Yoni Co. in Northcote, Victoria | Naturopath

Yoni Co.

Locality: Northcote, Victoria

Phone: +61 428 318 775

Address: High Street 3070 Northcote, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.yonico.com.au

Likes: 215

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• Medical and health
• Alternative & holistic health service
• Naturopath
• Pregnancy care centre
• Womens health clinic

23.01.2022 Doulas rejoice! On call for a blooming beautiful Mama and officially able to stand beside her AND her partner in the birth space at @theroyalwomens whenever their almost ripe and ready bambino decides to join us Its been a time to say the least. I genuinely feel like I traversed through the Seven Stages of Grief as a Doula who was unable to physically hold hands and space for my clients in a hospital setting during the past few months of the pandemic - with changes s...till yet to come for certain birthing hospitals here in Melbourne. But we hold on to hope! That all birth spaces will soon follow suit and our metamorphosis of tactile and online support skills have pushed, moulded and shaped us to be the most present, intuitive and supportive that we have ever been, for the total wellbeing of our beautiful clients and their families that welcome us in x See more

22.01.2022 On-call for a beautiful Mama Under very different circumstances than my heart is used to, as I wont be with her physically as she births her baby in to the world, but will be wholeheartedly there in spirit and on the phone whenever she needs my gentle guidance and reminder that she is a powerhouse and she can do this. Loving on her today with bright blooms, a nutritiously dense meal and some gentle womb and nervous system supporting herbs to fill her with warmth and love ...and support in these final days or weeks. Support at the moment is needed by new families more than ever, as they choose to stay away from and ask their much needed loved ones to keep a distance for the sake of their family unit and community at large. Im in absolute awe of and aching for birthing people and growing families at the moment, who are facing so much uncharted territory with so much less hands-on support and guidance than most families before have ever known. From closures of new mothers groups to reductions in maternal health nurse visits in the first few weeks after birth, so much weight of parenthood is resting upon the sole shoulders of birthing people and their partners at this time, which is why every little gesture you can provide to lighten that load is so important, appreciated and essential to the physical and mental health of families. Reach out to a new Mama and let her know youre thinking of her. Order food to their house. Book them in to an online mothers group, buy them a Telehealth naturopathy session to support their health, or treat them with something comfortable you can have delivered like lush pyjamas or fresh sheets to make them feel held and nurtured while you cant be there with them physically See more

22.01.2022 The past 24 hours for birthing people in Melbourne has been a roller coaster. Weve just heard word that there was confusion surrounding the new rule for birth partners to leave the hospital 2 hours after their baby was born, leaving Mamas alone without their ultimate emotional comfort nearby and putting further pressure on already overworked midwives and hospital staff. If thats not postpartum anxiety, depression or PTSD in the making I dont know what is. The mental load... I am seeing forced upon pregnant people and new families by thoughtless government policies on a whim without consideration for their repercussions on maternal and community mental health at large is inhumane to say the least. They also havent made logical sense. Ive been speaking to Mamas Im currently supporting through this shit show and hearing other birth professionals, including midwives mirror my cries of anger and exasperation at the mental load this is placing on families during a time they should be focusing on building their own inner strength and confidence for the journey to parenthood ahead. Its HUGE! So many studies have shown stress hormones can cause a number of health issues for both mother and baby during pregnancy, labour and long term development if left to spiral out of control or remain unsupported. The way that mothers and families are being treated right now during COVID - distanced from their loved ones, maternal health nurses, community of mothers groups, constantly told different information about their birth rights and hospital policies, crippling anxiety induced from fear of not being able to have their partner by their side whilst recovering from the marathon of birth - makes me feel VERY strongly that new parents are one of the most completely fucked over demographics within the COVID response. Here is hoping that the tens of thousands of magnificent voices who petitioned against yesterdays decision are heard LOUD and clear. No mother or new parent deserves to be left alone. Growing a baby, birthing them and raising them during a pandemic is exhausting. Its HARD. I see you all, I am wrapping you in all of my love and I am here for you x See more

21.01.2022 My very snuggly happy place

21.01.2022 In the very early hours of this morning I drove to Bendigo Hospital to support my birthing client, but when I arrived was told by a midwife that I was unable to enter the birth space due to an enforced 1 support person rule as a result of coronavirus safety measures. It broke my absolute heart to not be there beside my mama as she laboured through the night with her incredible partner, whilst also understanding that measures do need to be taken at this time of uncertainty a...nd wide spreading infection. Its a wild fucking time. What was most concerning and disheartening is that the mama and her partner were not advised of this updated procedure when they called the hospital to inform they had gone in to labour, which meant that when they arrived to hospital they were presented with that sudden and stressful news, on top of the already physical and mental load that is labour. This morning Ive called @theroyalwomens who at present advised me that they do not have such a strict policy and are still allowing a 2 support person rule, however with social restrictions and health measures increasing daily, this could be subject to change within a 24 hour period. Birthing people and Doulas out there - I just wanted to let you know whats happening in some hospitals so that you arent shocked or put in to a state of stress or alarm if and when you do go in to labour in the next few weeks. Be informed and speak to your care providers if you are birthing in a hospital about their current and updated policies, as it could affect your birth preferences and mean that you need to roadmap some alternative preparation for feeling supported. In this time of great uncertainty, it is so important to remember that we are still part of such an incredible collective. A sense of community is more important now than ever, and I want to ensure all birthing people and workers feel like they are fully supported on their journey. We can absolutely make this work, just with a slightly different and creative tact - son if you feel like you want to chat, have any questions or just need to blow off some steam or want me to send you a virtual hug - I am here for you. Please reach out x See more

