This is an opportunity for you to slow down, pause, and listen to your own instincts and insights as a pregnant woman. It is an opportunity to be part of a community of other women, to share our stories with one another and to learn from each other. We will do some yoga to begin with, followed by a period of time to speak and reflect on the theme of the week, followed by a deep relaxation or meditation, with some snacks provided to keep you going!

Weekly Themes:

1. Physical Wellbeing in Pregnancy: adapting to changes in the physical body

2. Emotional/Psychological Wellness in Pregnancy: riding the waves and embracing the transformation of pregnancy

3. Preparing for Birth: exploring our choices and instincts and how to meet the basic needs of a woman in labour 

4. The Fourth Trimester: becoming a Mother (again); planning for postpartum rest; newborn care & our mothering instincts

5. Wellbeing for Mothers: revisiting aspects from the course; sharing tips and tools for the long-term

What to expect:

• 2 hour class every Thursday for 5 weeks (with one week break; NO CLASS on 15th Sept)
• Yoga: stretch, move and realign the body - suitable for all abilities
• Reflect: explore themes relating to Pregnancy, Birth and Motherhood; listen to others and speak your mind in a safe, confidential space (nobody has to speak, simply listening is welcome)
• Relax: we will complete each session with a deep relaxation/meditation to support your well-being and to assimilate all that has been spoken about and experienced during our time together.
• Snacks: light snacks will be provided during the class, please try to eat something before you come
• A safe and intimate group of no more than 10 people

Course Dates:

• 1st and 8th Sept
• NO CLASS 15th Sept
• 22nd, 29th Sept and 6th Oct

Aims and ethos of the course:

My hope is that you will leave each session a little lighter in body and mind; feeling heard and listened to; feeling part of a community of other mothers, and a little more in tune with your own instincts and priorities. I don't believe there are any special techniques we need to learn or practice in order to give birth; our bodies were made to do it. I do believe that the environment and the people we have present at the time of our birth plays a huge part in how things turn out. I know also that life is full of surprises and to learn to adapt to these curve balls is what gives us strength and brings inner peace. Pregnancy and Birth hold an opportunity for immense transformation in a woman's life and it is my hope that this course will support you to find your own way through this incredible journey of childbearing and bringing life.

Testimonials:

"Surprised by how much I enjoyed the talking circle. I just loved the community. A really lovely magical experience. Thanks Laura xx" - Poppy

"My impression on leaving the course is so different to before it started, it was a bit different to what I was expecting but in a good and positive way. The talking circle has really been so valuable and not something I can put on youtube at home!! So grateful to all the women for their honesty, it has been so empowering. I really think it has been a vital part in shifting my attitude, thoughts and positivity. It has helped me to be more open with myself and with my partner and has helped me feel more in tune with myself." - Lora 

"It has provided a space to focus on bump/baby and my 'current' body's needs. I've met a group of women with whom to share a special journey. Listening to others experiences and wishes from a diverse group has enabled me to become more comfortable and empowered in making my own choices around birth. Thank you Laura" - Katy

About Laura: 

My mothering journey began 11 years ago, and I now have 3 children. I have been practicing y

oga and meditation for 17 years and teaching yoga on and off for 12 years. I am a Birth Doula, accompanying women and families through the journey of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. I love to be amongst groups of women and to experience the gentle healing that it brings for us to be together. I am a huge advocate for self-led healing, living and birthing, and am a great believer that we can heal the world, one birth at a time.