Sukina
I still remember, many years ago, talking for the first time with a woman who had birthed at home. She stood in her lounge room, legs apart and knees bent, showing how her baby had come out. “Gravity” she praised. That interaction widened my view of birth. Later, I met more women who had birthed at home, some without medical assistance, and it came to feel like the most natural, normal and ideal way to bring a baby into this world. I kept educating myself through podcasts, videos and books, so when I became pregnant my preparation flowed naturally from what I had already gathered.
My partner was supportive of my choice, but also felt a weight of responsibility as the only other person present, juggling logistics, providing emotional support, and trusting his own intuition.
Halfway through pregnancy, a homebirthing friend told me about Calmbirth and spoke so highly of it. She said it had helped her partner gain confidence and step fully into the preparation for their baby’s birth. I was a little reluctant at first, finding there were already so many resources available about birth, but her strong recommendation along with my wish to be fully aligned with my partner made us book the class. We attended 4 evening sessions at Cherie’s place. That dedicated time as an expecting couple in a cosy, caring environment was exciting and grounding. It gave us a sense of safety to know that we were receiving a complete package of the most helpful and essential information about birth.
Two months later, I laboured through the night to give birth to our baby girl by dawn. I felt calm and focused, totally in my body. Most of the time I could ride the waves rather than be crushed by them. I’m glad Cherie reiterated the benefits of a birthing ball because leaning over it was the only comfortable position for me ! Also, she explained the physiological processes graphically with props which was super helpful. Thanks to that, I was able to connect the sensations of each contraction to their purpose, which in turn allowed me to relax into them more deeply.
Joining Cherie’s classes also meant being adopted as “one of her Calmbirth couples” - welcomed into her woven network of support that she nurtures with loving attention for the best interest of all. We are very grateful.
Alizee & Kael