The Slow Postpartum Podcast

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Christine Eck, founder and director of the Center for Sacred Window Studies, to explore the Ayurvedic understanding of the postpartum period — known as 'the sacred window'.Christine shares how she came to this work through her own experiences of motherhood and study, and how the teachings of her mentor Ysha Oakes inspired her to carry forward this lineage. Together, we talk about what it means to honour the first weeks after birth as a powerful time for healing, renewal, and connection.We also talk about:Why the postpartum window is considered one of the most potent healing periods of a woman’s lifeHow Ayurveda helps balance the body and mind after birth through warmth, nourishment, and routineHow simple practices such as warm oil massage, easy-to-digest meals, and gentle breathwork can be transformational in this timeThe importance of community and why no one was ever meant to do postpartum aloneThe wisdom behind the saying “40 days for 40 years”It’s a deeply grounding and practical conversation for anyone supporting new families or preparing for their own postpartum season.You can learn more about Christine’s work and her Conscious Postpartum Caregiver Training at sacredwindowstudies.com.If you’re a doula or perinatal professional wanting to bring more nourishment and calm into your work, start with my free guide — “Five Ways to Holistically Support Postpartum Families.”Download it hereFor those who’d like more personal guidance, I also offer one-on-one mentoring and coaching to help you grow your business in a soulful, sustainable way — while staying true to the heart of your care. You can find out more hereIf you enjoyed this episode, I'd be so grateful if you might subscribe, share it with a friend or fellow birthworker, and leave a review — it really helps more people find the podcast and join the Slow Postpartum movement.

In this seasonal episode of the Slow Postpartum Podcast, I’m guiding you through a short meditation to honour the equinox.The equinox is the moment in the year when day and night are equal, inviting us to pause, notice the balance between light and dark, and gently transition into the next season.In this meditation, you’ll be guided through:✨ A full-body relaxation to help you soften and release tension✨ Gentle breathwork to slow the nervous system and bring calm✨ A seasonal reflection—whether you’re moving into autumn in the northern hemisphere or spring in the southern hemisphere✨ Grounding practices to help you feel steady and connected to the earthThis practice helps you slow down, reconnect with your natural rhythms, and honour the seasonal shift in a nourishing way.🌿 Free resources mentioned in this episode:For doulas & birth workers: How to Support New Families to Plan a Peaceful & Positive Postpartum For mothers & parents-to-be: Six Secrets to a Slow Postpartum Take this time for yourself—you deserve it. 💛

In this episode of the Slow Postpartum Podcast, I’m joined by Jaimie Zaki, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), mother of five, and host of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast. Jaimie has been supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum since 2016, and her holistic approach helps mothers not only with practical breastfeeding challenges like latching and milk supply but also with the confidence to trust both information and intuition.Together, we talk about:Why preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives is so importantHow birth interventions (like C-sections and IV fluids) can impact feeding in the early daysThe “golden hours” after birth and why protecting undisturbed skin-to-skin time mattersThe essential role of community and support in breastfeeding successWhy nervous system regulation, sleep, and nourishment are the foundation for both mother and baby’s well-beingJaimie also shares her top three tips for expectant parents to create a positive and successful breastfeeding journey—whether it’s your first baby or your fifth.If you’ve ever thought, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?”, this episode will leave you with the tools, wisdom, and encouragement you need to approach breastfeeding with confidence.👉 Find Jaimie’s resources at littlebearlactation.com/library and listen to her podcast Breastfeeding With Confidence.

In this solo episode, I’m giving you a peek behind the curtain at what I actually do as a postpartum doula. It's one of the most common questions I’m asked — and not always easy to answer, because this work is so much more than baby cuddles and casseroles (though there’s plenty of both).Come with me through a typical (but never quite the same) day in my life as a postpartum doula here in the Devon countryside, where I live with my dog Tui. From my slow morning cup of coffee in the garden to holding space for new mothers to rest, cry, share their birth stories, and feel nourished — emotionally, physically, and spiritually — this episode offers a genuine window into the beauty and depth of postpartum care.I also share the magic that makes my support truly effective: the detailed postpartum plan I create before baby arrives. It's a complete game-changer for both the families I support and my ability to offer truly aligned care — and I’d love to share that with you too.Why this work is so varied — and so satisfyingHow I start my day slowly with my dog Tui in the Devon countrysideWhy I always check in with my client before I visitWhat I prioritise as soon as I arrive (hint: it involves hot tea and second breakfasts)The power of holding space for a mother to tell her birth storyWhy postpartum care is about listening, resting, food, massage, and tiny rituals of beautyHow creating a personalised postpartum plan before birth changes everythingWhy this kind of slow, responsive care is at the heart of what I do — and why I want to share it with youFreebie for Birth ProfessionalsDownload my Postpartum Planning Template — the exact one I use with my clients:Get the free template (insert link)Free Guide for New and Expectant ParentsPlanning your own peaceful postpartum? I’ve created a gentle guide to help you get started:Download the guide (insert link)Train or Mentor with MeWhether you're a doula, birth worker, or someone who feels called to this sacred work, I’d love to walk alongside you.Explore my trainings and mentorship (insert link)A gentle request:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with someone who might benefit or leaving a short review. It helps others discover the podcast and supports the Slow Postpartum movement.Until next time, I hope your day unfolds with calm, care, and connection.

