​Midwives have been helping women through pregnancy and childbirth for centuries. Traditionally, midwives were experienced women in the community who provided support and care for expectant mothers. However, with the advent of modern medicine, the role of midwives has evolved, and there are now two distinct types of midwives - certified professional midwives and certified nurse-midwives.
On the other hand, a "birthkeeper" is a relatively new term that has emerged in recent years to describe individuals who provide support and care for expectant mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. While some birthkeepers may have received some form of training, there is no formal certification or accreditation process for birthkeepers.
The main difference between a certified professional midwife (CPM) and a birthkeeper is the level of training and education they receive. CPMs undergo a rigorous certification process that includes extensive academic study, clinical experience, and passing a national certification exam. CPMs specialize in out-of-hospital birth, such as home births, and have the skills and knowledge to manage a wide range of complications that may arise during labor and delivery.
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed both nursing and midwifery education. CNMs are trained to provide a wide range of reproductive health services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery support, postpartum care, and gynecological care. They can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, birth centers, and homes.
In contrast, birthkeepers are not required to have any formal training or certification. Some may have completed a short course or workshop, while others may have learned through personal experience. Birthkeepers typically offer emotional support and guidance to women during pregnancy and childbirth. They may provide advice on nutrition and exercise, offer relaxation techniques during labor, and assist with breastfeeding and postpartum care.
Another key difference between CPMs and birthkeepers is the level of medical care they can provide. CPMs and CNMs have the training and experience to manage many medical complications that may arise during labor and delivery. They are trained to recognize the signs of potential complications and can administer medications, perform emergency procedures, and make referrals to other medical professionals if needed.
In contrast, birthkeepers are not qualified to provide medical care. They may provide emotional support and guidance, but they do not have the training or authority to administer medication, perform medical procedures, or make clinical decisions.
In conclusion, while both certified professional midwives and birthkeepers provide support and care for expectant mothers, there are significant differences in their training and scope of practice. CPMs and CNMs are licensed healthcare professionals who undergo rigorous training and certification to provide comprehensive care to women during pregnancy and childbirth. In contrast, birthkeepers may have varying levels of training and experience and are not qualified to provide medical care. It is important for expectant mothers to carefully consider their options when choosing a care provider and to seek out professionals who have the necessary qualifications and experience to provide safe and effective care.
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Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster, and it's common for women to experience a wide range of hormonaly-fueled feelings during this time. As a holistic midwife and trained herbalist, I often recommend herbs to support women during this journey. Here is a helpful list of herbs that can be incorporated into your life with teas and tinctures that can support pregnancy's emotional journey.

1. Tulsi (Holy Basil) is a sacred herb in Ayurvedic medicine, and it has been used for centuries to support emotional and mental health. It is considered an adaptogen, which means it can help the body adapt to stress. Tulsi has a calming effect on the nervous system, and it can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve mood.​
2. Motherwort is a traditional herb that has been used for centuries to support women's health. It is a natural nervine, which means it can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. Motherwort can also help regulate the menstrual cycle and promote relaxation.
3. Hawthorn is a heart-healthy herb that can help support emotional health during pregnancy. It can help improve circulation, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. Hawthorn can also help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health.
4. Passionflower is a calming herb that can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. It has a sedative effect on the nervous system, and it can help regulate the menstrual cycle. Passionflower is also useful for reducing muscle tension and promoting overall relaxation.
5. Nettles are a nourishing herb that can help support overall health and well-being during pregnancy. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, which can help reduce fatigue and improve energy levels. Nettles can also help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
6. Oatstraw is a nutritive herb that can help support the nervous system during pregnancy. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve mood. Oatstraw can also help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve overall health and well-being.

By incorporating these herbs into a healing protocol for pregnancy emotional hormone roller coaster, women can support their emotional and mental health during this transformative time. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet or self-care routine.
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Charlotte, NC is home to many innovative and alternative schools that offer earth-based, outdoor play-based education. These schools take a unique approach to learning, focusing on nature and the outdoors as a primary learning environment. Here are some of the alternative earth-based, outdoor play preschools and schools in Charlotte NC that you might be interested in.

1. Montessori Schools: Montessori schools are known for their hands-on, self-directed approach to learning. Many Montessori schools also incorporate outdoor and nature-based activities into their curriculum. Some of the top Montessori schools in Charlotte include Charlotte Montessori School, Park Road Montessori School, and Providence Montessori School.
   
2. Waldorf Schools: Waldorf schools offer a holistic education that focuses on developing the whole child - mind, body, and spirit. Waldorf schools also incorporate nature and outdoor play into their curriculum, often emphasizing the importance of play-based learning. Some of the top Waldorf schools in Charlotte include the Waldorf School of Charlotte and the Sunflower School.
   
3. ALC Mosaic: ALC Mosaic is a progressive, self-directed school that focuses on developing independent learners. The school has an outdoor classroom and playground, and students have the opportunity to engage in outdoor play and nature-based activities as part of their daily routine.
   
4. Piedmont Progressive Preschool: Piedmont Progressive Preschool is a play-based preschool that emphasizes the importance of outdoor play and nature-based learning. The school has a natural playground and a focus on hands-on, experiential learning.
   
