Podcasts about healing after birth

We often think of trauma as a deeply personal experience, shaped by our childhood, relationships, and emotional wounds. But what if some of our deepest pain didn't start with us? What if trauma is embedded in the very systems we're born into - our medical institutions, cultural ideologies, and societal norms? In today's episode, we're joined by Dr. Tayla Shanaye, somatic therapist, scholar, and expert in birth trauma and structural oppression. Tayla joins Elisabeth and Jennifer for a powerful exploration of how ideologies like white supremacy, patriarchy, and ableism don't just shape policies, they live in our bodies, shaping how we birth, connect, and heal. Together, they discuss the medicalization of childbirth, the systemic invalidation of birthing bodies, and how trauma is passed down generationally through embodied experiences. This episode invites us to look at birth as more than a physical event, it's a moment of transformation, a portal, and for many, a site of trauma that is rarely acknowledged. Tayla also shares deeply personal stories of pregnancy, birth, and healing, highlighting the need for preparation, integration, and community-based support to create a culture where somatic safety and agency are the norm. You'll hear how nervous system awareness, collective ritual, and somatic abolitionism can radically change how we relate to our bodies and to each other. If you've ever felt broken by birth, silenced in your experience, or curious about how deep healing begins at the structural level, this episode is for you. Topics discussed in this episode: ● The medicalization of birth and its traumatic impact ● Why trauma is systemic—not just personal ● How ideologies like racism and patriarchy are embodied ● The role of the nervous system in healing generational trauma ● Somatic healing and reclaiming bodily agency ● Historical roots of obstetric violence and experimentation ● The missing rituals of birth preparation and integration ● How voice, safety, and co-regulation shape our healing ● The vision of community-led, embodied care ● Why embodiment is key to creating real culture Ready to reclaim your voice, your safety, and your power? Join the Neurosomatic Voice Activation Course: https://brookewolfe.com/traumarewired   Learn more about Dr. Tayla Shanaye's work at: https://www.embodytherevolution.com Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the fall cohort now: https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com Find Trauma Rewired on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TraumaRewired Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846 FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use our exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired Trauma Rewired podcast is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear. We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If someone's life is in danger, immediately call 911. We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available. We don't warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It's very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren't responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don't verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs. We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis. Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved. We've done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at traumarewired@gmail.com All rights in our content are reserved

Fam, this one's a ride. We're diving deep into what it really means to RECEIVE—love, support, healing, and your own power.My guest, Dr. Rhea Mehta—scientist, healer & co-founder of Aste Wellness—opens up about healing after birth trauma, the hidden truths about women's wellness, and reclaiming Ayurvedic wisdom to truly nourish ourselves.We talk burnout, the beauty industry's dark side, and how reconnecting with your roots might be the medicine you've been missing.If you've been feeling depleted or disconnected—this is the conversation you need.

Questions answered this episode: 1. I recently gave birth to our first baby. My plan going in was to have a natural, unmedicated birth. There's something beautiful, especially from a Catholic perspective, about the pain of childbirth that brings new life into the world, a reflection of Christ's suffering on the cross. Many of my Catholic friends have had this type of birth, and I came across a lot of women on social media who advocate for this type of birth, saying, "Your body was made for this." This was my plan, but of course, nothing goes according to plan, especially when it comes to labor. I ended up getting an epidural and going on Pitocin after a stalled 24-hour labor. I was really disappointed, and when I tell others about my labor and how I got an epidural, I feel a sense of shame and guilt that I took the easy way out, that I couldn't do it without medication, that I did something wrong in not allowing my body to birth on its own. Now I'm one of those moms who had a hospital medicated birth and not a natural birth. Can theology of the body help me come to terms with my medicated birth and see the beauty of my body and what it can do even in this type of birth? 2. If you read this, I am desperate. My wife is so hurt, and I do not know what to do because I'm the one who hurt her. Years of pornography use coming out, facing up to it. We're trying to heal, but I just don't know what to do. I don't know who to talk to about this in my real life. I'm incredibly angry with my parents for not helping me when I was younger. I'm angry with myself for not fessing up to it sooner and being afraid to face it. I stopped masturbation years ago, but it was only more recently that I truly began to be honest with my wife about what was going on in the past. And the hurt is so painful. We have a 2-year-old and another on the way. Please pray for our family. Bless you. 3. My sister purchased your TOB intro video series and has since facilitated the course, bringing it to over 100 people. I've started reading all about John Paul II. He's amazing, and we'd both love to learn theology of the body in more depth and continue to spread it to others. I purchased a few TOB books to circulate among friends. However, it's quite pricey to buy books and to seek studying TOB courses ourselves. So I'm wondering whether you ever have sponsorship available for study or discounts for buying bulk resources such as books. I'm especially thinking about my sister as she's very intelligent and passionate about TOB, as well as being a gifted coordinator. I think she's seriously considering and praying about getting involved in TOB ministry for the future. This year she'll be busy completing her theology bachelor's degree. I know she'd love to hear if you have any advice on where she should complete future study, or if there are any courses which are on the cheaper side of things she could fundraise for. If nothing else, be encouraged by the ripple effects of your ministry. God's brought it all the way to us in New Zealand, and a large group of Protestants and cradle Catholics are captivated by the beauty of TOB, catalyzing them to seek out the Catholic faith with a genuine excitement to know the good news. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II's beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

Getting off of birth control can feel scary when you're not ready for children. Can you prevent pregnancy successfully without the pill? Grace faced these fears and questions as she and her husband made the decision to ditch the Pill after she felt angry, anxious, and emotionally spent after a year on the lowest dose of birth control. Today, she shares her story of how God met her in her healing process and provided a "natural birth control" alternative that honored who she was as a person, honored her marriage, and honored her cycles. I hope you enjoy hearing her story! NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences.FUN FACT: This episode is available on YouTube! Check it out @wovenfertility on YouTubeGUEST BIO:  Grace is: From Murfreesboro, TN now living in Jackson, TNStudied Public Relations at Union University Working in non profit industry as a Community Engagement ManagerEnjoys spending time with my husband Quinn, traveling, and playing pickleball! SHOW NOTES: Interested in learning about the Creighton Model System? You're in the right place! Register for Creighton Introductory Session: Register here for our next Introductory SessionLooking for ways to implement fertility awareness into your life and faith? Check out out most helpful resources: Substack Newsletter (free)Website Resources (free)Would you like to watch this episode on YouTube? Check out our video recorded episodes here: Woven Natural Fertility Care YouTubeHave a question or want to give us feedback? Send us a textSupport the showThis podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.

