Balancing Knowledge and Intuition
As a doula with a deep appreciation for both academic knowledge and lived experience, I recognize the critical role that learning and understanding plays in preparing for labour, birth, and parenthood.
The ability to comprehend the mechanics of pregnancy, from the physiological changes to the latest research on maternal and fetal health, is invaluable.
Yet, I’ve come to realise that this technical understanding, while essential, is not sufficient on its own.
In today’s world, we are often saturated with information. Books, articles, and expert opinions offer guidance on every aspect of pregnancy and childbirth. This abundance of knowledge is empowering, but it can also be overwhelming.
The focus on external knowledge can sometimes overshadow a different, yet equally important, kind of learning—one that is rooted in intuition and the deep connection a mother has with her own body.
My journey as a doula has been guided by a desire to balance these two forms of knowledge. While I hold the academic understanding of pregnancy and birth in high regard, I also recognize the immense wisdom arising within each mother. This inner knowledge, often overlooked in a society that prioritizes external validation, is crucial to the birthing process.
In my practice, I strive to create space for this balance. I encourage learning and intellectual exploration, but I also emphasize the importance of reconnecting with the body and listening to its cues. This holistic preparation honors the mind, the soul, and the body.
I believe that true preparation for birth comes from harmonizing book knowledge with this inner knowing. It involves not just understanding the mechanics of labour, but also trusting in the body’s innate ability to birth and in the mother’s instinctual wisdom. By tuning into this intuition and becoming in sync with the body, mothers can face the challenges of childbirth with a deeper sense of confidence.
While we are often told that knowledge is power, it’s essential to remember that there are different kinds of knowledge. As we prepare for one of the most transformative experiences, we must not only seek information but also re-learn how to trust ourselves.
This, I believe, is the key to a more empowered and mindful birth experience.
Do you want to read more about this? I strongly suggest “Birthing from Within” by Pam England.
Read HERE to learn more about birth art and HERE to discover my holistic birth preparation course BIRTH BASICS.
