The Mother Doula

08/03/2022

Did you know that there is a word, coined in 1973 by medical anthropologist Dana Raphael, to describe the huge physiological and psychological transition that women make when they become mothers?

That word is 'Matrescence'.

The fact that most have never heard of this word is a good example of how under-researched, misunderstood and undervalued this tremendous transformation is for new mothers. But understanding is so needed. As the Rajneesh quote goes: “The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.”

This is why in 'How to be a Calm Parent' there is a whole chapter devoted to tackling transitions as a parent - including maybe the most important of them all; Matrescence.

How to be a Calm Parent is out now, find out more here:
https://sarahockwell-smith.com/how-to-be-a-calm-parent/

03/03/2022

I am On Call at the moment which is very exciting and spending lots of time with the beautiful Mumma to be is so special.

But my goodness the planning that goes into me being available 24/7 is no mean feat! I thought it might be interesting to break it down:

🌟Line up my own on call team
🌟Send spreadsheets of daily activities for my children
🌟Have bags packed, uniforms lined out, presents wrapped, spare car seats at the ready
🌟Send instructions for all our animals
🌟Have the car filled with fuel
🌟My bag packed and in the car
🌟Some rest for myself preparing for the birth (I’m yet to check this off the list!)

There is so much more to being on call for a doula than many realise, this list is just a synopsis.

Would I change it? No way 💛

18/01/2022

In the latter half of 2021, I joined a wonderful group of ladies to embark on a new course with The Breastfeeding Network to further my knowledge and practice of breastfeeding support.

I am delighted to have passed, I feel so well equipped to support my clients on their feeding journeys.

The Breastfeeding Network offer an incredible support service to anyone in need and have outstanding training programmes for professionals and anyone looking to further their knowledge on breastfeeding.

I am here for all your feeding needs, do get in touch if I can be of assistance!

15/11/2021

There are endless benefits to babywearing for both parents and baby. It meets the needs of babies for closeness and warmth and is a gentle transition to life outside the womb. It facilitates bonding and allows the wearer to be hands free! It is vital to ensure baby wearing is safe at all times, a great rule to follow is T.I.C.K.S

🌼Tight enough to hug your baby
🌼In view at all times
🌼Close enough to kiss
🌼Keep chin off the chest
🌼Supported back

There are many different types of slings, if you would be interested in an overview, send me a message and I’d be delighted to chat options.

10/11/2021

This afternoon my daughter had an after school play date. They are really into babies and the game commenced where one of them was about to have a baby…firstly I was asked to leave the room, after a little while I popped my head around to find the lights had been dimmed, pillows and fluffy blankets had been arranged, there was a pot of tea on the coffee table along with the tv remote…I was then invited in to help with the birth as “I’m a Mummy who helps other Mummy’s have babies”… I give you a magical birth space and the definition of a doula from the mind of a 5 year old 🥰

02/11/2021

As a doula, my role is not to give advice, it is to inform my clients. My role is to empower clients to make their own choices that are well informed, validated and right for them. When it comes to pregnancy and babies, it certainly is not a one size fits all scenario! Here are a selection of my go to resources, the list is endless though. I am going to start sharing some reviews to support clients in making their own decision on if a text might be worth a read for them.

04/10/2021

Self care…I am not good at it, I know that! During my training we spent a lot of time talking about self care. The role of a doula is supporting others, ensuring their needs are met and that they have their self care time. This is where I thrive. However, in order for me to do the best for my clients I need to take care of myself.
This morning marks the first day in 11 days I haven’t had a poorly child. I did the school run and rather than coming home to do the million jobs I need to, I went for a ride. This is my self care, it’s my reset and brings me so much calm, pleasure and clarity. Now I can crack on with my zoom calls and know that hour was the most productive one of the day.
So my message to you, embrace self care and do something for you!

26/09/2021

I have had a few questions recently on how I came up with the name The Mother Doula so I thought I’d share. First and foremost I am a Mother. My girls are my absolute world and since becoming a Mum, they really have shaped everything I aspire to do. My passion to support families and embark on a role that motivates me to be the best version of myself led me to be a doula. So there you have it, The Mother Doula is me and I am here to support you. Also for those of you who know my daughters, you will notice the initials are no coincidence. TMD this is for you 💕

13/09/2021

I have been taking a break over the summer holidays and the last week have been settling my daughters back into school. Now I’m back to work with some Monday motivation from one of our favourite authors. I have embraced every second of my doula journey so far, my passion for what I do sparks a light in me everyday!

13/09/2021

13/09/2021

13/09/2021

Welcome to The Mother Doula! I am incredibly excited to start this venture and hope to offer families the support they deserve. My website has all the details of who I am and what I can offer, please do check it out. Look out for exciting things to come!