15 | Body Literacy for EVERY Age and Stage with Christina Valenzuela from Pearl and Thistle

18/07/2025 1h 1min Episodio 15

Listen "15 | Body Literacy for EVERY Age and Stage with Christina Valenzuela from Pearl and Thistle"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode, Melanie Salazar speaks with Christina Valenzuela, the creator of Pearl and Thistle, about the importance of body literacy and fertility awareness. They discuss the mission of Pearl and Thistle, and the need for open conversations about menstruation and fertility. Christina emphasizes the significance of educating young girls about their bodies and the role of natural family planning in the pro-life movement. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding NFP and the importance of supporting women in understanding their cycles throughout different life stages.Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at Pearl and ThistleConnect with Christina on Instagram at @pearlandthistleGet an ADDITIONAL 15% OFF the TempDrop 8th Anniversary 20% OFF Sale with my code AFOPENTOLIFEFind healing after a traumatic birth in The Dwelling Place. Learn more at Loretto Wellness.Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through Embrace Birth Journey Build a toxin-free baby registry Takeaways:Body literacy is essential for understanding fertility and health.Conversations about menstruation should be normalized and destigmatized.Young girls need education about their bodies before their first cycle.NFP is not just about postponing pregnancy; it's about understanding one's body.The church should support NFP education beyond marriage prep.Women often feel shame or trauma related to their cycles; education can help.Proper terminology for body parts is crucial for healthy communication.Charting cycles can empower women to understand their health better.Postpartum women benefit from knowing their bodies and recognizing signs of distress.Community support is vital for women navigating fertility and body literacy.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Pearl and Thistle02:35 The Mission Behind Pearl and Thistle04:26 Breaking the Taboo: Body Literacy and Menstrual Education06:58 Understanding Body Literacy and Theology of the Body09:11 Cycle Education in Catholic and Pro-Life Spaces10:59 The Role of Body Literacy in Reducing Abortion Rates13:16 Teaching Young Girls About Cycles and Fertility15:50 Positive Conversations About Cycles and Body Parts19:16 Resources for Supporting Young Women in Cycle Education22:24 Understanding Hormonal Fluctuations and Body Literacy22:52 The Importance of Charting for Women's Health25:45 Proactive Health Management Before Marriage26:09 Building Body Literacy for Future Generations27:08 Charting as a Tool for Healing and Autonomy28:56 Understanding Cyclical Patterns and Self-Compassion29:24 The Role of NFP in Marriage Preparation31:38 Supporting Couples Beyond Marriage Prep34:25 Community Support for NFP Education36:46 NFP and Fertility Awareness39:30 Body Literacy as a Pro-Life Movement41:12 Misconceptions About NFP and Fertility Awareness43:16 Misconceptions in Body Literacy44:35 The Importance of Body Literacy in Different Life Stages47:39 Faith and Body Literacy49:14 Encouragement for Women Struggling with Body Trust54:14 Creating Space for Vulnerability55:51 Experiences in Pregnancy Resource Centers57:48 Future of Body Literacy and NFP Education

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