20.01.2022 my favourite kind of work interruption

20.01.2022 YONI CO(MMUINITY) The challenges and lack of face-to-face, hands on support offered to new Mamas and parents during this wild time are highly concerning and real, which is why I am going to share with you each and every week my favourite: online classes information sessions connection groups... that birth professionals are offering all around the world for birth, breastfeeding and postpartum support. I will post these in my stories and Highlights, which I will update each and every week until we shift back to our normal way of life. Right now, you need your COMMUNITY! You deserve to have constant support at a time when CONTINUITY IS QUEEN! If there are any particular kind of classes you feel you are needing, or if you are hosting an event/Zoom/class online and would like me to share it - please reach out You are not alone x

19.01.2022 Another Dad I love Have you ever seen a cluckier grandpa?! No pressure for me to bring babies into the family AT all. My heart is bursting at the seams with happiness for new parents here in Victoria who are FINALLY being reunited with the physical and emotional support they have so desperately craved and needed from loved ones in the tender, exhausting, mundane, sleepless, thankless, yet indescribably beautiful, intimate and irreplaceable moments that fill each day during the Fourth Trimester. Raising a child and thriving, not just surviving as parents truly takes the love and guidance of a village #reunitedanditfeelssogood #community #villagelife #postpartumsupport

19.01.2022 A Full Moon baby was born last night I shed a few tears on my drive home because due to current restrictions I wasnt able to be with my beautiful clients at the hospital they were birthing at. The silver lining of this pandemic keeping me from being with them was that they had worked so hard to prepare, educate and empower themselves for birth, knowing that I would likely not be beside them in the moments they welcomed their baby. It makes me so proud, shed a few happy t...ears and made it a little bit easier to drive away from them knowing that. Watching Mama labour at home, finding her rhythms and rituals through each wave of contractions whilst her loving partner held her, swayed with her and sat with her in the shower as I sprayed her back with comforting warm water and massaged her hips is one of the most beautiful things I get to witness as a Doula. The most intimate moments that I share with them at home made it bittersweet to not be by their side when they welcomed their beautiful baby into the world, but I am so grateful and honoured to have been with them at home as Mama powerfully progressed and in the early hours of this morning held her beautiful baby girl in her arms #birthdoula #melbournedoula #fullmoonbaby See more

18.01.2022 Celebrating this beautiful woman and her transformational journey to motherhood. Not long now Watching you and your baby bloom together through your pregnancy has been such an honour x

18.01.2022 I stood with tears blurring my eyes behind the camera of this love infused photo. It captures exactly what I saw in the first precious moments of watching these beautiful humans becoming parents and a family with their darling girl. The snap is hazy, just like the room was in the early hours of the morning as the sun crept up and through the windows - as we welcomed beautiful new life and all of our hearts were tender beyond words

18.01.2022 IMMUNE TIPS FOR MAMAS For both my pregnant and postpartum mamas, here are some important nutrients, foods and practices that you can easily add to your day to boost your immune system, fend off pesky virus and minimise the severity and duration of an infection: IRON is a key nutrient that helps our immune cells to grow and build a defence mechanism against nasty bugs and infections. It is also quickly depleted when breastfeeding, so adding some of the following foods can hel...p to boost your levels: leafy greens, seaweed, prunes, dried apricots, molasses, brewers yeast, nuts and seeds. VITAMIN C rich foods like these glorious heirloom tomatoes I found at the market are vital to have in your diet to increase iron absorption and also promote immunity whilst supporting your adrenal health. Try to include broccoli, tomatoes, capsicum, papaya, lemons and limes in your meals every day. PROBIOTIC rich foods promote a healthy gut flora which boost our immune system and improve our digestion. This helps us to have healthy and hopefully daily poos which remove toxins from our bodies! Add organic natural yoghurt (I loveee coconut), kefir, miso and fermented vegetables to your shopping list! HYDRATION is key! You need to drink at least 2.5 litres of water daily which helps to flush toxins from our system. Keep a large water bottle in your bag, by your bed and sip, sip, sip through the day, especially if you are breastfeeding. Herbal tea is the perfect hydration booster with so many benefits including to help us relax simply by taking a 10 minute breather. Think nettle, lemon balm and rose hip right now! VITAMIN D is produced by your body when sunlight hits your skin, which helps the immune system to fight infection. Sitting as nudey rudey as possible in the sun for 10-15 minutes per day (which is the sun smart amount of time) will help to top up your levels and bring some nurturing warmth to your nervous system. #melbournedoula #holisticnutrition #naturopath #womenshealth #postpartum #pregnancyhealth #nourishingtraditions

