the art of holding space

Birth work is full of magic, the excitement of getting the call.
Rushing out at all hours to provide support.
Often I get asked about what a doula is and what do we actually do?
Fair question, the answer could range from the typical "provides informational, physical, emotional and practical support during pregnancy, birth and post-birth" to a detailed account of all the ways we can and do care for a family to a very true and real answer...
Sometimes we do NOTHING.

Your eyes may be bulging a little after reading that, how could we charge a fee for a service of nothing. However "nothing" is the intangible support a doula brings. The confidence, love and admiration for the family. It's the vibe, the security of the space. If doubt starts to creep in, one look into your doula's eyes can bring comfort, energy, acknowledgement and strength. This isn't just for the birthing mama either- partners need this kind of support too!  The wide-eyed "is this normal" glance of a partner looking for validation being met with a warm smile, gentle nod and reassuring eyes can make their experience totally different.

So why hire a doula and not just have a family member, friend or even just your partner provide this kind of support. Because those closest to you will emotionally invested in your birth and rightfully so! A doula brings clarity, experience and training to your birth without the added task of having to perform clinical tasks- and is able to focus on seeing you through those intense moments without distraction.

art by Alisha Vernon