Throughout history, women have supported other women during pregnancy,  childbirth, and postpartum.  For many women today, birth can be a lonely and frightening experience, attended by strangers.  The modern remedy for this tragic situation is the ‘doula’ – a knowledgeable, experienced companion who is trained to provide emotional and physical support, encouragement and wisdom for pregnant women and their families.  

In this workshop, the art of birth support and the sacredness of birth will be shared and celebrated.  Whether you are planning to work professionally as a doula, or want some understanding and skills to support a friend or sister in labor, or simply want to connect with the power, magic and mystery of the birth process, this workshop will be an extraordinary journey exploring the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of womanhood, pregnancy, and birth.

The workshop will combine lecture-based learning with experiential learning, movement, writing, dialog, art, meditation, ceremony, and ritual.  Time will be spent both in the classroom and in the belly of Mother Nature surrounding Breitenbush.  The workshop will be structured so that each day there is plenty of time for soaking, hiking, and enjoying the beauty of the retreat center.   An optional movie-night for viewing birth videos will also be offered.  Click here for a sample schedule.

Participants are required to read three books prior to attending the workshop.  Click here for pre-requisites.

This workshop has been approved as one step toward certification by DONA (DONA International, the world’s premier doula organization).

What is Breitenbush?  In a word:  Divine.  Breitenbush is a magical, sacred place that embraces many of the things I treasure:  the majesty of the natural world, the healing powers of mineral-laden hot springs, the vital need to produce and consume only organic food, and community-based  sustainable living.  For more information about the fabulous Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat & Conference Center, click here.