In this episode we get to hear about the beautiful experience of birthing when there is reverence and preparation for gentle empowerment of the The Mother (which is somehow defined by the Newborn). Alison is so experienced as a midwife, yoga teacher and hypnobirthing facilitator that she naturally describes how different it can be in real life to the TV sensationalised version of birth as a stressful (or even distressing) procedure. It can also be very calm, with very little intervention and augmented by a beautiful approach to what the word "midwife" really means. The lovely Alison talks us through the "mandala" of links between Yoga, Midwifery, hypnobirthing and hypnotherapy as the most valuable tools for bringing us into self-awareness - almost "birthing ourselves" into a natural way of being, so that we can manage anxiety and find a quiet, self-respectful centre whenever we need to.  We also touch upon the subject of food addiction in both Alison's professional and personal life; and come beautifully full circle at the end of our conversation, when Alison talks about the death of two family members, and her role - as with birth - in holding space and working gently to support this process of transitioning from one world to another. Welcome to midwifery and the lovely role it can be both literally and symbolically! Alison's Website: https://www.yogapanacea.com/