Got Courage?

I am excited to introduce you to Shauna Brandes, a new doula with an old soul.  Here she shares a simple story of courage that inspired me, and reminded me of the richness of spirit that fills the doula community.  Doulas are grassroots women who do not wait for permission to help other women reclaim their inner strength.  I see Shauna as a specialist in the transformation of fear into healing, which is a journey many of us must travel as we birth our families and all aspects of our lives.  Please visit her Web site for more fiery inspiration through her words as well as a beautiful photo gallery at www.shaunabrandes.com.  Welcome and thank you to Shauna.

You see this flaming red hair of mine?  I’m considering letting it go, for now, and returning to dark, mysterious tresses but I’m having the hardest time saying goodbye. It’s as if the blood red dye has seeped into the definition of my being.

Latina women, reclaim your birth power!

Latina mothers have a rich childbearing heritage to draw upon.  Maria Apreza is a doula and Spanish medical interpreter serving the Seattle area. She is passionate about immigrant and women’s rights. Maria also volunteers her services through Open Arms Perinatal Services, a local non-profit that provides doulas free of charge to low-income women of color.  She lives with her husband and four kids.  Originally from Mexico, she enjoys teaching women how to use the rebozo in pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period.  Click here for an excellent list of resources and information on the rebozo that she has collected.  Maria Apreza reflects upon her personal heritage and her professional experience in the inspiring essay below.

Supporting the Births of Plus-Size Mothers

A wonderful Web site titled Plus Size Birth aims to empower plus-size mothers in many ways.  The site offers articles on topics ranging from finding a size-friendly midwife or OB, to locating good-fitting baby carriers; links to many resources; an inspiring pregnancy photo gallery; and a directory of doulas in the U.S. and around the world who have experience working with mothers 200 pounds or more (doulas who would like to be listed, or mothers who would like to find a doula, can click here).  I encourage everyone to spend time exploring the Plus Size Birth site, and to be enlightened by its message of embracing a positive body image for all mothers regardless of size.  Founder of the site Jen McLellan shares her birth story, and her experience laboring as a plus-size mother, below.