Today I had the opportunity to attend a wonderful event at The House called Birth Matters. It was an expose’ of mother’s groups, doulas, home birth providers, physical therapists, massage therapists, lactation specialists and many more. I was there with Creative Therapeutics, the place where Exceptional Yoga calls home, sharing information about the Prenatal Yoga and Mommy & Me classes I currently teach. There were many amazing women there – women who have had a great difference in many other women’s lives.
When I came to DeKalb (the 2nd time) in 2008, 6 months pregnant with Holden, I tried desperately to find a home birth provider. I was not aware of the many resources available and did not know how to find them. Although I am grateful I was able to find a way to have the natural, intervention free birth I desired, I drove all the way to Oak Park to a Midwife’s group to do it!
As I think of my friend who is days away from having a successful VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), proving doubtful doctors and nurses and naysayers wrong, I am in awe of this beautiful movement happening right here in DeKalb. Women coming together from many different aspects and walks of life all toward one purpose: assisting women in achieving the birth experience they desire.
There is an empowerment movement happening, and women are taking charge of their health – prenatal and postnatal. At a time when many medical practices are moving in a “standard of care” direction, it is great to see so many coming together to resist that depersonalization of the birth experience. I hope this evening there are many expecting moms sitting at home smiling, thinking of the wonderful connections they made today, looking forward to having the beautiful and unforgettable birth experience they wish for.
Namaste’