17.01.2022 There is so much science behind Herbal Medicine Bachelor degree certified Naturopaths spend 4 years (plus the rest) deep diving into biochemistry, pathophysiology, biology, nutritional therapeutics, herbal botany and pharmacology. Its a pretty brain busting degree which I know all my fellow Naturopaths out there will agree that saps away large chunks of your soul while youre in the depths of it PRAISE BE is all I and my under eye bags can say that those formative yea...rs of learning are over, but the self development and delving that continues in to the art of best clinical practice and herbal dispensing never ends. Its something that stokes a very big fire in my soul and mixing up beautiful brown bottles of herbs for clients is so cathartic and exciting, every.single.time. Herbal medicine works differently for every single person, which is why no two mixes are the same for each of my clients based on how I come to understand their body and its intricate needs during our consultations. Me and my herbs are available to support you every Saturday from @beingwell__ in Prahran or via Zoom See more

17.01.2022 What a year. Turbulence and total surrender for birthing people who have admirably owned pregnancy and their forever postpartum under the most altered and warped of realities. So much disconnect, both physically and emotionally from the care and guidance of birth professionals, loved ones and community. For many, our hands have been tied by the explosive brutality of this pandemic - yet this year I’ve caught myself at loss for words towards many individuals and institutions w...ho have lacked true empathy and humanity to the needs of THE most vulnerable - birthing people and their babies who rely on feeling held and heard in the moments surrounding birth to set them up for a fruitful future. For families and their mental health and the future of their wellbeing and happiness and existence. I know it’s been a rough year for everyone, but I get SO emotional thinking about how quickly humans have been able to dismiss the immediate cries of new families in their immediate surroundings for the hypothetical outcome of our species at large due to COVID. As a naturalist - I think it’s safe to say Mother Nature has already spoken on that front. My heart, and those of all birth professions I know have been pulled into a million pieces and directions this year as space holders - we truly experienced what it was like for our validity as essential birth workers to be sent for trial. It’s been one helluva year for surrender, but through it I can only raise my glass and sing the loudest praise and admiration to those of you who have grown, birthed and raised a whole other human without the physical support of your village. Not out of choice, but out of necessity. Your softness and your ferocious strength as parents is unparalleled. I’m currently on call for the last of my ripe Mamas who are birthing into a lighter chapter of 2020 It’s time to slow down now, despite the outside worlds increasing pace. I’m hanging up my Doula duties from now until late February, during which my body clock will strike 30 and I hope to emerge with a fire raging in my belly and wind to that flame from some much needed down time with my loved ones. I can’t wait to hold you in 2021 See more

17.01.2022 Ive been driving around today thinking about my own personal ideas surrounding success and drive. As my own passions and business grow and I find myself stepping into the space of being my own boss, the concept of being career driven is not really something I have ever aspired to be. I aspire to do SO much to continuously learn in this life and grow my business babies and give back and support my incredible clients (and hopefully feel financially comfortable as a result ...of it all), but what I want to always be first and foremost whilst working my ass off to do what I love each and every day - is to be change-driven and community- driven and love-driven. Whats your personal view of success? How do you measure it? Ive hit a stage in my life where the perceived need or pressure to drive myself in directions that dont serve me or my happiness well is becoming a non-negotiable. I no longer think of age brackets or time frames as a measure of success in life - not that I ever really played by those rules after spending the better half of my twenties as a professional student, living from pay check to pay check with little money left for savings afterwards Im an almost 30 year old Doula who doesnt have children. And I fucking love it! This is where I want to be right now and it will be a few more years until I settle down in the traditional sense. The working space Ive now found myself in drives me, because it also fuels my entire soul and connects me to a community of incredibly charismatic, heart-centred, like- minded, purpose driven humans. Waking up each day knowing that I have to pay my own tax and superannuation and sort my own books and hustle my own clients is petrifying in some quieter moments of self doubt, but for the most part its exhilarating and liberating and has forced me to be dynamic and independent and creative and collaborative. We CAN be driven by so much more than a career. Combining our passions with our purpose whilst being holistic in our pursuits and bringing communities together at the heart of all things work and pleasure is a way forward that I hope we continue to shift towards, together. Less can definitely be more x See more