What does it take to truly heal after a challenging birth? Listen in and find out in this powerful conversation with Jennifer Summerfeldt. Click here for the show notes and extra resources. Our birth experience, how we came to the world, and how, if able, we give birth to our own have a lasting impact on our overall well-being. What We Talked About: Midwifery and alternative birth options Overcoming the fear induced by mainstream pregnancy advice Understand different birth paradigms Choosing birth based on values The emergence of free birth The difference between a disappointing birth experience and birth trauma How birth trauma impacts both the body and mind How the nervous system reacts during traumatic events like childbirth Identifying postpartum challenges Things to Remember “Parenting is about learning how to listen to that guiding principle that resides in all of us as a human being.” “It's important that you understand what that birth paradigm includes, that they're motivated by fear, litigation, and money, and to manage and control and take charge of your experience.” “When you hire a professional or registered midwife, most often you have the option to give birth at home, in a birthing center or a hospital.” “Any choice out of fear is usually a bad recipe.” “You can have a disappointing birth experience that is not traumatic.” “It's not about controlling the outside world. It's about knowing that there's a way for us to ride the waves of life, to ride the stressors of life and it doesn't have to be traumatic.” “Rest in the role of motherhood.” - Jennifer Summerfeldt   Click here for the show notes and extra resources.

In this episode, Jennifer introduced her unique therapy map approach to healing. Christine and Jennifer began exploring the neurological needs of someone in the postpartum window but had more to discuss. Today, they will further examine birth as an initiatory experience and postpartum as 'the return.' Specifically, Christine and Jennifer want to look more closely at how Western culture tends not to pause during initiations like birth to examine what is happening below the surface. Jennifer believes this contributes greatly to imbalances in mental health. Their conversation will harness the value in these profound life moments and the process of growth. Jennifer Summerfeldt is the founder of ASK Therapy and author of Healing After Birth. She is a mother, a therapist, a writer and a mentor. Jennifer's organization is a virtual counseling clinic dedicated to providing trauma, polyvagal and childbirth informed support to mothers navigating the entire perinatal continuum. Their goal is to contribute to the dialogue around maternal mental health, break stigmas and offer guidance to those who may be navigating similar journeys. Christine expressed excitement to continue diving deeper with Jennifer into her unique perspective on healing and understanding the postpartum experience. She thanked listeners for joining and said she knows they will find the discussion insightful. Learn More about Jennifer's beautiful work in this world: ⁠Writer|Therapist|Guide | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree⁠ Are you feeling the call to know more about Conscious Postpartum Care? Learn about our programs at ⁠⁠www.sacredwindowstudies.com⁠⁠ Follow us on Instagram at @‌sacredwindowstudies Facebook at @‌AyurvedaForPostpartum Join our ⁠⁠Facebook Group⁠⁠ Reach out! ⁠⁠Schedule a time with Christine⁠⁠ to find out if our programs are a good fit for you! Here is the ⁠⁠link⁠⁠ to out free class

It's not uncommon for NICU mothers to experience a traumatic birth, and therefore also process the grief that comes after our births don't go the way we had always dreamed. We wanted to have a conversation with an expert who specializes in healing after birth trauma, and we are honored to have Kayleigh Summers of The Birth Trauma Mama as our guest today!In this episode we cover:What is the definition of birth trauma?What does lifelong healing look like after birth trauma and where can we begin?We hope this conversation affirms that NICU mama, healing is lifelong. No matter where you are on your healing journey after a traumatic birth, know that this sisterhood and resources like The Birth Trauma Mama exist to support you along the way.To get connected with DNM:Website | Private Facebook Group | InstagramKayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. She uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. You can find her @thebirthtrauma_mama.To get connected with Kayleigh:Website | Instagram | TikTokThis podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Sacred Window Podcast. I'm Christine Eck and I'm excited to be joined today by Jennifer Summerfeldt to discuss her unique approach to mapping out a mother's healing journey. Jennifer is the founder of Ask Therapy and author of Healing After Birth. Jennifer's own birthing experiences ignited her passion for supporting mothers in their journey. She has trained as a holistic doula, midwife and counselor to provide trauma and childbirth informed support. Her goal is to contribute to the dialogue around maternal mental health and offer guidance to those navigating similar experiences. We'll dive into Jennifer's therapy map approach, which aims to guide clients from a place of wounding to wisdom. She emphasizes understanding the mind, body, emotions and spirit as interconnected systems impacted by limiting beliefs. I'm looking forward to our discussion on finding the way up and out of perinatal mood disorders. Thank you for joining us today, Jennifer. Jennifer Summerfeldt is the founder of ASK Therapy and author of Healing After Birth. She is a mother, a therapist, a writer and a mentor. Jennifer's organization is a virtual counseling clinic dedicated to providing trauma, polyvagal and childbirth informed support to mothers navigating the entire perinatal continuum. Their goal is to contribute to the dialogue around maternal mental health, break stigmas and offer guidance to those who may be navigating similar journeys. Learn More about Jennifer's beautiful work in this world: https://linktr.ee/j.summerfeldt Are you feeling the call to know more about Conscious Postpartum Care? Learn about our programs at ⁠www.sacredwindowstudies.com⁠ Follow us on Instagram at @‌sacredwindowstudies Facebook at @‌AyurvedaForPostpartum Join our ⁠Facebook Group⁠ Reach out! ⁠Schedule a time with Christine⁠ to find out if our programs are a good fit for you! Here is the ⁠link⁠ to out free class

