a 3 hour workshop with Lisa Beraldo and Weronika Walker
Fee per couple: $175+hst Standard Rate | $205+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Prepare for a more connected, grounded and comfortable pregnancy, labour and birth with this workshop. The presence, participation and encouragement of a dedicated support person or birth partner is a powerful aid to labour and delivery. You and your partner will enhance your awareness of and trust in each other for the entire labour and birth process. This workshop will add several tools to your toolbox for having a more comfortable birth, and will build your confidence in applying the strategies you know. You’ll be empowered to cultivate greater relaxation, connection and understanding for birth.
The workshop will include:
- Valuable coping techniques using movements, yoga postures and breathing exercises for pain and discomfort during pregnancy and labour, including concrete ways for birth partners to assist with these techniques.
- Partner supports for changing positions, pressure and counter pressure, and ways to use props and hands on assistance to bring more ease and comfort during all stages of labour- early, active, transition and pushing phases.
- Discussion of induction and epidural in a way that educates and empowers the birthing person and their birth partner when considering these options, plus education about natural induction techniques and some non-pharmaceutical pain management options you might explore.
- Guided meditation and progressive relaxation techniques to use in pregnancy and birth, and some restorative yoga to end the workshop.
This workshop is available for all couples, or birth partners of pregnant people. Your support person or birth partner could also be a family member or close friend, not necessarily a romantic partner. The Branches is a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming organization, and we endeavor to be an anti-racist and size-inclusive space. Folks at any stage of pregnancy are welcome. No previous yoga experience necessary. The in-person workshop takes place in our 3rd floor studio (no elevator), however an online option is available as a more accessible option. Please register in advance to avoid disappointment- space is limited to 10 pairs. Access to the workshop recording and handouts are included.
Lisa Beraldo (she/her) leads The Branches pre- and postnatal programming. Lisa began practicing yoga when she was pregnant with her first child and knew she had found something that was necessary in her life - physically, emotionally and spiritually. Lisa has a BA in Child and Youth Counseling, and Family Work, and has experience working with children and families in a wide range of communities and settings. She completed her 250-hour Yoga Teacher Training at The Branches in 2020, and her Restorative Yoga Teacher Training in March 2023. In December 2023, she completed Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with the Prenatal Yoga Center. Off the mat, Lisa loves being outside in nature - hiking, camping and canoeing. Most importantly, spending time with her family - her partner and their three children.
Weronika Walker (she/her) is a birth and postpartum doula, an outdoor guide and a former paramedic and firefighter. Through her doula business, Fern & Nettle Doula Services, she provides compassionate care to families in the Waterloo Region. She believes that every person should have access to inclusive, full-spectrum reproductive health care and she strives to help her clients have the experiences they desire. Weronika loves witnessing people become parents and she feels grateful every time someone invites her to be a part of their journey. When not working as a doula, Weronika tries to go on as many outdoor adventures as she can, she reads passionately and collects wild plants for food and medicine.
Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the IN-STUDIO option, you are reserving an in-person spot at the studio. If you prefer to attend the workshop online, please register for the VIRTUAL listing as in-person spots are limited.