17.01.2022 I’ve intimately watched these two share a breastfeeding journey for close to two years Day and night - rain, hail or shine - for better or for worse, at the end of many a hard work day and in the wee star filled hours of the morning. I’ve witnessed the deep, love fuelled connection and the claustrophobia. Rushing home to provide physical and emotional nourishment and comfort, whilst in some of the most intense moments wishing with every fibre to have space and to not be tou...ched. The cellular pleasure and the excruciating pain of feeding a whole other human with the golden elixir of life. Now that @jessica_prescott_ has come full circle and is starting her bittersweet journey of weaning Jude, I thought it time to build my own confidence and knowledge of how to TRULY support a breastfeeding Mama and to step up for my clients by starting my own journey of becoming a professionally trained Breastfeeding Support Practitioner Today, I confirmed my enrolment with @newbornmothers which will see me deep dive into the evidence-based social, cultural and emotional aspects of breastfeeding so that I can provide my Doula clients with the essential tools and skills they need and deserve to feel supported, held and heard during their own breastfeeding journey. I am SO. BLOODY. EXCITED and my heart is so full I want to cry I’ve sat beside so many Mamas I support wishing that I had more qualified knowledge to provide them as they’ve started their feeding journey - combining uphill battles with the most beautiful wins - but baby, I am ready to throw myself into this course and start 2021 with SO much more knowledge and confidence in supporting Mamas I love. Let the study times flooooooooow #breastfeeding #lactationsupport #postpartumdoula #naturopath #melbournedoula #holisticdoula #breastfriends #milkygoodness #tata #letitflow See more

16.01.2022 My office for the past 12 hours #birthdoula #melbournedoula #birthday #hellobaby

16.01.2022 My heart is SO happy receiving messages like this from beautiful women I support on their reproductive journey. The medicinal magic of HERBS Period pain and menstrual issues can be an absolute bitch, but there are SO many wonderful ways that nutritional, herbal, dietary and lifestyle support can help to shift inflammation, pain, hormonal imbalances, liver detoxification, gut and mental health for good I believe with every inch of my being that and your body deserve to feel positive and empowered during all phases of your cycle #womenshealth #herbalmedicine #naturopathy #menstrualmovement #periodpain #empoweredwomen #yonilove #wombhealth #holisticnutrition

16.01.2022 This is a dad I love absolutely high on oxytocin and adrenalin not long after his son was born Mama had some really special skin to skin time straight after birth, but unfortunately she was taken to theatre to have her retained placenta removed. This left us hanging out together in the birth suite. I’ve hung out alone with partners and their babies quite a few times before and after the birth - due to several retained placentas, sitting together outside the theatre as Mum ...is prepped for a Cesarean, driving to the hospital during a home birth transfer. These times are for me so sacred as a Doula to watch, listen and absorb how partners respond to and feel watching their child enter the world through the body of their lover. I get to know them as they truly are - human and humbled. All bullshit slips away and I truly see that person in all of their incredible strength and vulnerability. There is literally nothing that brings more humans to their knees and their most honest, open self than when their child is born. I recently spoke to a dad called Nick about the emotional aspect of becoming a father, who told me that he doesn’t think men have enough support: For fathers, this is a huge responsibility and you feel at the time that you’re completely alone and not sure if you’re doing or saying the right things. You really question yourself and often feel like you don’t know what you should be doing. Outside of family, there isn’t really a support network for fathers who might just need to call and ask someone - am I doing the right thing? Or is this how everyone feels? Partners need and deserve to feel held and heard stepping into parenthood because they are SO essential to the emotional and physical dynamics of a new family. It’s well and truly time for Dads to feel essential and prepared for parenthood. I’d love to hear from more Dads and how your partner felt in the moments, days and weeks after birth #newlife #parenthood #dontforgetdads #fatherhood #birthpartner #birthcommunity #melbournedads See more

15.01.2022 Look who I got to spend my morning with Adore my Doula babies and their Mamas so much. Connecting with real conversation and cooking and cuddles is more important now than ever. My love language is physical touch, which Im finding very foreign to do the complete opposite of during this current climate of sterility and social distancing. Im taking one for the team and doing it for the most part of my day to day life, but Im also taking my role and privilege as a birth ...worker and carer very seriously right now and ensuring that I still provide touch and connection to the birthing people and families who need it most right now. Im separated from my own family by thousands of kilometres right now and it does get me feeling pretty sad some days to think about how long it might be before I wrap my arms around them again. Wrapping my arms around this little cheeky chunk and her Mama today was the ultimate home comfort #melbournedoula #postpartumdoula #fourthtrimester #holistichealth #naturopath #bambino #community See more

15.01.2022 Dads have been sharing their experiences of stepping in to fatherhood with me this past week and it has been SO insightful. I’ve asked dads if they feel comfortable with me sharing their words and most are, which is even more powerful as it is getting the conversation flowing. When I asked a dad called David if he had experienced any difficult emotions during the birth of his daughter, he explained a cascade of interventions in his own words: They did not stop to inform me ...or my wife what it was or why they were giving it to her. I had to stand up and intervene. I yelled stop, and asked them what they were doing. The doctor then explained that she was going to administer a drug that would stop the contractions which was causing our daughter stress and lowering her heart rate. This prompted one of the other doctors in the room to suggest turning off the synthetic oxytocin which was helping to induce the strong contractions in the first place. Thankfully this worked and they did not need to administer the drug, which likely would have resulted in my wife needing a caesarean. Overall this was a traumatic experience made worse by the lack of acknowledgement of my active involvement in the birth. This was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life and even now when I think about it I am brought to tears. What partners of birthing people need is a place to feel safe and validated to support with confidence and respect. To be encouraged to trust their gut and act on it. To speak up when they are feeling something, anything. To feel like that can ask the stupid questions, which aren’t stupid at all. We live in a culture in which we have been fed so much bullshit (or been told to leave it to the professionals), to a point where birth talk and the raw reality of procreation and labour and birth and postpartum and relationships and parenthood is warped. Societal views on gender roles also play a HUGE part of this narrative, and it needs to change. Fathers are and want to talk about it. I want to talk about it with you - so please please please reach out if you or your partner would like to share their experience #fatherhood #dontforgetdads #birthpartner See more

