Birth spaces are sacred. I believe this so deeply that it has informed every aspect of my business from it's inception. I go over mom's preferences on lighting, noise, privacy breaks, desired shots. We meet before labor - to make sure everyone feels comfortable in each other's presence.
That being said: labor doesn't always have to be serious! Did you know that laughter is actually really good for loosening your body up and making it conducive to baby's big exit?
"Not only is humor good for the mind, it’s good for the body, especially in labor. Laughter increases the level of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers and relaxers. It decreases levels of unwelcome stress hormones and relaxes muscles. Laughter is like an internal massage. As the ancient writings of Proverbs advise, ‘A cheerful spirit is health to the body and a strength to the soul.’
Bring a bit of humor to your birth."
-From The Birth Book by William Sears, M.D. and Martha Sears, R.N.
When I catch some lighthearted fun, I race to capture it - because it's as integral to the birth story as all of the sacred moments!
Here are my top favorite shots so far!
Random Amish ducks hiding in the bottom of the doula's bag are great. What even? Where did he come from? Why does he have so much facial hair? WE HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS! And laughs.
This little love who was CONVINCED that the peanut ball was for her :D She told us there was a MONTER (monster) outside and she was going to get it - just as soon as she was done bouncing ;)
Here a friend came to visit and brought lunch (labor sustenance bringers ftw!) - she wasn't accustomed to birth-spaces and wasn't sure how to feel...but when we discovered the order was all wrong, she jumped right into fix it and made herself comfy on the birth ball! Her rapid turnaround had us all in stitches. Talk about stepping in and stepping up!
This dad was all fun and games (until the tears started upon seeing his little girl). He even had the doctor laughing! Mom was part amusement part consternation here...
This dad had the jokes on tap while their gestational carrier had her epidural placed...and we were placed behind a curtain.
Sometimes in labor you just have to tell Bird Box jokes. And sometimes doulas tell really funny jokes that cannot be repeated in polite company (often they are just what is needed) ;)