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of the nervous system in birth and birth trauma with our special guest, Jennifer Summerfeldt. Jennifer is a Certified Canadian Counsellor with an MA in Counseling Psychology, the Chief Empathy Officer of ASK Therapy and JS Coaching, and a passionate advocate for trauma-informed care and maternal mental health. With over two decades of experience in maternal health, childbirth, and psychological studies, Jennifer sheds light on the importance of regulating the nervous system and finding harmony during the perinatal journey. She has authored two self-published books, "Healing After Birth" and "Midwifery for The Soul." Join us as we explore the transformative power of therapy, connection, and co-regulation in nurturing emotional well-being during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the nervous system, therapy, and co-regulation with Jennifer Summerfeldt. Discover how regulating the nervous system can lead to harmony and healing during the perinatal journey. Jennifer's insights will challenge your perspective on self-regulation and highlight the vital role of connection in our socially driven species. Join us on this profound exploration of perinatal health and wellness. Resources from the Episode www.therapyformoms.ca www.flowingfears.com www.nsidoulatraining.com Therapy For Moms Podcast https://anchor.fm/therapyformoms [Nuerosception](https://khironclinics.com/blog/polyvagal-theory-neuroception-the-fundament-of-feeling/#:~:text=Conceived by Dr Stephen Porges,the physiological responses it causes.) Dr. Dan Siegel > Parenting From The Inside Out and Whole Brain Child [Healing After Birth: Navigating Your Emotions After A Difficult Childbirth (2018)](https://www.amazon.com/Healing-After-Birth-Navigating-Childbirth/dp/1999497201#:~:text=Reclaim your birth story%2C deepen,or years it has been.) Midwifery For The Soul: Awaken to Your Fierce Feminine in the Depths of Darkness and Trauma (2019) Dr. Sarah Buckley Dr. Michel Odent Access your FREE Guide on mastering 5 Techniques to Conquer the Fear of Birth. As a bonus, discover a collection of mindfulness tools curated to quell anxiety and fear during pregnancy and childbirth. ⁠Grab Your Guide⁠. Live long, loud, and in prosperity-dear members of the "RebelBirth Crew."  Until we cross paths again, thrive unapologetically! ⁠Instagram⁠  ⁠Website⁠  ⁠Submit a Topic⁠  ⁠Be My Guest⁠ Discounts: ⁠NEEDED Prenatal Supplements:⁠ ⁠FRUITOFTHEWOMB⁠ for 20% off one-time purchase orders or the first three months of the one-month subscription option.  ⁠FullWell Prenatal & Fertility Supplements⁠ Use Code FRUITOFTHEWOMBBIRTH for 10% off ⁠Christian Hypnobirthing Course⁠ Use Code: ANGEL for 20% off the course ⁠MotherLove Herbal Products⁠ Use code Wombbirth15 for 15% off --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebirthrebel/support

Kim Thomas, CEO of Birth Trauma Association UK, joins me to talk about Birth Trauma Awareness Week, the assumptions society places on the birthing parent and the partner in recovery and postpartum,  the concept of healing through a both/and mentality, and that healing is still possible for those who have not been given the space to heal and process a birth trauma no matter how many years have passed.In this episode you will hear:- what Birth Trauma Association UK is and how it's started and grown-  BTA UK support offerings for the birth trauma community- Birth Trauma Awareness week theme of healing #helpingmeheal- healing the family unit vs. the individual- the impact of birth trauma on the family relationships- survivor/partner guilt- navigating birthdays after birth trauma- making space for healing no matter how long ago your trauma occurredGuest Bio:Kim Thomas is our CEO at The Birth Trauma Association UK. She is a freelance journalist specializing in healthcare, social care, and education. In 2013 she published Birth Trauma, a guide aimed at helping women experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder after a difficult birth.You can find The Birth Trauma Association here or on Instagram @birth_trauma_association_UKFor more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @birthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Episode 11: Casey's Birth Stories: Unplanned C-Sections and Healing After Birth. Join us as Casey Backus, one of our founding members shares her infertility story and journey to motherhood and the birth stories of her sons. Casey's first birth started with a 37-week induction due to preeclampsia, a prenatal complication, that ended in an unplanned cesarean birth. Casey prepared for her second pregnancy for a VBAC, a vaginal birth after a cesarean, but found herself in a similar situation at the end of this pregnancy with preeclampsia and induction. During this labor, Casey chooses another cesarean birth after over a day of labor. Casey shares how supporting other c-section moms in their postpartum recovery with scar mobilization has helped her heal from her own journeys. In this episode: Preeclampsia: What is it? VBAC or Repeat C-Section: Choosing the Best Birth Path for You VBAC: Top 4 Tips C-Section Scar Mobilization Recovering After a C-Section How we can support your postpartum: C-Section Scar Mobilization Course and Live Webinars C-Section Recovery Fitness Program VBAC Prep Course Learn more with Casey here. Check out our ⁠⁠website here⁠⁠, our ⁠⁠Instagram here⁠⁠, and our ⁠⁠Facebook here⁠⁠! This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey.  ⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.

ASK CAROLINA ANYTHINGDid you get the baby you wanted but not the birth experience you dreamed of? Ah, that is the story of so many women in the United States who birthed their babies but endured trauma as a result. In this episode, Carolina explains what birth trauma is and how to cope with it. Also, she shares deep vulnerable truths about her personal birth trauma and how she overcame it.Reiki was her key to success and she explains how this form of energy healing can serve you in your postpartum and birth trauma.What you'll learn: 2:05 Can Reiki help heal birth trauma?5:24 How to handle birth trauma6:00 Carolina's birth story12:43 A lot of things are out of control with birthing14:30 How Carolina's birth trauma changed her fully17:12 How Reiki helps with birth traumaLet's connect!The Carolina Sotomayor Podcast is brought to you by Carolina Sotomayor and the Fertility Foundation.Carolina Sotomayor is an Expert Womb Healer who helps women conceive by removing physiological blockages with Reiki. She is the host of the Carolina Sotomayor Podcast, a show that covers everything from fertility to postpartum to motherhood, and the creator of Fertility Foundation Collective, an online membership that helps women heal at their own pace to boost their fertility.Carolina has served over 500 women from around the world to heal. She is passionate about helping women create their families. As a result, there are over 60 reiki babies in the world. Carolina Sotomayor Reiki: https://carolinasotomayor.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolinasotomayorreiki/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarolinasotomayor/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecarolinasotomayorYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuzB6fQOHuRGyLm92M3qT0gPinterest: Support the showLiked this episode? Share it with a friend. Love the show? Write a 5-star review (even just one sentence helps us keep bringing you the content you want to hear.) Want to get pregnant? Connect to your spirit and heal your fertility blockages inside the Make A Baby Membership. Try it for FREE! DOWNLOAD HERE our free Womb to Dream Connection Sleep Meditation: Connecting to Your Spirit Baby! Connect with Carolina: Website TikTok Instagram Pinterest Facebook DISCLAIMER: This episode is not a substitute for professional medical care but aims at relaxation and stress reduction to support natural healing. Reiki complements, never replaces, medical care. Carolina is not a licensed healthcare provider; always seek appropriate professional help for physical and mental health. Individual results may vary.

