’s going on in their life, spending time with a grounded friend can help you get perspective on the issues that you’re struggling with.

 

Time with Friends Philosophie Image

 

 Have a Dance Party

This may sound like a silly suggestion, but I dare you to try it. Next time you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, step away from the source of the stress for a few minutes, turn on your favorite beats, and rock out. It may not feel entirely natural at first, but if you allow yourself to connect with the music and really let your body express any pent up feelings through your movements, you just might find that you can completely turn your mood around in just a matter of minutes!

 

Get Out in Nature

Another thing that can help you get perspective is getting out of the hustle and in to nature. There’s something about the simplicity and beauty of the natural world that reminds us that our ultimate purpose in life is to simply be the best us we can be. All of the added stresses and strains of modern life feel far away when you’re out on a long hike or floating in the ocean’s waves, and that little bit of space can help make stressful situations seem much more manageable.

Sophie Jaffe at the beach

 

Drink Water

Drink your water! Our lives can be so full, chaotic, and beautiful that sometimes stress, fear, worry or anxiety arises because we aren’t caring for our physical needs. A big glass of cold water can be SO healing. We love ours with a little bit of sunshine. What about you?

Sunshine Drops

 

Strawberry Banana Green Smoothie

Strawberry Banana Green Smoothie

When your kiddos (or you!) are craving something sweet, but still want to sneak in some nutrients THIS is the smoothie you need. 


It’s loaded with a blend of coconut water giving it a touch of sweetness from the coconut, banana to make it thick promotes healthy digestion, greens, strawberries, and both Philosophie Berry Bliss (vitamin C + plant protein) and Green Dream (iron support, energy + plant protein)! Another plus about this drink is that it really alkaline's the system and it is incredibly cleansing for the system.


You can take away the banana for less sugar or add more to make it sweeter. You'll still get the beautiful benefits of all the superfoods and greens.

Green Superfood Smoothie

Gather This:

Heaping spoonfuls of Berry Bliss + Green Dream

Spoonful of Cosmic Elixir (collagen + adaptogens!)

1-2 tbsp Coconut Magic or coconut butter

8 oz coconut water 

Handful of strawberries (tip: keep the stems on for extra greens!)

Banana

Handful of greens (we used spinach)


Do This:

Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender then pour into your favorite glass and top with bee pollen and a scoop of Culina yogurt alternative. ENJOY!

Strawberry Banana Green Superfood Smoothie

7 Health Goals to Set for Yourself This Year

Philosophie Superfoods

People often think an intention or resolution has to be a giant life change, but we believe in keeping things simple and setting attainable goals. Let’s start to think of this time as another opportunity to check in with ourselves and manifest our dream lives–one small, loving step at a time.


What did we accomplish last year? How did we feel defeated? What did we LEARN about ourselves? What do we want to take into the next chapter, and what do we want to leave behind?


Let this year be all about you and your authentic self. The very best YOU can be.

Cosmic Elixir + Tarot Cards

If you need a little inspiration for your health and wellbeing this year, we have you covered. We’re sharing 7 health goal examples to motivate you but your health is all about YOU. Find what works for you. Take the habits you’re doing already and ADD to them to more align with how you want to feel in life. Do the things that feel GOOD to you.


DRINK MORE WATER

Swapping out sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks for water is a great first step to better health. Elevate your water with Liquid Chlorophyll Sunshine Drops for better digestion, more energy and detoxification.


Philosophie Sunshine Drops

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Sleep is SO important to our mind, body and soul and deep, restorative sleep should be an absolute non-negotiable but often gets pushed to the back of your mind. Sleep is connected to so much in our body including our eating habits. Studies have shown that those who are well-rested have better portion control and will select healthier food options than those who are sleep-deprived! READ THIS POST for our tips to better sleep!


CLEANSE & RESET YOUR SPACE

Clutter in your physical space can create clutter in your mind, making you unable to concentrate on the things that actually matter in the present moment instead you’re focusing on the chores that need to be done, the work piling up or that box downstairs that was yet to be put away. Magic happens as you clear out the clutter that has been weighing you down mentally, physically and emotionally.


TAKE TIME FOR SELF CARE

Make sure to put yourself first by practicing self-care. Doing so allows you to take intentional time away from stress so you can be more resilient when you’re facing challenges. Know what your boundaries are and set functional limits in order to operate at capacity in all of the areas of your life.


Tarot Cards & Self Care

GET TO KNOW WHAT WORKS FOR YOUR BODY - INTUITIVE EATING!

Listen to your body instead of all the nutrition noise because you can. Why let your power go to the diet industry when you are lucky enough to be able to give your body what it is truly craving on a spiritual and cellular level? READ THIS POST for our tips on clean eating and attaining more nourishment.


UNPLUG MORE

Putting away your phone or laptop isn’t just good for your mental health, it’s good for your physical health as well. Download our Digital Detox Guide with tips for your own digital detox including a letter from Sophie Jaffe, a meditation ritual, and 5-minute check-in practice.


EMBRACE AGING

Being able to embrace yourself will help you become stronger. Our #1 secret to aging gracefully? SUPERFOODS, of course! Beauty starts within and when you load your body up with nutrient-dense, high-vibrational SUPER foods, your body just loves them. Our superfood blends contain highly potent ingredients like reishi, spirulina, goji berry and collagen to support longevity, skin elasticity, and vitality.

Sophie Jaffe

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