Everyone Should Have a Doula

I think everyone should have a doula.

Not just for birth.

Think about it, wouldn’t it be nice to have someone next to you, holding your hand, offering you food and water, telling you that you are strong and capable, empowering you to find your voice… not just during your birth but just like, everyday.

A doula for getting out of bed and meditating in the morning… “Toluwanimi, I know you are tired, but I see the strength within you to do this. Remember how good you are      going to feel when you are done!”

A doula for deciding what to make for dinner… “Do you need more information about the nutritional content of choice A vs choice B? What does your body say is the best option right now? Do you want to sit on the toilet for a few minutes and then decide?”

“Just one breath at a time Toluwanimi, this is hard and you are doing it! I believe in you!”

A doula for life, a doula for birth, a doula for death, and a doula for everything in between.

I love doulas. 

A little about my own doula path…

 I started my work as a doula almost 20 years ago.

 I worked as a staff doula at Lutheran Medical Center for almost 2 years

 I had a private doula practice for many years

 Worked in partnership with the amazing Whitney Nichols for 5 years

 I’ve been leading doula workshops with Penny Lyon for four years now

 I started a mentoring program for new doulas 4 years ago

 For a long time, all my best friends were doulas. (Who better to talk to and hang out with than someone whose entire being revolves around making sure your needs are met!)

 I love teaching new doulas and I learn so much about how to care for myself and others from them every time we are together.

I cannot really explain what I have learned over the years on this path. To say it is an honor to do doula work is an understatement.

Doulas change the world, and doula work changes your world.

This note is just a quick shout out to all the doulas. Whether you are doing this work now, or just ARE a doula in the way you serve those you love. I see you.

I see how you selflessly share your heart, your meal, your sleep, your words, your touch… every piece of you with those around you.

THANK YOU!!

I love you. This week and all the weeks