One week before, I spoke with H about what her ceremony might look like. She was concerned she would feel very hungry over a four hour session so I reassured her it was going to be a pleasurable , celebratory experience not a torture chamber! She could snack and drink whenever she wished.

I have a wonderful tea put together by my friend Daia @doula.ancura containing herbs and cacao and I recommend the mother can sip that throughout the session. It is important to be well hydrated as one part of the process is warming up and bringing the heat out the body.

A few days before the session I prepared a wonderful concoction from my wild garden. Rosemary ( which is known to bring down inflammaton and it refreshes the mind) Dried Damask rose , Marigold which is known for it’s healing and lavender , which has a calming property. I took a huge saucepan with this hand dried brew and I used it for the steam part of the session. This steam bath takes about 40 minutes. This is an integral part of the ceremony and because I am not in a steamy green hot country I aim to recreate the steam bath in a warm room in your house. I have a little dark portable tent and a portable sit-up tub. After a warming massage you enter the tent and sit in the tub. It is dark , warm and intentionally womblike. I am there with you and slowly pour the hot healing waters over you , allowing the steam and aromas to heat you and support your physical , emotional and for many spiritual process. We can be silent, hum, talk or sing whatever you feel appropriate in those moments for you.

This is one of my favourite parts of the ceremony as it feels so intimate and personal to the mother and healing . I sense i am deeply nurturing the person with humanity , care and respect for all that they have been through in the last months and possibly years.

With H, I provided the ceremony with another attendant. I love giving these sessions , I find having another attendant working with me very supportive for the space. Two people providing the wrapping , massage and even for carrying the items for the session makes it feel even more like a communal healing nurturing energy.

H wrote me a card ‘ Your support during our pregnancy, birth and beyond has been incredible, making all the difference to ensure we were as empowered and connected to prepare for and experiencing the birth of E……We couldn’t be more thankful for your knowledge,calm, compassionate and generous, beyond all expectations…..’

Of course I am delighted with this feedback but I more happy H achived the birth and postnatal recovery that felt right for her.

Nurturing Herbs for the Steam Bath, all hand picked from my garden…..