Birth ROCKS!

What does it mean to birth and parent consciously?  When we begin to consider starting a family the amount of information available, and the number of choices that lie before us may feel overwhelming.  Choosing to birth and parent consciously, on this site, refers to being empowered with reliable evidence based information which supports optimal mother and infant health, from a holistic perspective. 

When a woman is empowered with knowledge, support, and respect for her decision making process, birth is an experience unparalleled. The research is confirming our intuitive knowing that natrual birth has the most benefit to mother and baby. The complex relationship of hormones that are triggered in mother and infant throughout the natural birth process can not be replecated through synthetic means. It is a beautiful and astonishing process that warrants any expectant family's full investigation. That being said, medical intervention has an important place in perinatal care, and it's effect on maternal and fetal morbidity rates can not be underrated. This is where conscious birthing comes in.  Bieng informed and supported in the decisions that work best for each individual situation is vital to a positive birth experience.  Birth memories are powerful stories that shape our thoughts for the rest of our lives. My goal as a doula and educator is to help you know your birthing options, and to feel supported and fulfilled through this intense and amazing time.

Conscious parenting choices involve so many considerations. From nutriton and toileting, parent-child attachment issues, sleep considerations, and the immense world of baby consumer products, just to name but a few, the options are endless.  Staying rooted in a decision making process that is aligned with our values becomes so much more intrinsic as we become accutley aware of the new life which is taking cues from our every move.  As a mother of three, I have practised extended breastfeeding, baby wearing, elimination communication (sometimes known as diaper free), and safe bed sharing with all three children.  However, my ultimate goal as a postpartum doula is to work with your family in establishing the priorities that are important for you. The postpartum is an intense and wonderful time, and can also feel challenging as our family adjusts to all of the changes.  It is perfeclty normal to require support, in fact no one should have to do it alone.

Birthing and parenting my children has altered my life in such a profound way.  I feel immense gratitude for the experiences I have been blessed with.  I wish empowered and conscious birth for all expectant mothers.  It's time to celebrate the accomplishment of birth, in all of the forms it takes.  I am hoping to contribute to changing our consciousness about birth with my Birth ROCKS! t-shirts.  Be proud!  Visit the products page to order your t-shirt. You can also check out my blog at www.birthrocks.wordpress.com.  A work in progress, but I have shared my birth stories and personal thoughts, and look forward to yours. Art poetry and photos wanted too!  Look for the Birth ROCKS! facebook page, and become a member, I look forward to your thoughts and wisdom.