14.01.2022 At home with friends Good food is the spice of life

13.01.2022 Yesterday, one of our blooming pregnant @_mamagoodness_ customers came to pick up her order and informed us that her waters had broken only an hour before coming to see us An hour later while I was out and about delivering our packs, my ripe and almost ready Doula client called to let me know that a big chunk of jelly had turned up in her knickers, so we roadmapped what can unfold now that shes losing her mucus plug. Days like yesterday fill my guts with so many butterfl...ies and heart with a whole heap of gratitude for what Ive found myself doing in this life. Up to my eyeballs in cookie dough that helps get breastmilk flowing, developing some serious RSI after hand-writing love letters to new Mamas (and sometimes just amazing non-parenting humans who want to try our lasagne!), getting to know all the beautiful back streets and side alleys of North/South/East/West Melbourne as we deliver food to growing families and communities - all the while being welcomed with open arms and hearts in to the lives and homes of birthing people to stand beside them in their most intimate moments. Together we tearfully, excitedly, lovingly, blearily eyed, exhausted, and exhilarated welcome new life in to the world. Does anyone else feel like theyre having an out of body experience whilst watching birth unfold? What a wild fucking ride!!! See more

13.01.2022 I love Yonis! I love your Yoni and would love to help you love on yourself from your nose down to your toes with optimal TLC, understanding and the right amount of bits, tits, herbs and nutrients that your body and its intricate parts need and deserve to thrive Im now offering IN PERSON consults at @beingwellhc in Prahran on Friday and Saturday afternoons, as well as Online consults for those of you who (rightly so) want to stay in your pyjamas at home or who live further afield Here for you from menstruation to motherhood, with all your womb wellness queries or concerns x #womensnaturopath #yoni #wombwellness #naturopath #nutritionist #holistichealth #integrativewellness #menstruation #motherhood #pregnancy #postpartum

11.01.2022 Ive witnessed some seriously beautiful and emotional skin-to-skin or kangaroo care between partners/fathers and their babies in the immediate hours following birth - watching them share and experience potent emotional and hormonal bonds and foundational connection. Some out of biological necessity as a birthing Mama has needed to be taken to surgery for a retained placenta or postpartum haemorrhage - where just the partner, bub and I we areleft alone in the birth space and... the non-birthing parent takes their top off without a moment of hesitation and holds their vernix covered newborn to their chest, covered in warm blankets and sits back talking to them gently and reassuringly. @the_birth_house recently shared that Dr. Nils Bergman presented research showing that just 30 minutes of skin to skin with the non-birthing parent actually rewires their brain. Mothers have the advantage of natural hormonal changes during and immediately following birth, especially the hormone Oxytocin, to help their maternal instincts kick in. For partners, when they spend time skin to skin with their newborn, hormonal changes occur including a rise in Dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for many things including pleasure, and a rise in Dopamine plus the increased Oxytocin means that a parents brain creates a positive association with close contact with their baby - showing that skin to skin helps natural parenting skills to kick in. Not surprisingly, studies have also found that non-birthing parents reported feeling significantly more in control of their abilities and at ease when they were more involved in caring for their infants

11.01.2022 Herbs for my honeys I am supporting a number of beautiful ladies via Telehealth on their health and menstrual journeys right now, both here in Melbourne and interstate which is such a joy to connect with women near and far at a time when physical distance is the norm, yet physical and mental health is more important than ever I just bottled up a few orders that Im posting out tomorrow - including a period-pain mix and a nervous system soothing bottle of beautiful herbs, which I can do for you if you are interested in being guided to understand your cycle and body on a deeply intimate level. This work makes my heart so happy and full Reach out if you would like my support in optimising your well-being x

10.01.2022 As a Doula, Im often the one behind the camera as new life enters the world - very emotionally and ecstatically observing the momentous events unfolding before me. Its an utter privilege to be invited in to the most intimate and personal of spaces, where my whole focus is on my birthing client and their family - allowing this sacred time to be theirs completely. A Mama I love sent me this beautiful photo this morning to remind me of the breathtakingly intimate moments we sh...ared together some moons ago This rare snap that includes me, taken by the most supportive Papa in the minutes after welcoming their beautiful baby makes me so teary with happiness and with love at what had just unfolding in front of me. I felt so much awe, contentment and softness in this very moment for Mama, her birth experience and her now complete family. The beautiful end to a powerful, exhausting, soul fulfilling journey See more

