is a unique, dynamic program of childbirth preparation designed to educate you and your partner for birth and parenting in a way that is personally relevant- emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Parents deserve support for any birth option which might be right for them
Classes are not outcome focused- we don't promise a particular type of birth if you 'just follow our instructions'. Instead, our time is focused on drawing on your own resources and innate knowledge; building on strengths, and deep exploration of yourself. You are prepared to "birth in awareness"- now matter where or how your birth unfolds.The essence of childbirth preparation is self-discovery, not assimilating obstetric information.
During labor, the part of your brain that takes in facts and figures will be unavailable to you- you'll be in 'Laborland'! So classes strike a balance between the practical information about what-where-why, and individual readiness.
Pain-coping practices work best when integrated into daily life, rather than "dusted off" for labor.
A large portion of every class is focused on practical, effective, hands-on pain coping practices; skills that will serve you not only during the intensity of labor and birth, but during parenting and the rest of your life, as well. Compassionate use of medical supports is explored in a factual realistic way.Childbirth is a profound rite of passage, not a medical event; even when medical care is part of the birth.
Parents-to-be who are birthing in awareness know that sometimes the unexpected happens in birth-without taking away from the sacred nature of birth. Classes will teach you to mobilize your coping skills, understand informed decision making, and do the "next best thing" in each moment of birth.
Heart of Birth provides one-on-one classes in the privacy and comfort of your own home.
~ 2.5-3 hours weekly
~ Plan on finishing class by your 38th week
~ Hands-on pain coping practices every class
~ Learn to identify and mobilize personal and external resources
~ Process-focused preparation, rather than outcome-focused
~ Practical learning balanced with personal exploration
~ Topics dynamic with individual and class needs
~ Special father/partner focus time
~ Postpartum reunion class
~ Birth support as available
~ $150 per couple
~ Class for those who have birthed before
~ Exploration of previous birth experience
~ Review and renewal of pain coping skills
~ $55 per couple
REQUEST A CLASS
Heart of Birth
charlene@heartofbirth.net
425.876.9997
Serving Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Brier, Lynnwood, Everett, and more in North King County & Snohomish County