In this episode of The Slow Postpartum Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant duo behind 360 Mama, Hannah and Emma—two postpartum experts who are transforming the way we support C-section recovery.We dive deep into what every mother deserves to know about healing after a surgical birth. From rest and scar massage to pelvic floor recovery and emotional wellbeing, this episode is full of essential, practical guidance—whether you’re preparing for a planned C-section or recovering from an unexpected one.💛 We talk about:Why rest really matters after a caesarean (even if you feel “fine”)How to create a nourishing postpartum sanctuaryWhy C-section recovery should be included in every birth planGentle movement and diaphragmatic breathing in early recoveryScar massage: when to start, how to do it, and why it’s so healingThe surprising connection between C-sections, pelvic floor health, and emotional traumaRecommended products to support healing (scar oils, compression wear, silicone strips, and more)Their new book: C-Section Recovery: Everything You Need to Know—a resource every new mother deserves✨ Hannah & Emma write:“The 360 Mama are a team of postpartum experts who are passionate about improving the lives of mothers after pregnancy and birth… We so frequently heard the phrase ‘I wish somebody had told me this before’ about how to heal properly from pregnancy and birth.”Their book is like having a postpartum support team in your hands—with clear answers to every question, comforting encouragement, and practical tips that make recovery truly achievable. This is a must-read for new parents, doulas, and birth professionals alike.I offer in-person and virtual postpartum support packages specifically tailored for C-section mothers. Whether you need scar massage, emotional care, gentle movement, nourishing meals, or simply someone to hold space for your healing—I’m here to support you every step of the way.Are you a doula or birth professional looking to deepen your skills in Slow Postpartum care? I also offer 1:1 mentoring and coaching to help you bring more rest, nourishment, and sacred support into your client work.📩 Reach out via slowpostpartum.com or DM me @slowpostpartum on instagram.C-Section Recovery: Everything You Need to KnowBy Hannah Poulton & Emma Brockwell➡️ Available now on Amazon360 Mama WebsiteFollow @360mama.uk on InstagramPostpartum Products & DiscountsJojo’s Support Packages & CoursesIf this episode speaks to you, I’d love it if you shared it with a friend or left a review. Your body is amazing. Your healing matters. You deserve rest, care, and support.

In this beautiful and honest episode, I’m joined by my friend and postpartum physiotherapist, Victoria Caulfield, to talk about her second postpartum journey—this time, the slow way.Victoria shares how her experience recovering from a difficult first birth shaped her decision to do things differently with baby number two. From resting more intentionally to embracing traditional postpartum nourishment, Victoria offers a deeply personal account of what it meant to honour her body, her baby, and her healing.“The work was in the rest. I’m not naturally restful—but this time I really gave myself permission to slow down, nourish myself properly, and plan ahead. The difference in my recovery was incredible.” – Victoria CaulfieldWe chat about:✨ Why rest was the “work” Victoria needed most✨ How warming foods and Traditional Chinese Medicine principles supported her recovery✨ What she learned from her first postpartum and why she planned her second so carefully✨ How it felt to say no to visitors and yes to stillness✨ Her three top tips for anyone preparing for postpartum—especially second-time mumsVictoria also shares some of her favourite resources, including The First Forty Days, The Golden Month, and the joys of working with a postpartum food doula (yes, it was that good!).Whether you're preparing for your own postpartum or supporting someone else through theirs, this conversation is full of practical wisdom, gentle encouragement, and real-life insight.🧡 Mentioned in the episode:Victoria’s blogBooks: The First Forty Days, Golden Month, Nine Golden MonthsFood doula recommendation.🌿 Looking for postpartum support of your own?If you’re inspired by Victoria’s story and want to create your own version of a restful, nourishing postpartum—no matter where you live—I’d love to support you.My Virtual Slow Postpartum Support Package is now available, and includes a prenatal planning session, a full online course, healing recipes, meditations, and personal coaching after baby arrives.✨ Click here to learn more about the Virtual Support PackageBecause you deserve to feel held, nourished, and supported during this sacred season.🔗 Subscribe & ShareIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend or fellow birthworker. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes of The Slow Postpartum Podcast.