You're in for a treat today! In this episode I speak with renowned birth trauma specialist, Jennifer Summerfeldt. Jennifer holds an MA in Counseling Psychology (MACP) and is a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC). She is the CEO (Chief Empathy Officer) and Founder of ASK Therapy for Moms. With over 20 years of experience within the fields of maternal health, childbirth and psychology studies, she uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on trauma-informed care, maternal mental health, and healing in general. Today we discuss how Jennifer came into the birth healing role, and what she perceives to be the complex underpinnings of the pervasive birth trauma that exists within our current culture of birth. She shares a little of her own experiences, and the paradigm within which she works in helping others to find healing after a traumatic birth. Here is how you can connect with Jennifer and her work: Websites > www.therapyformoms.ca > www.flowingfears.com > www.nsidoulatraining.com Podcast > Therapy For Moms (Formally known as Healing After Birth) https://anchor.fm/therapyformoms Books > Healing After Birth: Navigating Your Emotions After A Difficult Childbirth (2018) > Midwifery For The Soul: Awaken to Your Fierce Feminine in the Depths of Darkness and Trauma (2019) Programs + Courses > Nervous System Informed Doula Training: Foundational Course www.NSIDoulaTraining.com > Fearlessly Thriving: A 5 part video series outlines point of view on healing and transformation www.flowingfears.com > Perinatal Mental Health Program: Childbirth informed, Nervous system approach and a unique therapeutic map for mental health professionals and students. https://www.therapyformoms.ca/trainings > Healing After Birth online program https://www.midwiferyforthesoul.com/courses/healing-after-birth-program

Have you ever been nervous for postpartum? From the day we found out we are pregnant until the day we deliver our baby, we are given all kinds of information so we know exactly what to expect for both pregnancy and birth. But what about after? What about once the baby comes, you make it home from the hospital and now you are supposed to figure out parenthood AND figure out what's happening to your body and hormones?It's honestly crazy to me that nobody talks about it! I genuinely want to change that. I want to open up about postpartum so moms can understand what is happening and focus more on their baby and less on their changing body! In this episode I'm going to share five things that I wish I knew about postpartum so you can feel more prepared for what's to come.I also have a free Postpartum Mini-Course video recording where I get even more into the details of which products will be helpful for you postpartum, how to ask for help, and what to expect as normal.

In episode 44, Dr. Alex and Paige discuss how women can optimize healing in the first few months after giving birth. We talk through movement, sleep, toxicity, nervous system, and (of course!) nutrition. Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/happyhealthystrongpodcast Follow us on Instagram: @happyhealthystrongpodcast Contact us: greatriverfamilywellness@gmail.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Thank you for listening!

In this episode, I answer listener questions. Send your questions on all things womb/pelvic health, the motherhood continuum and sovereign womanhood to: hello@bethanywilde.com ------------------------------------------ You can check out my Holistic Pelvic Wellness practitioner training and get my free guide: "How to Become a Women's Wellness Practitioner" on: www.bethanywilde.com Connect with me + my writings more regularly at: www.instagram.com/bethany.wilde Thank you so much! Your support in my offerings as well as sharing + reviewing this podcast helps support this project

"The power lies within to give birth and to heal. You are the expert of your experience." -J.S. Jennifer Summerfeldt, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), has nearly two decades of experience in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counselor, Jennifer has also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice, and published writer. She is the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth program, where she uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on motherhood, mental health, and healing. In this episode, you'll hear about: What inspired Jennifer to do postpartum coaching (1:39) Spiritual Midwifery Immaculate Deception How Jen heals women who've had a stressful postpartum period (14:50) If you don't feel safe, your body won't heal (15:55) Be informed to have better birth and postpartum cycles (17:56) Biologically, we have an innate wisdom that always wants to thrive (23:47) Neuroscience with Pankseep Polyvagal Theory Healing After Birth Program SacredAcoustics.com You can reach out to Jennifer at JenniferSummerfeldt.com and at Instagram.com/healingafterbirth.  Here's more from Jennifer: Healing After Birth Guidebook  - Navigating Your Emotions After A Difficult Childbirth CLICK HERE FREE 4 part video series - What Your Doctor Is Likely NOT Telling You About PPD/A  CLICK HERE Are you a soulfully inspired woman looking for next level counseling and coaching programs? CLICK HERE

Today I am excited to welcome Carla Sargent on for our Maternity Mental Health Series!Carla's background is in midwifery and other birth support work, which led her to an appreciation of the demand for an organization whose primary purpose was to look after the emotional needs of parents who were struggling to come to terms with a traumatic birth experience - so Healing Birth was born!Carla's Recommendations:Connect with Carla on Instagram: @Healing.BirthCheck out Carla's Birth: Here!Work with Carla: Support ServicesRead Carla's New Zealand Birth Trauma SurveyHow you can support The Baby Making Podcast:Buy Me A Coffee!Get 20% off your Kindred Bravely purchase with the code: BMP20 kindredbravely.com/TheBabyMakingPodcastIf you're interested or know someone who might be interested in coming on the podcast to talk about babies, parenthood, and everything in between — email the podcast at babymakingpod@gmail.com Don't forget to subscribe, follow us on Instagram @thebabymakingpodcast and on Facebook at The Baby Making Podcast!Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/babymakingpod)

In today's Mindful Monday episode, Jennifer guides you through a mini teaching about the foundational R's that help you 'do life well'. She prepares you to connect with your breath by introducing you to an orienting exercise to build emotional safety and she closes with a mindful exercise to tune into your breath as your friend. To book a session with the ASK Therapy team you can visit www.therapyformoms.ca For birth workers please visit www.nsidoulatraining.com To order Jennifer's books Healing After Birth and Midwifery For The Soul, you can visit Amazon in your residing country. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/therapyformoms/message

In this guided meditation Jennifer guides you through an inner investigation into your three centres of knowing housed within your body - the gut brain, heart brain, and skull brain. Followed by an invitation to connect with above and below, so you feel deeply rooted. We close with a gentle invitation to hold a moment of gratitude in your heart centre. To book a session with Jennifer and her team you can visit www.therapyformoms.ca For birth workers please visit www.nsidoulatraining.com To order Jennifer's books Healing After Birth and Midwifery For The Soul, you can visit Amazon in your residing country. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/therapyformoms/message

Leslie Abraham is  a French osteopath DO who specializes in pregnancy, postpartum and newborn care, with over 10 years of international experience, a published author, a prenatal and postpartum certified personal trainer, a certified health coach, and the founder of Bonjour Baby.Since 2008, Leslie has been working in the pre and postnatal field. Her passion for pregnancy  and postpartum began when she was still studying at the french Superior Institute of Osteopathy in Aix en Provence, one of the best Osteopathic schools in Europe. At this time, she spent countless hours researching, testing and applying different techniques, methods and exercises. Once graduated, she started to take care of women to facilitate their birth experience and help them recovering faster, with less pain and struggle.Fast forward to a few years later, she moved to the US in 2016. This is when it struck her. The differences between prenatal and postnatal care in Europe and the US are huge. France is one of the leading countries for birth prep and postnatal recovery, the US is far behind. Leslie joins me for a fantastic conversation on the types of care that really help women be put back in the center of their story and allow both mom and baby to thrive after childbirth. Even if your last baby was years ago, the principles are the same and are important for women of all ages. So if childbirth has been part of your story, I hope you'll listen and learn from this insightful conversation.You can learn more about Leslie and her programs at https://bonjourbaby.netand follow her on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bonjourbaby.la/  