5. Woodland Discovery Preschool: Woodland Discovery Preschool is a nature-based preschool that provides a play-based curriculum that encourages children to explore and learn about the natural world around them. The school has a large outdoor classroom and a focus on child-led learning.
   
6. Pioneer Springs Community Charter School: Pioneer Springs Community Charter School is a public charter school that emphasizes outdoor play and nature-based learning. The school has a focus on hands-on, experiential learning and provides opportunities for students to engage in outdoor activities and projects.
   

In conclusion, Charlotte, NC has many alternative earth-based, outdoor play preschools and schools that offer a unique approach to learning. These schools provide opportunities for children to explore and learn in a natural environment, emphasizing the importance of outdoor play and nature-based activities. Whether you're interested in a Montessori, Waldorf, or other progressive school, there are many options available in Charlotte that may be a great fit for your family.
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Charlotte, North Carolina is a vibrant and growing city that is home to many families, and it has plenty of resources and things to do for new parents and their babies. Whether you're a first-time parent or adding to your family, here are some family resources and things to do in Charlotte that you may find helpful.

1. Hospitals and birthing centers: Charlotte has several hospitals and birthing centers that provide excellent care for expecting mothers and their babies. Some of the top hospitals and birthing centers in Charlotte include Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, and Natural Beginnings.
   
2. Pediatricians: Finding a pediatrician who is a good fit for your family is essential. Charlotte has many qualified pediatricians who specialize in caring for infants and children. Some of the top pediatricians in Charlotte include Charlotte Pediatric Clinic, Levine Children's Hospital, and University Pediatrics.
   
3. Mom groups: Joining a mom group is a great way to connect with other moms and share your experiences as a new parent. Charlotte has many mom groups, including Charlotte Moms, Charlotte Mommies, and Moms of Multiples.
   
4. Family-friendly activities: Charlotte has many family-friendly activities that are perfect for parents and babies. Some of the top family-friendly activities in Charlotte include visiting the Discovery Place Science Museum, exploring the Charlotte Nature Museum, and taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
   
5. Childcare: Finding reliable and safe childcare is a top priority for many new parents. Charlotte has many excellent childcare providers, including Bright Horizons, KinderCare, and Goddard School.
   
6. Breastfeeding support: Breastfeeding can be challenging for new moms, but Charlotte has many resources and support groups to help. The Charlotte Breastfeeding Coalition provides support, education, and resources for breastfeeding moms.
   
7. Postpartum support: Postpartum support is important for new moms who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Charlotte has many resources for postpartum support, including the Postpartum Education and Support Group and the Prenatal and Postpartum Support Group.
   
8. Fitness classes: Staying active after having a baby is important for both physical and mental health. Charlotte has many fitness classes that are designed for new moms and their babies, including Mommy and Me Yoga, Stroller Strides, and Fit4Mom.
   

In conclusion, Charlotte, NC is a great place to have a baby, and it offers many resources and things to do for new parents and their babies. Whether you're looking for a pediatrician, mom group, family-friendly activity, childcare provider, breastfeeding support, postpartum support, or fitness class, Charlotte has something for everyone. Take advantage of these resources to help make your transition to parenthood as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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Blessing for a Mother-to-be
John O’Donohue
Nothing could have prepared your heart to open like this.
From beyond the skies and the stars this echo arrived inside you and started to pulse with life, each beat a tiny act of growth, traversing all our ancient shapes on its way home to itself.
Once it began, you were no longer your own. A new, more courageous you, offering itself in a new way to a presence you can sense but you have not seen or known.

It has made you feel alone in a way you never knew before, everyone else sees only from the outside what you feel and feed with every fiber of your being. Never have you traveled farther inward where words and thoughts become half-light unable to reach the fund of brightness strengthening inside the night of your womb. Like some primeval moon, your soul brightens the tides of essence that flow to your child. You know your life has changed forever, for in all the days and years to come, distance will never be able to cut you off from the one you now carry for nine months under your heart.
May you be blessed with quiet confidence that destiny will guide you and mind you. May the emerging spirit of your child imbibe encouragement and joy from the continuous music of your heart, so that it can grow with ease, expectant of wonder and welcome when its form is fully filled.

​WHAT IS SOVEREIGN WOMAN, FERAL MOTHER? a rich, pre-recorded library collection of Matriarchal wisdom, and sovereign skills to support the rise of the wild woman within. In these uncertain times, now more than ever, it is important to deepen our skillset and gather the tools in our medicine bags to support our sovereignty. www.wombandearth.love/sovereign-womanwww.wombandearth.love/sovereign-woman

Chant of the Pregnant Goddess 
by Jana McCarthy I am the mother of the moon 
sister of the stars 
child of the light in your eyes. 
I am powerful. 
  
The geometry of my shape shifts 
from gently curved lines 
to expanding circles: earth, moon, sun. 


I am powerful. 
I am strong. 


The tempo of my vibration quickens, 
increasing from 
butterfly wings, to floundering fish, 
to beating drum, 
erupting volcano, 
the rhythm as old and constant as 
the cycles of the sun 
and the turn of the tides. 
I am powerful. 
I am strong. 
I am beautiful. 
I hold the hope of my ancestors 
the knowledge of my time 
the fate of my future. 
I am powerful. 
I am strong. 
I am beautiful. 
I am mother. 

https://offbeathome.com/singing-through-labor/