Historical, Sociological, Anthropological Perspectives on Birth and Support During the Birthing Process

Here is a basic overview that deals with these historical/sociological/ anthropological issues:
Childbirth is a uniquely FEMALE experience that is universal. Women in nations worldwide, regardless of cultural or religious background, experience childbirth. While many cultures may add rituals to the experience, which can sometimes add lot of meaning, interest, and spiritual significance to some, generally, the basis of childbirth, the contraction of the uterus, the expelling of a baby through the birth canal, or birth by c-section, will occur the same for all women, so it is something that joins women world wide, regardless of colour, race, religion or cultural background. Up until about 100-200 years ago, historical and anthropological evidence through illustrations, be they on cave walls or in books, sculptures, carvings, pottery, wall hangings or historical writings tell us 3 very distinct features about childbirth:
1. Women primarily birthed in upright positions.
-there was a variety of methods used to be upright either by self strength, or supported by something, or someone.

2. Women attended women.
-women eagerly supported one another through the birth process, often travelling long distances and staying for days or weeks to aid their birthing relatives or friends.
-Midwifery was a common word in birthing communities.
-Midwives were respected and valued.
-Daughters or the younger women in the community were often involved in the births and the process was familiar to them when it their turn to give birth.
-Until about 100-150 years ago, in most cultures, it was considered not appropriate for a male to be involved.

3. Birth took place at home.

"If we hope to create a non-violent world where respect and kindness replace fear and hatred, we must begin with how we treat each other at the beginning of life. For that is where our deepest patterns are set. From these roots grow fear and alienation, or love and trust." -Quote from Suzanne Arms

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TESTIMONIALS from trainings:
I truly loved the class and the way you shared your love and passion about prenatal yoga is very inspiring. You have given me the knowledge and I'm feeling confident that I could teach a prenatal class based on the Anahata prenatal yoga. I really appreciate the way you encourage ahimsa, as I feel this is very important aspect of my own yoga practice, I also try to teach this in all of the yoga classes I teach, but unfortunately I can see the ego getting it's way occasionally. -D.P., Yoga teacher, Lethbridge

Thanks so much for the workshop today - I really enjoyed it and learnt alot that I will use both personally and professionally. You are a fantastic wealth of knowledge & I'll look forward to crossing paths again soon! -S.H., Yoga Teacher, Auckland, NZ

"The Understanding the Female Pelvic Floor class offered by Marina Locke is both informative and experiential. Marina uses her knowledge as a birth expert to bring clarity to the anatomy of the pelvis and uses experiential exercises to bring awareness to one's body. The class is great for anyone seeking to gain a better understanding of their body." V. N., M.Sc., R.Psych, Calgary

"The Doula training that I received was invaluable...I was impressed with the depth of knowledge they showed and the practical exercises we went through to cement the learning, it wasn't just theory, it was very practical. Throughout the training, I got a real sense that childbirth was a normal, natural process and not one to be feared but one that can be celebrated and embraced. Yes there is pain, however Marina and Lyndsay showed many ways to support the labouring mother in the pain management. I thought the course was very well organised, it had a natural progression to it with all stages of labour represented equitably and methods of support shown for each." -V.T., Massage Practitioner, Christchurch, NZ

"I took the Mother and Baby Wellness intensive. The course consisted of pre and post natal massage, birth support massage and doula training, prenatal yoga teacher training, and infant massage. The course was very intensive and packed with great information. There was a lot of hands-on learning and discussion. I found the class structure to be intimate and comfortable. I also felt that both Marina and Maryanne made time for everyone’s questions. I learned anatomy of a pregnant woman, pain relief techniques during pregnancy and labor, yoga positions and massage for relaxation and specific problems during pregnancy, how to support a woman during labor, how to become a doula and set up a business, and how to teach parents to massage their babies. My ultimate goal is to become a midwife. The skills I learned in the Mother Wellness course I will use as a doula, midwife, and a future mom. The amazing women I met at the course are an inspiration to me and only increase my determination to continue my education to support birthing women and their families." -K.F., doula, Winnipeg, Manitoba

New Zealand Emergency Relief Therapists