09.01.2022 This is what I feed to Mamas I support. Do you know how many nutrients you need to fuel yourself and your baby during pregnancy and the postpartum in order to thrive? Hint: Its a SHIT TONNE This is where the mind boggles at how Mamas think they should be able to hold it all down, maintain their pre-baby energy, regain their sex drive, not feel like their emotions have strapped themselves into a rollercoaster, have radiant skin and be able to do a HIIT Pilates class three... times a week on top of caring for a little person 25/7 - all while eating a few soggy mouthfuls of wheatbix and a cup of lukewarm tea by lunchtime. What you ACTUALLY need is to snack and hydrate regularly (yes I mean most times your baby eats through the day and night, no joke). Think easy to prep and reach for: nutrient dense full of healthy fats and protein lots of colourful, seasonal veggies warming and easy to digest Ensuring you get key Mama fuelling vitamins and minerals your body needs to power on through motherhood is essential for regulating your blood sugar reducing stress hormones promoting sleep onset increased, regular energy and memory healthy thyroid and hormone health Sometimes food alone doesnt cut it if youre majorly depleted from years of mothering and feeding everyone before yourself - which is where seeing a qualified Mama-focused Naturopath like myself will ensure you are being boosted with essential nutrients found in top quality, Practitioner Supplements that are prescribed based on your individual needs. Look after yourself Mama, because when you thrive - so too will your family and village at large

09.01.2022 Nudey sunrise jump into the cleansing Cancer New Moon ocean on Winter Solstice morning

09.01.2022 The honour is all mine #heartwork #birthdoula #holdingspace #birthspace #theonlywayoutisthrough

09.01.2022 This morning I spent several hours in the shower with a birthing Mama, using the warmth of the water over her belly, legs and back to soothe the intensity of contractions she was riding. It was her favourite place to sit, squat and stand while her partner and I took turns under the water with her Last night, knowing that I would be joining her, I took a long, hot shower myself which is one part of my pre-birth rituals that I do whenever I know a baby is on the way. I stand... under the running water and say hopeful wishes and send thoughts and love out to the birthing person and their baby, which connects me to them mentally before I am with them physically. It clears my head and naturalises any thing that I do not need to take in to the birth space with me. I wash my own day, thoughts and energies away and reset myself to step in to their zone with nothing but positive intention and focus on them. Our bodies are made up of close to 70% water, which makes sense that it feels so natural deep in my being to incorporate it in to every one of my birth journeys - even if its just me immersing myself before going to support another. Water is so cleansing. It promotes the body and mind to find a neutral space. In it I feel personally and see so many Mamas finding themselves able to float above whilst grounding in the present. Sound disappears and the mind becomes clearer and more intentional. It is the simplest, purest birth tool that can be used in any birth space See more

09.01.2022 UMAMI TAHINI GOJI SLICE Another bloody delish treatie that Ive been making for Mamas recently. This one was inspired by the moreish @kenkokitchen Breakfast Bar, but I just threw in whatever I had at home in my pantry (and you literally do just throw things in a bowl and mix, its that easy). SUPER nutrient dense, full of the good fats and the perfect amount of sweet and salty for that umami flavour - 1/3 cup tahini ... - 1/2 cup rice malt or raw local honey - 40g cacao butter - large pinch of flakey sea salt In a small pot on a low heat, gently melt all of these together. In a large mixing bowl, combine: - 1 cup puffed brown rice - 1 cup puffed quinoa - 1/4 cup gojis - 1/4 cup cacao nibs - 1/3 cup toasted pepitas - 1/3 cup toasted cashews Pour the melted wet ingredients into the bowl of puffed stuff and stir to coat and combine thoroughly. Line a square or rectangular baking tin with baking paper (I just use a banana bread tin), and pour the mixture into the tin and press down firmly to make a dense slice. You can sprinkle sesame seeds or a little extra sea salt over the top - and if you wanted to use extra nuts or even cranberries to replace gojis before combining it all that would be delish. Pop in the fridge for an hour (I sometimes throw it in the freezer too) and enjoy! X See more

08.01.2022 Hi, Im Vaughne Naturopath by day Doula by night I use my bachelor qualifications in Health Science alongside my certification as a Holistic Doula to support you through every step, leap and milestone of your reproductive journey.... From menstruation to pregnancy, the postpartum and beyond, my passion for celebrating womanhood keeps me dedicated to always learning and working hard to understand what really matters and what works when it comes to holistic health. Using nutritional and herbal supplementation, alongside relevant pathology referrals, food plans and lifestyle recommendations, I completely customise the support I offer based on your current health challenges and wellness goals. After all, no two yonis are the same! My offerings include 1:1 Naturopathy consults every Saturday and personalised Birth and Postpartum Doula support. If you are having a baby in 2021, I now have openings in my diary to guide and support your family in February + March Reach out if you have any questions x #naturopath #birthdoula #postpartumdoula #melbournedoula #reproductivehealth #nutritionist #holistichealth #motherhood #pregnancywellness #preconception #naturalhealth

