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Holistic Beginnings

The Holistic Beginnings Journal

Good questions.
Thoughtful guidance.

Explore birth, feeding, and postpartum resources for families, alongside practical guidance for doulas building their skills.

Written by Laura DePasquale, childbirth educator and birth doula trainer.

Laura leading a hands-on doula training workshop

For expectant and new families

Prepare for birth. Make room for support.

Learn about childbirth classes, feeding preparation, doula support, and life after your baby arrives.

Childbirth Preparation Classes: What to Expect and Why They Help

Explore what childbirth preparation classes cover, from comfort measures and birth preferences to practical ways your partner can support you.

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Lactation Classes During Pregnancy: What You’ll Learn

Learn what a prenatal lactation class covers, how partners can prepare, and when to seek feeding support after your baby arrives.

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What a Birth Doula Can and Cannot Do for Your Birth

Understand the birth doula’s role, how support works alongside your medical team, and why no doula can promise a particular birth outcome.

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An Easy Berry Smoothie for Busy Pregnancy Mornings

Laura shares a simple berry, banana, and avocado smoothie recipe, with practical preparation tips and pregnancy food-safety reminders.

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Postpartum Support: Planning Help for the Fourth Trimester

Plan practical postpartum support for recovery, feeding, household needs, and emotional wellbeing during the transition to life with a new baby.

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5 Things I Won’t Do as Your Doula: Support and Boundaries

Learn five professional boundaries in Laura’s doula support, including honesty, respect for your decisions, and staying within a non-clinical role.

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Bonding With Your Newborn: When Love Is Not Instant

Not every parent feels an instant connection after birth. Learn why bonding can take time, how support helps, and when to talk with your care team.

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Supporting Someone Planning an Unmedicated Birth

Offer encouragement without pressure when someone hopes for an unmedicated birth, while respecting their choices and changing needs during labor.

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For new and practicing doulas

Build your skills. Find your next step.

Explore hands-on training, preparing for your first birth, and continuing your professional education.

How New Doulas Can Build Confidence Before Their First Birth

Prepare for your first birth as a doula with mentorship, hands-on practice, clear professional boundaries, and a plan for continued learning.

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Hands-On Doula Training: Building Skills for Real Birth Support

Learn how hands-on doula training helps you practice comfort measures, communication, consent, and adaptable support before attending births.

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