We are what we eat.
It is a concept dating back to ancient civilizations. And it is the time-honored philosophy at the heart of Agni’s mission. Taking its name from sacred Sanskrit and translating literally to mean ‘digestive fire’, Agni hones in on the nurturing and healing power of food. And underscores the importance of being exacting about how we nourish ourselves, wherever we are on our fertility journey. Agni is a women-led food healing company in Berkeley, CA that creates delicious, nutrient-rich cookies, teas, and seasonings to support women’s health. Developed with their Medical Advisory Board using 100% natural ingredients and a holistic, inclusive food healing approach, Agni’s healing foods are specifically designed to support women with postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, hormone balance, conception, and pregnancy.
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And while all bodies need nourishment to thrive, bodies in bloom or in recovery need special care, Mama Glow Doula Shandrea Gilchrist shares how Agni has been supporting her healing and renewal to begin her fertility journey.
Mama Glow: Where are you on your fertility journey?
Shandrea Gilchrist: My journey is in a self-nourishing stage right now. After a recent pregnancy loss, I have been devastated. I’m still learning to be patient with my body as it heals and prepares for the next phase.
MG: How are you nourishing yourself during this time?
SG: I’m currently being focusing on being mindful and remembering to treat myself with my love during my time of menstruation. Although menstrual cycles can be dreadful for numerous reasons, it’s also a constant reminder that I am not pregnant which can be a sad reminder. Flowing into yoga or walking in nature in the evening time has helped stimulate natural oxytocin and emotional relief. Simple small acts like this or treating myself with the Double Chocolate Chip Cookies from Agni is nice.
MG: How is Agni enhancing your self-care practice?
SG: My Agni routine reminds me to be a bit more mindful. I love the Tulsi Cinnamon Tea with mineral-rich nettles, ashwagandha, which is an adaptogen that helps the body handle life stress, and Shatavari, which helps level out the hormones and brings the body back into balance. The tea is not only soothing after a long day but a great reminder to take a break mid-day. The ashwagandha helps me mellow out after stressful work days or dealing with toddler tantrums.
MG: Which box(es) are you currently enjoying?
SG: I currently have the Fertility Box
MG: What are you enjoying most about the fertility box?
SG: The monthly subscription has been super-efficient and convenient, and I love how the fertility package has a nourishing item that I can enjoy for the entire month. I also feel as though Agni packages the right amount of items to regulate my hormones, and help me welcome fertility with ease. I appreciate it because its exactly what I need right now.
MG: Have you noticed any differences, like shifts your mood, or energy levels in the past few months?
SG: I have noticed my mood has shifted drastically. As I am more mindful of my cycle and hormonal moods, I’ve made conscious efforts to treat myself with more grace around these times. And that could look like taking supplements to help with stress or practicing breathing techniques during chaotic life moments.
MG: What does slowing down look like for you?
SG: I’m already a pretty mindful person, but slowing down for me shows up when I genuinely engage in conversation with people. Also carving out time to properly play, do a craft, or a fun activity like balloon fights. My inner child loves this for my child and me.
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Agni is a women-led food healing company in Berkeley, CA that creates delicious, nutrient-rich cookies, teas, and seasonings to support women’s health. Developed with their Medical Advisory Board using 100% natural ingredients and a holistic, inclusive food healing approach, Agni’s healing foods are specifically designed to support women with postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, hormone balance, conception, and pregnancy.
