How to feel Calm before birth (even if you’re anxious)

by | Birth Preparation

Hello again birth nerds,

Today I’m going to have a little yarn about feeling calm about birth. Now, I hate the idea that we are trying to be ‘perfect’ or instagram worthy in birth, so this blog is certainly not about that. That’s quite the antithesis of what I am always prattling on about. If you’ve been following along for a while, you’ll know that if you are feeling observed or not completely uninhibited in your space (whether via a camera pointed at you or a midwife you don’t feel totally comfortable with) then you may find some tension in your body and in your mind. You’re capacity to ‘let go’ here is your best birth friend.

I believed I could – I kept saying “I can do anything for one minute!”

by | Birth Stories

This mumma knew she needed to lean into herself, come to @calmbirth and learn how powerful her body is. She contacted me at the last minute after trying to find a local course (without success), knowing she needed to empower herself. She told stories of long-held trust issues with her body, and this being a ‘surprise’ pregnancy had her on the back foot. But she put the work in, committed herself to the practice and left her birth feeling “in awe” of herself. Read on for the details.

The Spirituality of Birth

by | Birth Preparation

I thought today we could discuss the spirituality of birth. This is a well covered topic online, but here’s my point of view. I’ve had over 12 years experience around birth in the hospital setting, and just a few life-changing experiences with home birth (including my own). There are some really important differences. I would also like to acknowledge that these writings are my own opinion, and not everything is true for everyone.

Choline in Pregnancy

by | Nutrition & Health

Choline is part of the B-vitamin family. It is essential for a healthy nervous system and brain function, and it helps the formation of cell membranes in your body. Everyone needs choline for a well-functioning body. Adult RDI varies, it is between 425mg-550mg per day (3). Small amounts of choline are produced by your liver but aren’t sufficient to meet your daily needs (3). Around 90% of adults aren’t meeting the required intake (4).

Getting To Know Calmbirth Educator Elly Robertson

by | Educators

Congratulations and welcome to your incredible journey towards parenthood. I’m Elle, a passionate registered nurse and midwife with over a decade of experience. I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless families through the beautiful process of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

“It has become obvious to me over this time that the parents who are active participants in their journey come out of it in a truly positive way, regardless of how it unfolds. I am a firm believer in education being the foundation of self-determination; you are the expert of your body and your baby. After all, you are not only birthing your baby but birthing yourselves as parents.”