What three things does Jennifer Summerfeldt want the world to know about caring for women? - Women's bodies are innately intelligent. - Women are resilient; healing is possible. - Women need nourishment; we need to drink from the ‘well'. Connect with Jennifer: - Jennifer's practice, Ask Therapy - Jennifer's books: Healing After Birth and Midwifery for The Soul DONATE HERE Full show notes available at www.BelovedHolistics.com Music by: Labrinth, Chancha Via Circuito, and Joaquín Cornejo --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/theholisticobgyn/message

Katie Sutherland is an energy medicine healer, teacher and holistic wellness practitioner who supports mothers to thrive and reclaim their empowerment and vibrancy while navigating the journey of motherhood and childbirth. Katie had a powerful initiatory experience through the birth of her daughter almost a decade ago. It was one of the most intensely challenging rites of passage in Katie’s life, yet held an important key in the awakening of her greater purpose, and was a catalyst for much of the transformational work Katie now shares in empowering and supporting other mothers. Her birth story is one of my favorite ones I have ever shared! Katie’s work and offerings can be found at www.innerwisdommotherhood.com Join us on Sunday, May 23rd, 5PM PST / 7PM CST for a FREE community call. Share your birth story, journey with healing, or anything else that is on your heart. Sign up on our website at www.healingbirth.net/events

Summary An excerpt from the Jaguar Mother 2021 course, Metzli discusses the postpartum experience according to the Mexican Indigenous tradition in which she was raised. She describes the baño pos-parto (postpartum ceremony) as a rite of passage from birth to motherhood, where women are cared for by the community with sobada (massage), rebozo (binding), herbs, baths, and other spiritual rituals. Postpartum is a sacred time not only for the baby but for the mother as well.   Bio Metztli Lopez Torres is a sobadora, doula, childbirth and lactation educator, anthropologist, feminist, mom, sister, daughter, friend, advocate of women's rights and environmentalist. Growing up in Mexico, she learned traditional ways of healing for pregnancy and postpartum, and after completing her bachelor and master degrees, began providing services during all stages of women's lives through her company Luna Mama.   What They Share  Metzli’s personal postpartum experiences for each of her babies Details of bano-post parto (postpartum ceremony) for healing Food, bodywork, and spiritual rituals for postpartum healing What You’ll Hear Being a teen mom led Metzli to work with pregnancy Metzli learned from community midwives, inter-generational teaching of midwifery and postpartum care Sobada, a style of Mexican massage learned from midwives Role of sobadora and midwives in Mexican culture Midwives considered sacred and highly respected in the community Cuarentena (first 40 days after delivery) considered a sacred time, woman needs to be taken care of Baño pos-parto as an indigenous tradition from Aztecs Temescal as a type of sweat lodge during postpartum Heat/Cold aspects of Mexican traditional medicine (drinks, food, body, etc.) Returning heat back to body after pregnancy and birth Metzli’s first postpartum experience in U.S. after Mexico Conversation with husband to plan for postpartum experience while in U.S. Recommends no household chores in early postpartum, plan for finances, explain significance of postpartum time for mother and baby Postpartum ceremony Metzli does includes sobada, herbal bath with spiritual rituals, massage breasts, sweat lodge Women can do bano posparto anytime for healing Use herbs, bath, discuss birth stories to heal, ask spirit of herbs to help heal wounds from births Connection between body and spirit for healing Belly binding Healing done in community with other women Describes postpartum experience while baby was in NICU Acceptance of difficult pregnancy, birth, infancy period Gap in culture of community and postpartum care   Resources website https://www.lunamama.net/form__map IG: @lunamama_services

Summary An excerpt from the Jaguar Mother 2021 course, Metzli discusses the postpartum experience according to the Mexican Indigenous tradition in which she was raised. She describes the baño pos-parto (postpartum ceremony) as a rite of passage from birth to motherhood, where women are cared for by the community with sobada (massage), rebozo (binding), herbs, baths, and other spiritual rituals. Postpartum is a sacred time not only for the baby but for the mother as well.   Bio Metztli Lopez Torres is a sobadora, doula, childbirth and lactation educator, anthropologist, feminist, mom, sister, daughter, friend, advocate of women's rights and environmentalist. Growing up in Mexico, she learned traditional ways of healing for pregnancy and postpartum, and after completing her bachelor and master degrees, began providing services during all stages of women's lives through her company Luna Mama. What They Share  Metzli’s personal postpartum experiences for each of her babies Details of bano-post parto (postpartum ceremony) for healing Food, bodywork, and spiritual rituals for postpartum healing What You’ll Hear Being a teen mom led Metzli to work with pregnancy Metzli learned from community midwives, inter-generational teaching of midwifery and postpartum care Sobada, a style of Mexican massage learned from midwives Role of sobadora and midwives in Mexican culture Midwives considered sacred and highly respected in the community Cuarentena (first 40 days after delivery) considered a sacred time, woman needs to be taken care of Baño pos-parto as an indigenous tradition from Aztecs Temescal as a type of sweat lodge during postpartum Heat/Cold aspects of Mexican traditional medicine (drinks, food, body, etc.) Returning heat back to body after pregnancy and birth Metzli’s first postpartum experience in U.S. after Mexico Conversation with husband to plan for postpartum experience while in U.S. Recommends no household chores in early postpartum, plan for finances, explain significance of postpartum time for mother and baby Postpartum ceremony Metzli does includes sobada, herbal bath with spiritual rituals, massage breasts, sweat lodge Women can do bano posparto anytime for healing Use herbs, bath, discuss birth stories to heal, ask spirit of herbs to help heal wounds from births Connection between body and spirit for healing Belly binding Healing done in community with other women Describes postpartum experience while baby was in NICU Acceptance of difficult pregnancy, birth, infancy period Gap in culture of community and postpartum care   Resources website https://www.lunamama.net/form__map IG: @lunamama_services

