Sarah: Prenatal + Postpartum Yoga
I was 9 weeks pregnant when I first started going to Prenatal Yoga with Sarah in 2017. I was exhausted and suffering from intense morning sickness, but I was so happy to be pregnant. I found that during Sarah's classes I was able to take the time to be fully present with my body and with my pregnancy. I learned how to bring that presence with me outside of class too, and found great comfort by using the skills and comfort techniques Sarah taught. Again, in my third trimester, I would look forward to class every week knowing that I would find comfort and pleasure in the postures and in the final rest, when Sarah would come around and gently massage lavender oil to my forehead.
The community that built up during those classes was so helpful too. I remember watching others give birth ahead of me, and getting to hear their birth stories in class. After my daughter was born, many of us would still get together to share joys, challenges, and baby clothes.
Postpartum yoga was a gift. Sometimes I was able to deeply relax into the postures while my daughter napped or was rocked by Sarah, and sometimes I would nurse her while taking in the peace of the studio and watching the parents around me find relaxation and strength. We still play some of the games and sing some of the songs we learned in class.
Both of my births were empowering, intense, and incredible experiences. When my daughter was born, I listened to the music from prenatal yoga for hours on repeat. It helped me find the relaxation I learned in her class and reminded me that I was supported and cared for by Sarah and my cohort of pregnant and postpartum friends.
I tuned into virtual Prenatal Yoga with Sarah the night before my son's birth. I wasn't in labor but I could tell it was coming soon. I told her at the beginning of class that I was feeling emotional and might cry. Sarah said "you are always welcome to cry in my presence." This is the memory that I think best represents how I feel about Sarah's birthwork. She is there for all of it. Not just the birth, not just the fireworks- she is there for the tears, for the darkness. She knows how to honor it. She made me feel strong by allowing me to share my tears.
Sarah, I can hardly stop!! I have so many of these moments!!
You're so wonderful. Thank you for the gifts you have given me. I am so grateful for your support and for everything you've taught me.
Love,
