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Postpartum, Motherhood Journey, Pregnancy, Doula Erica Paulson Postpartum, Motherhood Journey, Pregnancy, Doula Erica Paulson

Empowering Birth Experiences: The Impact of Doula Support on Birth and Postpartum Outcomes

In the midst of winter's final embrace, we're excited to share some doula-approved tips to keep your spirits high and your energy soaring as you await the arrival of your little one or navigate your postpartum time. This post is all about weaving together the comforting hues of "pinks and blues" with mindful practices that align with the doula wisdom you deserve.

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Doula Tips for Epidural Preparation & Comfort

As an expectant mother, navigating the journey of childbirth can be both exhilarating and daunting. One aspect that many mothers consider is whether to opt for an epidural during labor. While the decision to have an epidural is deeply personal and varies from person to person, having the support of a doula can greatly enhance the experience.

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Pregnancy, Postpartum, Doula Tips Erica Paulson Pregnancy, Postpartum, Doula Tips Erica Paulson

Nurturing Tradition: The “Groaning Cake” as a Timeless Embrace in Modern Birthing

As a doula, I've witnessed the profound impact that traditions can have on the birthing experience. One such ancient ritual that has woven its way into the tapestry of childbirth is the groaning cake, or kimbly. Beyond its delectable taste, the groaning cake carries rich symbolism, connecting us to a heritage of support, resilience, and celebration.

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Pregnancy, Doula Tips Erica Paulson Pregnancy, Doula Tips Erica Paulson

Recipe

The most essential prenatal care is not provided by a midwife or a doctor. There is nothing more important for a healthy pregnancy than the simple yet profound daily choices that an expectant mother makes about her diet.

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Erica Paulson Erica Paulson

The Role of a Doula

The beautiful concept of a doula traces back to ancient times. Derived from ancient Greek, 'doula' translates to "a woman who serves." Throughout history, from small tribal communities to expansive ancient civilizations, doulas played a pivotal role. They were not just assisting in childbirth but also offering wisdom, comfort, and emotional succor to expecting mothers.

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Erica Paulson Erica Paulson

Celebrating Breastfeeding Mothers

To the mammas that breastfeed for any amount of time: 1 hour, 1 day or 3 years, this week is celebrating you, your selflessness and your strength. In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, we recognize YOU 👏🏼 What was your breastmilk/feeding journey like?

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Erica Manto Paulson Erica Manto Paulson

Blink Big

My son recently graduated from high school, and I was remembering the times when he was little and I would frequently hear an older mom say, “Don't blink! It goes so fast!” I would smile and nod and say “thank-you,” when they would say that to me, because I know the intention was good, but inside I would be feeling sad and stressed, thinking, “Do you think I am not aware of how fast time is flying or how hard I am trying to soak it all in everyday??”

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Ally Laake Ally Laake

Support, Access, and Community on the Journey to Motherhood 

My journey into birthwork began with a desire to support moms in crisis or unplanned pregnancies. After graduating college, I wanted to put my passions into action. So, I moved myself out West to live in a maternity home that provided housing to pregnant and parenting women formerly experiencing homelessness. Through this experience, I saw firsthand what a special yet vulnerable time pregnancy, birth, and postpartum can be for so many women, especially if one is lacking the proper support and education.

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Erica Manto Paulson Erica Manto Paulson

Affirmations Wall

This beautiful “Affirmations Wall” caught my eye the other day while attending a birth. Isn’t it lovely? I love all the colors and phrases on each card. This mamma surrounded herself with positivity every step of her pregnancy and everything that she put into her birth came back to her tenfold, in every way. It was so inspiring!

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Erica Paulson Erica Paulson

This is hypno-birthing

This is hypno-birthing. This is labor starting with so many unknowns and a mamma who practiced and practiced and practiced taking one step at a time. And breathing into each step. Expanding. Contracting. Expanding. Expanding. Contracting. Two steps forward, one step back.

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Erica Manto Paulson Erica Manto Paulson

Prenatal Guided Meditation is more than just relaxation.

Relaxing, learning how to calm your body and breathe during labor and releasing areas of tension are only some of the benefits of meditation during pregnancy.

Bonding with your baby, releasing old fears and worries, connection to your body and your baby in ways you never thought you could...all are supported with regular mindfulness practices.

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Erica Manto Paulson Erica Manto Paulson

Taking Time to Soak it In

Wednesdays Nurture is closed. It is a wake up early and make a big breakfast before working from home, kind of day.

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Erica Manto Paulson Erica Manto Paulson

Babies Miss the Womb

One of the reasons babies cry is because they miss the womb. Can you blame them?

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