Can you reduce the risk of tearing in labour? What is an episiotomy and when is it used? Cath answers your questions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode, I have an amazing mama named Asha, coming on to share her truth as part of our weekly Mamahood Stories series. In our interview, we talk about her two pregnancies and birth stories. She shares how she handled her grief after having a cesarean birth and dealing with birth trauma with her first, and shares the story of her second pregnancy and attempted VBAC with her daughter, this year. We talk about the differences between her care with an OB the first time around and the care she received with her midwife the second time, and how her second cesarean birth was completely different experience and so much more empowering. In this episode, we explore: 4:29 Get to know Asha 8:36 Asha’s first pregnancy and birth experience with her son, Fox 15:56 Her first postpartum experience 18:45 The insurance plan and the importance of listening to good and bad birth stories 22:14 How has this pregnancy and birth with Hazel been different from the first time around? Trying for VBAC 34:51 The difference between the two cesareans 41:31 Her postpartum experiences and being postpartum during COVID 53:13 Her favorite thing about being a mama? Show Notes: Jennifer Summerfeldt https://www.jennifersummerfeldt.com/ Healing After Birth by Jennifer Summerfeldt About Asha Asha Thomas is a mama of two. She is a family doula and yoga teacher in Edmonton, Canada and she just gave birth to her baby girl Hazel during the Covid-19 pandemic. Find Asha Asha’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/grow.gentlekind/ Asha’s Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/grow.gentlekind Asha’s Website https://www.atyoga.ca/ Find Blooming Mamahood 
www.bloomingmamahood.com
 www.instagram.com/bloomingmamahood
 www.instagram.com/bloomingbirtheducation Find Laurie Lo
 www.instagram.com/_laurielo
 youtube.com/LaurieLo

Prairie Wolfe of Somatic Connections is dedicated to supporting mothers and families during the transition to parenthood by bringing together a unique and powerful skill set of therapies, modalities and care practices to assist in healing and preparation before during and after birth. With a beautifully grounded, wise way of sharing her knowledge and passion and we had such an in-depth, rich chat where Prairie shares: - Her own story of healing after birth and finding her calling to share this - The wide range of healing modalities available for healing - The importance of Somatic Experiencing in healing and as a life skill for regulating the nervous system - How Sexological Bodywork can provide healing and increase personal pleasure, knowledge and awareness - Innate Postpartum Care and the importance of revitalising care during the fourth trimester - Birth injuries, trauma manifestations and impacts on physical, emotional and mental health - How attunement and play in Motherhood can provide family healing Plus much more! Website - Instagram - Facebook To find out more about me and Pollination Mamas Website - Instagram - Facebook Podcast Sponsor - Olive Gap Farm ’The Littlest Birds' The gorgeous song features on the intro and outro Performed by: The O’Luca Family Band from Olive Gap Farm; Alex (Dad) - Drums/Vocals, Tara (Mum) - Vocals/Guitar, Olive (13) - Violin/Vocals, April (11) - Cello/Vocals, Cedar (8) - Percussion/Vocals Song: Originally performed by The Be Good Tanyas. Written by: Samantha Parton and Jolie Holland. Released 2000. Generously sponsored by Olive Gap Farm, a certified organic family farm specialising in small batch native essential oils and seasonal cut flowers. Located on Bundjalang Country in the Northern Rivers of NSW Australia. Drawing inspiration from various sustainable farming practices, both old and new, including permaculture, bio-intensive, bio-dynamics and regenerative agriculture, aiming to create the highest quality products available that are equally nourishing to us, our customers and the earth. Olive Gap Farm Website – Facebook – Instagram Perhaps you too feel a calling to work with new mothers as a postpartum doula in the special postpartum window: Newborn Mothers affiliate link Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast do not constitute medical or professional advice, do not reflect the opinions of this business, any of its parent companies, affiliates, subsidiaries, promotional sponsors, or advertising agencies, and do not create any type of patient-physician relationship or other professional relationship between the audience and presenters. No person viewing any podcast from this website should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of a podcast without first seeking appropriate professional advice and/or counselling, nor shall the information be used as a substitute for professional advice and/or counselling. Pollination Mamas expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.

**Sensitive Topic of Conversation** In this episode of the Healing After Birth podcast I spoke with Liz Winters about her lived experience with pregnancy loss. Liz openly shares about: The challenges faced in the postpartum after losing her son at 39 weeks; The isolation; The anger; Rebuilding trust in her body; Mindfulness in pregnancy after loss; How she is dealing with fear and anxiety during pregnancy after loss; Her honest reflections on the 'gift' of grief and how she doesn't align with that notion During this candid heartfelt conversation about postpartum, motherhood, grief, and health, Liz did not hold back. She was honest, reflective, and insightful. Professional Bio: Liz Winters is a nutritional therapy practitioner, certified pre and postnatal coach, unapologetic foodie and mama. She is the owner of Liz Winters Wellness, an online platform dedicated to helping women move through all walks of motherhood with ease through meaningful fitness and nutrition programs, healthy living support, and hundreds of delicious recipes. After the unexpected loss of her son, Liz set out to change the way women walk through pregnancy and infant loss by creating the support programs: Well this F*cking Sucks: The Grieving Mama’s Guide to Postpartum Recovery After Loss From Speechless to Supportive: How to Support a Loved One After Pregnancy Loss. Links to programs below: ● What the F*ck Do I Do Now: Tips for Navigating Postpartum Recovery After Loss (free download): CLICK HERE ● This Shit is Hard: How to Support Someone After Pregnancy Loss (free download): CLICK HERE ● Well this F*cking Sucks: The Grieving Mama’s Guide to Postpartum Recovery After Loss (full program, $97): CLICK HERE ● From Speechless to Supportive: How to Support a Loved One After Pregnancy Loss (full program, $37): CLICK HERE You can find Liz on Instagram (@lizwinterswellness), co-hosting the Beyond Birth Podcast, or at LizWintersWellness.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

For our full show notes: Visit our Episode Webpage This week we are talking with Jennifer Summerfeldt. Jennifer holds an MA in Counselling Psychology and has nearly two decades of experience in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counsellor and a coach, Jennifer has also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice, and published writer. She uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on motherhood, mental health, and healing. Listen as Jennifer shares her birth stories, healing from birth trauma, and support she hopes all birthing women receive. MORE FROM JENNIFER: Jennifer’s Website | Healing After Birth by Jennifer Summerfeldt (Book) | Healing After Birth Podcast | Healing After Birth - Jennifer’s Online Courses | Sacred Story Keeper - Jennifer’s Course for Doulas | Follow Jennifer on Instagram |  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This podcast episode features Jennifer Summerfeldt’s recorded lecture from the Into the Heart of Trauma Conference in Edmonton (April 8-10, 2019) entitled Healing After Birth - A Trauma Informed Perspective in Postpartum Health. Jennifer Summerfeldt, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), has nearly two decades of experience in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counsellor, Jennifer has also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice and published writer. She is the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth program, where she uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on motherhood, mental health, and healing. To learn more about Jennifer, visit www.jennifersummerfeldt.com.