07.01.2022 Just a reminder to all of you after this year that dreams really do come true

06.01.2022 Stop asking people who have never been where youre going for directions. Whether or not you like it, when you are a birth or health care provider, you are a LEADER in your community, and your community is looking at you as a LIVING EXAMPLE. A living example of how to caretake and protect LIFE. When we do our work in this way, in our OWN way, the fullness of who we are can most deeply nourish the Mothers and families we are serving, and also most deeply nourish ourselves and our own lives. THIS is true abundance. Words by the mother of all others @innatetraditions

06.01.2022 This was me yesterday enjoying some Autumn sun whilst waiting in the car for a Mama as she took her Bub for his six week check-up at the GP I couldnt go in with them because of current restrictions, but being there for the drive to and from was comfort for all of us. Thursday mornings are ours to hang and have been since just before this wild time began, so being able to continue to share the load, step in to their space of extreme solitude that is forced on all new fami...lies right now and offer my help around the house, bring coffee, cook family meals for the weekend, chat about feelings and fun things and baby things and shared interests is such a beautiful part of my week that brings normalcy to all of us. Being with my clients physically during their birth isnt always possible, but Im absolutely still supporting in a variety of considered and careful ways - in whichever way we agree is safe - because Doulas ARE an essential part of the parenting journey right now. Its a tag team effort with other maternal health and birth workers, but we are a cog in the wheel that is fighting hard to keep families feeling held and heard at this disjointed time. In whatever way I can, I feel so lucky to be able to share these wildly weird, testing, tender, sad, strengthening times with families right now See more

05.01.2022 One week since being immersed in this beautiful space with a Mama who laboured deep in to the night, and as the sun rose across the valley and through those bathroom windows birthed her baby girl in to the hands of her adoring partner The world is shifting around us in a confounding way that most of us have never experienced in our lifetime- yet nature continues its cyclical pattern, the sun and moon continue to rise and fall in the sky and babies are born each and every ...day as they always have and always will do. Passion and love still fuel this world to conceive, grow and bring our babies here, just as passion and love drive the work that Doulas do to ensure families feel assured, confident, empowered, educated and more supported than ever as they navigate the changing landscape of birth. We can and will still hold you tremendously on this journey - perhaps more now than ever as we delve in to the most innovative and intuitive ways to ensure you know and flex your rights, your options, your voice and your fuck yes and your fuck no muscles when your gut tells you so. Physical separation at birth from your Doula does not mean lack of support. We have and always will be working tirelessly in the background - calling you, messaging you, cooking you nourishing food so that you can come home to comfort and function properly through your early days as a parent, changing your sheets to ensure you sleep as soundly as possible, feeding your pets so you dont have to worry about them, tidying your house so you can rest and repair without having to stress, answering all of your niggling concerns and questions and always providing a warm cup of tea and ear to listen, hear you, hold you and assure you that youre doing the most incredible job you have ever done. We are always here, just as we always have been for you, especially at this time See more

05.01.2022 My blood boils and mind BOGGLES! Yet another major physical and emotional setback for birthing people to grapple with and process here in Australia, with @ranzcog , the peak body for OBGYNs stating that all use of water SHOULD NOT be used as a comfort measure during labour in COVID-19 hotspots. As a Doula supporting Mamas here in Melbourne during lockdown, this decree is highly alarming, disheartening and goes against countless studies and what I have witnessed first hand w...hilst supporting women during labour: that water is one the THE MOST EFFECTIVE non-pharmacological methods of pain relief available. The substantiating evidence behind this no-water directive - that eliminating water will reduce the risk of COVID transmission - is next to null and void. The Australian College of Midwives has released vital information noting the lack of evidence that COVID is a waterborne virus. This means that birthing people due to labour and birth over the next 5 weeks of stage 4 lockdown (and potentially beyond) are not only faced with reduced prenatal appointments, limited support people in the birth space, reduced visiting hours following birth by their primary support person, minimised postpartum home visits by maternal health professionals and no in-person visits from their loved ones to support them in the most tender, emotional and support needing time of their lives - but they NOW are facing having the most effective and vital aspects of their already minimised birth preferences in a hospital setting taken away from them. No wonder home birth enquiries are skyrocketing! Heres a question: What about showering after birth? When a partner has gone home to rest (or more likely is asked to leave due to restrictions), are the very same midwives who werent allowed to support a labouring Mama in the shower - allowed to HELP her shower to get clean and comfortable? I will be writing to RANZCOG on this matter and urge any and all of you to do the same for all unsubstantiated restrictions being placed on birthing people right now. Of ALL people, we need to be supporting mothers and families more than anyone right now x See more