Journaling can be a powerful tool for emotional well-being in the postpartum period, helping new mothers and parents process emotions, reflect on their experiences, and find peace amidst the transition to motherhood. In this episode, I explore how journaling can support postpartum healing and provide a list of thoughtful prompts to guide your writing practice.Journaling Prompts for Postpartum Reflection:What has surprised me most about this season of my life?What is one small moment today that brought me joy?What was the most challenging thing that happened? How did it make me feel?How does my body feel today, and what does it need from me?What do I wish I could say out loud but haven’t?Who or what is making me feel supported right now?What support do I truly need, and how can I find it?If I could write a letter to my future self, what would I want her to remember about this time?If you’ve been journaling or decide to start after this episode, I’d love to hear about your experience! Reach out to me on Instagram or visit my website.If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from these reflections. And as always, take it slow and gently, and give yourself grace to ease into your slow postpartum. With loveJojo PS: If you'd love my help to plan a slow, supported, soulful postpartum with your new baby, check out my online training - The Art of Slow Postpartum here.

Welcome to Season 2 of theSlow Postpartum Podcast! In this episode, I reflect on the beauty of seasonal living and how slowing down postpartum mirrors nature’s rhythms. I also preview the exciting topics and conversations coming up this season.In this episode:The connection between postpartum recovery and seasonal cyclesThe importance of rest and renewal in winter for greater vitality in springA preview of topics like postpartum nutrition, slow living, and expert interviewsShare your thoughts, topics, or guest ideas with me, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, or review the podcast to support this growing community!Follow Us:For more expert insights on slow postpartum care, nervous system regulation, and maternal wellness, follow me on Instagram @slowpostpartum andvisit my websitefor free resources, training programs, and more Download my free e-book for Doulas & Birth Professionals ‘Five Ways to Holistically Support Postpartum Families.’

How can thoughtful preparation transform the postpartum period from a time of survival to one of joy, healing, and connection for new families? In today’s episode, I delve into the power of creating a slow postpartum plan. This isn’t just about avoiding chaos—it’s about laying the foundation for a peaceful and restorative postpartum experience. Perfect for doulas, birth professionals, and anyone supporting new families, this episode is packed with practical tips and real-life insights to ensure the postpartum journey is one of healing and connection. What we’ll cover: Why preparing for postpartum during pregnancy is a must. Real-life stories of families thriving with a postpartum plan. How modern culture’s focus on the baby can leave new parents unsupported. The five essential elements of a slow postpartum plan: Creating a postpartum sanctuary. Building a circle of support. Prioritizing optimal nutrition for healing and energy. Fostering emotional and physical rest. Strengthening the parent-baby bond through slow living. The ripple effect: How supported parents create healthier families and communities. Free ResourceJoin me for my upcoming free webinar:“How to Support New Families to Plan a Peaceful and Positive Postpartum”Date: Monday, November 25thTime: 8:00 PM GMTRegister here This webinar will provide step-by-step guidance to help you support families in creating their own slow postpartum plan. Whether you’re a doula, birth professional, or passionate about supporting new parents, this is for you.

In this episode of The Slow Postpartum Podcast, I’m joined by Rocio Zunini, a neuroscientist and expert in early childhood development and parenting, to explore the incredible transformations that take place in the brain when we become parents. We dive deep into the neuroscience of parenting, discussing how pregnancy, birth and postpartum rewire our minds, fostering deeper empathy and connection, and enhancing our ability to nurture and respond to our children. Rocio shares her own personal experience growing up in an alloparenting environment in South America, comparing it to her time as a mother in the Western world. We explore how our cultural approaches to parenting shape the way we bond with our babies and regulate our nervous systems. Together, we uncover the importance of building a support village to help parents not just survive, but thrive during the postpartum period. You’ll also learn about alloparenting, how attachment theory has evolved, and the importance of having multiple caregivers for both parents and babies to create a calm, connected postpartum experience. Key Topics Discussed: Parenting and Brain Changes: The neuroscience behind how parenting rewires the brain and strengthens emotional bonds. Alloparenting: What it is and how it benefits both parents and babies by reducing the burden of caregiving. Attachment Theory: How early attachment relationships influence infant development and why multiple caregivers can be beneficial. Postpartum Support: Practical tips on how to build a postpartum village and outsource help during the early weeks with a newborn. Cultural Differences in Parenting: Rocio’s insights from growing up in South America and the value of community caregiving. Resources Mentioned: Rocio Zunini on Instagram Rocio Zunini’s upcoming course: The Parental Brain Program for Professionals starting on October 31st Nurture Revolution Certification Waitlist (April 2025) by Rocio Zunini & Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum Follow Us: For more expert insights on slow postpartum care, nervous system regulation, and maternal wellness, follow me on Instagram @slowpostpartum and visit my website for free resources, training programs, and more Download my free e-book for Doulas & Birth Professionals ‘Five Ways to Holistically Support Postpartum Families.’