Jennifer Summerfeldt, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), has nearly two decades of experience in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counselor, Jennifer has also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice, and published writer. As the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth program, Jennifer uses her...Read More

"The power lies within to give birth and to heal. You are the expert of your experience." -J.S. Jennifer Summerfeldt, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), has nearly two decades of experience in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counselor, Jennifer has also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice, and published writer. She is the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth program, where she uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on motherhood, mental health, and healing. In this episode, you’ll hear about: What inspired Jennifer to do postpartum coaching (1:39) Spiritual Midwifery Immaculate Deception How Jen heals women who’ve had a stressful postpartum period (14:50) If you don’t feel safe, your body won’t heal (15:55) Be informed to have better birth and postpartum cycles (17:56) Biologically, we have an innate wisdom that always wants to thrive (23:47) Neuroscience with Pankseep Polyvagal Theory Healing After Birth Program SacredAcoustics.com You can reach out to Jennifer at JenniferSummerfeldt.com and at Instagram.com/healingafterbirth.  Here's more from Jennifer: Healing After Birth Guidebook  - Navigating Your Emotions After A Difficult Childbirth CLICK HERE FREE 4 part video series - What Your Doctor Is Likely NOT Telling You About PPD/A  CLICK HERE Are you a soulfully inspired woman looking for next level counseling and coaching programs? CLICK HERE Next week on the Pure Nurture Podcast: Let’s face it. Birth can be as challenging or as uplifting as you make it. My next guest, Stephanie Greunke, is from the Whole Mamas Club. She helps you connect what you’re eating to the impact it has on your mental health. Food affects everything. Tune in!

This is a tender and vulnerable episode about a topic so many of us avoid talking about - MONEY! I was inspired to call Debbie Bridge and ask her if she would be willing to come on the podcast again. This time I wanted to talk about money. The reason was two fold: a. I received positive feedback about our episode together last time, because it was deep, vulnerable, and relatable and, b. I wanted to explore my own limiting beliefs about money (which I imagine will strike a cord with many of you, the listeners) So a small warning or preface ... In this episode you will journey alongside both Debbie and Myself as we both explore our personal relationship with money and motherhood. I know that this topic is relatable to so many mothers because one of the biggest challenges that we face, as mothers, is that of financial stress. Many of us are burdened by the shadow of 'money debt and survival' resulting in the activation of avoidance, shut down, and survival mode. This can cause so many of us to spiral with negativity and feelings of utter vulnerability. Please join Debbie Bridge and I, as we use The Work for self-inquiry to dig into our pains and limiting beliefs about money. ....... You can learn more about Debbie at www.debbiebridge.ca and the process www.thework.com You can purchase a copy of Healing After Birth guidebook at www.jennifersummerfeldt.com/hab or on Amazon . Dive deep into your healing with the Healing After Birth Program --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

In this episode of Birth Kweens, we’re talking with Jennifer Summerfeldt, MACP about birth trauma. Jennifer is a counselor who has nearly two decades of experience working in maternal health and psychology. In addition to being a counsellor, she’s also been a childbirth advocate, maternal educator, doula, midwifery apprentice, and published writer. She is the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth program, where she uses her expertise and voice to help advance the dialogue on motherhood, mental health, and healing. She is the author of the book Healing After Birth. Here’s what we cover with Jennifer: Jennifer’s background and how her own pregnancy and birth experiences led her to the field of maternal mental health How to define trauma, specifically as it relates to birth Signs and symptoms of birth trauma Some theories on why many new parents find it so difficult to identify that they’ve experienced birth trauma and/or reach out for help Some misconceptions about trauma How to define dysregulation of the nervous system and why it’s an important concept to understand when it comes to healing from trauma The relationship between trauma and shame How to get started working through a traumatic birth experience when it seems completely overwhelming/impossible The important role that meditation plays in healing from trauma Find binaural beats on Sacred Acoustics Click here to buy Jennifer’s amazing book, Healing After Birth   SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! Get a great personalized gift from Swanky Badger. Enter code KWEENS at checkout for 10% off! Sign up for a Fab Fit Fun box today! Enter code KWEENS for $10 off your first box! --- If you liked this episode of the Birth Kweens Podcast, tell your friends! And go to iTunes, Stitcher, GooglePlay, and Spotify to rate/review/subscribe to the show. For more from us, visit www.BirthKweens.com to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram @BirthKweens, join our Facebook group the Birth Kweens Podcast Community, and email us at birthkweens@gmail.com with your questions, suggestions and feedback. Also, be sure to click here so that you can support the show while doing your regular Amazon shopping!