04.01.2022 Good morning! Here is me and my most recent mug shot showing the other side of what I do when Im not being a Doula - which is offering my support as a Naturopath to women, birthing people, couples and mothers through their reproductive journey. I wanted to let you know that I have now opened up space on Saturday afternoons starting in May for one-on-one consultations via Zoom and will hopefully be able to see you face-to-face soon! From menstruation to motherhood I have ...the deepest passion for encouraging you to understand your own body and the journey it has been on. I focus my energy on treating you as the incredible individual that you are - which comes from a place of adoring holistic health, studying a Bachelor of Health Science degree that taught me to consider and treat the body as a highly sensitive and intricate sum of all its systems and parts - alongside years of witnessing womens bodies opening up for birth in their own beautifully unique way My areas of special interest include period pain, hormonal imbalances and womb wellness, preconception care, pregnancy support, post natal depletion and rebalancing mood, energy and hormones through parenthood. I strive to create a safe space for you to feel heard, supported and encouraged to thrive. As a Naturopath, I use nutritional and herbal medicine, diet assessment and lifestyle advice to help you achieve your goals. Most importantly, I will educate you on understanding your own health concerns, the language of your own body and empower you to make changes so that you have control over your wellness. I would love to get to know you and your body! Reach out if you have any questions or would like to join me for a session soon

03.01.2022 Man looking at the origin of the world #jeanbaptistemondino #loveyourmother #yonilove

02.01.2022 These beautiful birth visuals - a curated collection of heart holding images and mantras was hung in the shower by a Mama I supported during the birth of her daughter and focused on exactly what she envisioned helping her mind to be quiet, her body to open and her baby to descend Visualising blue. Wild rambling spaces and flowing bodies of water. Gentle caresses from her partner while submerged and floating. Every mama is different in her methods of going within herself -... some love to lose themselves in images and printed words that remind them of their strength and softness, while others melt inwards to their minds eye which allows them to visualise places and phrases they’ve practiced through meditations and mindfulness. Many can and do combine the two - using time between surges to come back to earth and ground themselves with the hands of their birth partners, staring intently at their birth board before transcending into the waves of contractions - swaying to an internal beat and humming their beautiful birth song Whenever you see something that feels really special to you and makes you feel empowered, excited or in love with pregnancy and birth - a photo of water, flowers ripening and opening, another person birthing or holding their baby, a quote that encourages you to calm down, soften and soothe - save it on your phone or computer and create yourself a birth wall to come home to during labour #birthprep #calmbirth #doulasupport #birthdoula #birthsong #birthstory See more

02.01.2022 Missing holding all my babies this tightly - big and small

02.01.2022 I made this Salted Cacao Hempseed Brownie bad boy for one of my postpartum Mamas yesterday, and let me tell you it is dense and nutritious and delicious! Every new Mama deserves treats, which this ticks ALL the boxes for with its crispy corners and soft chocolate centre and sprinkling of flakey salt on top. Its also gluten free, dairy free and refined sugar free - packed full of fibre from flaxmeal, protein from almond/Brazil/cashew butter and magnesium from cacao and 70...% dark chocolate. Hemp seeds add a plant powered boost of omegas - making it the kind of decadent tasting snack that is actually super nutrient dense and wont spike your blood sugar like your average brownie (and this is something I think is SUPER important in the Fourth Trimester when your body is healing and hormones are regulating themselves again). Happy to share this recipe with anyone who wants to bake it for a Mama they love (aka yourself!) x See more

02.01.2022 What are your feelings about death/abortion/loss Doulas? Im considering delving in to these avenues of support further. Ive been to more funerals in my life than weddings and its just a part of my fabric - I lost my best friend when I was 6 and then again when I was 24. Death to me isnt something Im scared of and I find solace in speaking freely about it. Equally is a magnetism to be and feel with others through their loss. Its part of life, as prominent in all of ou...rs as birth is - because I guess the the cold hard fact is that we are all born and then we all die. I had the most incredible conversation on the weekend with a woman whos twin died when they were 17. We cried together and spoke about how it feels to have lost someone that we are so close with, so intimate, and how knowing someone who has died almost makes you part of a club. Im sure to some people that sounds kind of messed up, but theres honestly a feeling when you cross the threshold of losing someone suddenly (in a different way than losing a grandparent to old age), that changes your entire being. It feels like your DNA becomes rewired. Theres life before, and then life after, and to me, I never want to go back to not knowing that feeling. It absolutely shreds you to pieces beyond what anyone could ever prepare you for. I wouldnt wish that feeling upon anyone, but then I also strangely feel like it has made me a better person? A deeper person. Your heart literally breaks in to 1028274 pieces and then rebuilds itself. Its never the same, just as a broken piece of pottery that gets glued back together never is, but the empathy that comes with it and my outlook on life is clearer. Im SO emotional now and I dont know if its because of losing people, or through age, but my heart often feels physically tender. Im affected by other peoples moods and energy constantly. My heart and chest react immediately when someone else is feeling shit or I read bad news. Im sure theres many of you out there who feel the same, but I am also so interested in breaking down the taboo and starting conversation about how dignity in death and loss - because we should never do it alone See more