Have you ever heard of the acronym W.E.I.R.D.? It stands for Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, and Democratic—terms that describe much of the society we live in today. But could this culture, with its emphasis on productivity and individualism, be harming the wellbeing of new mothers, parents, and babies? In this episode of the Slow Postpartum Podcast, I explore the historical and cultural shifts that have transformed postpartum care. From the communal caregiving of early human societies, known as alloparenting, to the isolating effects of our modern "W.E.I.R.D." culture, we look at how the transition from shared responsibilities to nuclear families—particularly since the Industrial Revolution—has left many mothers and families overwhelmed and unsupported. I also discuss why the philosophy of a slow postpartum, which encourages new mothers to rest, heal, and bond with their babies at a natural pace, free from societal pressures, is something we need to reclaim and practice today. In this episode, we explore: The concept of "W.E.I.R.D" culture (Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, Democratic) and its impact on postpartum care. Historical and indigenous practices of alloparenting and communal infant care. How the Industrial Revolution shifted postpartum care to isolated nuclear families. The harmful myths surrounding motherhood and the pressure to "bounce back" after birth. The physiological and emotional benefits of embracing a slow postpartum for stress reduction and nervous system regulation. How a calm and supported postpartum can positively impact newborns through co-regulation. Practical tips for creating a restorative postpartum experience. Key takeaways: Rest is essential after giving birth. Create a rest-centered postpartum plan that prioritizes recovery. Ask for help and build a support network during pregnancy to ensure you have the assistance you need postpartum. Nourish your body and soul with warming, nutritious meals and mindfulness practices to support physical healing and emotional well-being. I also discuss how birth professionals, such as doulas, can foster a slow postpartum for their clients and contribute to this much-needed cultural shift. Resources mentioned in this episode: [Slow Postpartum Kitchen Cookbook] – Grab a copy of Jojo's nourishing recipes for postpartum healing. Free eBooks: One for expectant/new parents and one for doulas/birth professionals.

What if the secret to thriving in the postpartum period isn't just about rest and care, but also how we are nourished? Could our postpartum diet be the key to a smoother, healthier transition into motherhood? In this episode of the Slow Postpartum Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maranda Bower, a leading expert in postpartum health and nutrition. Maranda, the CEO and founder of Postpartum University, brings her extensive knowledge in biology, nutrition, and perinatal mental health to our discussion. We dive deep into the often overlooked but critical role of nutrition during the postpartum period and explore why what you eat after birth can significantly impact your recovery, well-being, and long-term health. Maranda shares fascinating insights into traditional postpartum practices around the world, explaining how cultures have long recognized the importance of specific foods in aiding recovery. We discuss the physiological changes that occur in a woman's body after birth, the common nutritional deficiencies that many new mothers face, and the vital need for a postpartum diet that is rich in nutrients, easy to digest, and supportive of overall healing. Maranda also highlights the importance of community support in postpartum care, noting that traditional societies understood the value of nourishing new mothers not just with food, but with love and care from those around them. This episode is packed with practical advice and profound wisdom for anyone supporting a new mother, or for mothers themselves who want to optimize their postpartum recovery. In this episode: The critical role of nutrition in postpartum healing How traditional cultures use specific foods to aid postpartum recovery The physiological changes that impact digestion and nutrient absorption after birth Common nutritional deficiencies in postpartum women and their effects The importance of community support in nourishing new mothers Practical advice on optimizing postpartum nutrition Join us as we explore how reclaiming postpartum wellness through proper nutrition can transform the postpartum experience for mothers and their families. You can also ... Grab your copy of Maranda's wonderful 'Mineral Repletion Guide' Join the list for Maranda’s upcoming FREE Masterclass Join the waitlist for Maranda's upcoming Postpartum Nutrition Certification