Between 25 and 34 per cent of women report that their births were traumatic. Given this staggering number, how many of these people have the support or tools to safely heal and recover from their birth experience? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I speak with childbirth educator, doula and author, Jennifer Summerfeldt. Jennifer and I dive deeply into the impact of birth trauma on the postpartum experience, the relationship of postpartum depression to birth trauma and finally tools to recovery if you experienced birth trauma. This meaty, powerful conversation may help put words and understanding to unrealized trauma. For the full show notes visit: prenatalyogacenter.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer Summerfeldt, MACP, joins the show to talk about how our bodies protect us through trauma, and her wisdom from working in the field of maternal health and psychology for over two decades. Along with being a counselor, childbirth advocate, doula, and maternal educator, Jennifer is the founder and creator of the Healing After Birth Program. She and Hillary talk about the brain and how it works in trauma, what led Jennifer to be a birth crusader, the different lenses of healing, and many of the indicators that may be pointing at trauma in birth that most people aren’t aware of.   To share your own fertility story, please email me at hillary@ladypotions.com. I look forward to connecting with you, as you are what this podcast is all about.   Takeaways: [8:17] Jennifer was a college-level athlete and has always had a passion for peak performance and a deep determination to excel in both mindset and physical achievement. She used some of the skills such as mental rehearsal and self-talk for her own birthing experience. Her intimate relationship with her own physiology in performance led to her self-directed choice in her eighth month to switch caregivers to hire a midwife to attend her first birth. The incredible empowerment she felt gave her a new mission to spread the word that there is much behind the veil of birth many women are not informed of. [14:48] In her second childbirth, she endured a rough time emotionally, but stayed curious in her education, and the consumption of information and stories. This led her to discover just how many births are traumatic and violent for both the mothers and the babies, and it blew open her passion even more deeply. [19:51] A conscious conception looks at all facets of birth and pregnancy. Jennifer believes we are initiated throughout an entire energetic continuum of bearing life which may include losses, conception issues, complicated childbirth and labor, or postpartum challenges. In our society, we are not often prepared or comfortable with the struggles these bring and in the tendency to suppress or move quickly through it, we miss out on the healing that surrendering to our wisdom and knowledge within brings. [29:21] The last few years have shown an increase in care and languaging, but Jennifer feels there is a long way to go. She defines trauma as what we experience as the result of having an experience that activated our stress response, leaving us feeling trapped in our survival stress response. There is a physical reaction that instinctively happens, all intended for our safety and protection. However, the psychological component traps us in the stress response, in which we have a hard time discharging suffering and the feeling of threat to our survival. [33:45] When we understand a disorganized system through the lens of a system, we can start to see how to use our innate intelligence to bring us back into balance and take the information and store it in an appropriate manner. [40:03] The stress response not only affects digestion but also shuts down our reproductive system. Our bodies know that it is not time to reproduce if we need to protect ourselves from what we perceive as a threat. [42:25] For those of us that have lived with unresolved trauma, we know that it has a deep and profound impact on our entire mind, body, and soul. [44:17] Mammals in the wild know how to literally discharge and shake off energy, rage through and eventually restore the somatic repercussion of trauma. [49:51] If we can cultivate the practice of mindfulness and activate the observer within us, it brings our pre-frontal cortex more back into balance. [52:40] It’s the meaning behind the feelings that we are actually afraid of. We fear if I feel too much, I may die or hurt someone or myself. [57:02] We get to a point where the distractions and diversions don’t work, and we are forced to do the work and create a new story in what Jennifer describes as the “collective womb.” [61:34] Women tend to feel that their story is not important enough and yet storytelling is what makes us feel human and connected. [66:20] Our unresolved birth experience has a profound impact on our relationships and the story we carry that impacts and ripples out in our life. Jennifer reminds us that the more we can cultivate the practice of “being with” and the less we label or create a biased attachment of meaning, the more we can be in true awe of our physiology and the amazing being that we are. [69:44] Our biology is in favor of us wanting to thrive and is constantly giving us feedback and rich information.   References: Fertile Minds on LibSyn Fertile Minds on iTunes @ladypotions4u Healing After Birth: Navigating Your Emotions After A Difficult Childbirth, by Jennifer Summerfeldt MACP Spiritual Midwifery, by Ina May Gaskin Birth Without Violence Immaculate Deception: A New Look at Women and Childbirth in America, by Suzanne Arms Jennifer Summerfeldt Iain McGilchrist Dan Siegel: “Flipping the Lid” Healing After Birth Podcast FREE 4 part video series - What Your Doctor Is Likely NOT Telling You About PPD/A CLICK HERE Are you a soulfully inspired woman looking for next level counseling and coaching programs? CLICK HERE   Continue Your Journey: Link to sign up for free 29-day meditation challenge @ladypotions4u on Twitter @ladypotions4u on Instagram My Website: Ladypotions.com Special Thanks to Christopher Lloyd Clarke for music   Disclaimer *  You must not rely on the information in this podcast as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or another professional healthcare provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should consult your doctor or another professional healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website or in this podcast.  

Welcome to the Healing After Birth podcast. I am your host, Jennifer Summerfeldt, author and creator of the Healing After Birth book and program. You can order a copy of the book on Amazon.com or learn more about my services at www.jscoaching.co ......................... In this episode we explore the topics of: - Domestic life as a mom and the challenges we face, especially for those who do not enjoy the domestic life of motherhood. - Jill shares vulnerably about her experience with PPD and what she did to find her way out; and her challenges with motherhood. - We addressed struggles the 'working mom' can experience - Closed with some tips and suggestions for getting support To learn more about Jill Culver please visit www.jillculver.ca ................ Jill Culver has over 20 years of experience working alongside families during their childbearing year. She is a counsellor in private practice, specializing in the emotional challenges that can accompany pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenting. Jill has experience working with families around mood issues, pregnancy and infant loss, traumatic childbirth, childbirth fear, intrusive thoughts and postpartum adjustment. Jill’s previous roles include Birth and Postpartum Doula, Pregnancy Outreach Counsellor, Mental Health Counsellor and, most recently, a Perinatal Social Worker at Victoria General Hospital in British Columbia Canada. Jill holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of British Columbia. Jill offers in person counselling in Victoria, and around the world by Skype or phone. She can be reached at jill.culver@me.com or through her website www.jillculver.ca. She speaks and runs workshops on mental health topics for doulas, birth-workers, and midwives. ............. If you have a podcast topic you would like me to focus on or a question, please send us an email at hello@jennifersummerfeldt.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

During this episode of the Healing After Birth podcast I had the pleasure of interviewing Janelle Kottelenberg, a mother of 4 children and owner of thriving business called Nourish Your Life. Janelle shares vulnerably about her healing journey as a mother who was diagnosed with PTSD after her first birthing experience. She speaks about how she had to take charge of her healing and what eventually worked for her. You can learn more about Janelle Kottelenberg at www.Nourishyourlife.net Instagram: @nourish_your_life Facebook:nourishyourlife --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

During this episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Debbie Bridge from www.debbiebridge.ca. Together we explored candidly and authentically ways to engage many of the challenges mothers face using self-inquiry and www.TheWork.com as a compassionate method for engaging the present moment. Topics and parenting lived experiences explored were: - Parenting a teenager - Mothering a colicky baby - Realizing that we have no control - Working with a core belief 'bad things are going to happen' - Parenting a teenager who is addicted to drugs Nothing in this podcast was scripted or enacted. It was an authentic experience recorded in real-time. The emotions expressed and the process that I engaged with, was a wonderful surprise. I share vulnerably in this episode about a core belief I struggle with and how it got in the way of my parenting throughout the years. We learn from each other. We grow together. This is a powerful episode that outlines in detail how to practice self-inquiry 'in the moment'. You can learn more about Debbie at www.debbiebridge.ca And you can purchase a copy of Healing After Birth guidebook at www.jennifersummerfeldt.com/hab or on Amazon​. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

Could opening up a conversation about sex after birth be the first step towards healing? Kimberly Johnson believes so and is on a mission to help women reconnect with their sexuality and heal themselves after giving birth. Over nine years ago, Kimberly gave birth and was left with severe tearing in her pelvic floor, constant low ... The post Sex & Healing After Birth with Magamama founder Kimberly Johnson appeared first on Expectful.

Sally's interview with Angela Fitzgerald and local mum Kate about the power of sharing birth stories for healing from birth. Includes brief recording with Jane Hardwicke Collings about how our behavioural patterns influence our births and how questioning what role we may be playing in the outcome.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 18 July 2016.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Angela Fitzgerald and local mum Kate about the power of sharing birth stories for healing from birth. Includes brief recording with Jane Hardwicke Collings about how our behavioural patterns influence our births and how questioning what role we may be playing in the outcome.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 18 July 2016.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org