What is a Doula? This would have been my exact reply 6 years ago when I was first pregnant. Now look at me I have become one! What a insight I have gained over the years into my feminie self backed up with some super personal development. So to me Doulas are the real deal in birth and beyond, not one is the same! They can all offer different journeys and experiences to bring you some great possibilities in your pregnancy and birth journey. I was happy to hang out with a few of the Canberra Doulas at a very busy baby expo. So, I thought I would record some snippets of their wisdom for you. Firstly, however you will hear from elder retired Doula Rachel Vines. Rachel has been running Birth Yurt and playing a big part in solidifying the ever most supportive network of Canberra Doulas. This group is working together for the greater good of birth and beyond! Such an inspiring bunch of women! Connect with the Doulas: * First we spoke with the recently retired Doula and current Doula trainer: Rachel Vines: Rachel originally trained in Anthropology with a particular interest in Women’s Spirituality, Deep Ecology and Aboriginal Women’s Business in Australia. Rachel has experience in the Community Development sector and also in the Public Service working with International Cooperation (Pacific Islands) and later in Indigenous Sexual Health.  Rachel now works primarily as a Breathwork Practitioner and Holistic Psychotherapist in private practice. Former President of the Australian Breathwork Association, Rachel now takes her place in the community on the Council (Integrity Committee Member) for the International Breathwork Foundation. Websites: Birth Yurt and Rising Vines Integrative Therapies Kellie Hermes: Belly Painting, henna tattooing and photography. Birth and post partum doula support. My name is Kellie Hermes- I am a doula and mother of 4. Before I started my doula journey in 2012, I spent 16 years in the hospitality industry. Drawing from that experience and passion for being of service, combined with my newfound knowledge in holding space for women and families, I’ve expanded my role as ‘mother’ out into our community. I had water births with all of my children. With lots of support from my own mother, midwives and partner, I found the experiences to be intense and profound yet calm and gentle. Now I bring my innate knowledge of the empowering nature of labour, birth and parenting to other women, partners and families. Website: Adora Birth  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adorabirth Kylie Coad – Bowen Therapy, Reiki, Massage, Homeopathic, Herbal & Mineral Support, Postnatal Mother & Baby Care Services Trust your heart, intuition & primal instinct, find focus & freedom in your birth.. [email protected]       Emma Booth: Student Doula of The Birth Yurt and definitely has the love to share! [email protected]. Kathryn Moss: A Little Doula – Birth and Support Services [email protected]         And stay tuned for Amy Bencke as she will in a upcoming episode share some of her birth and Doula wisdom! BREATHE: BIRTH SUPPORT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMEY