Coal Coast Baby Interview with Nancy about Pregnancy, Birth and Motherhood
We recently met with Nancy McLean; a Doula, Massage Therapist, Yoga Teacher, Infant Massage Educator and Sleep Consultant based in Wollongong.
Hi Nancy, thanks for the chat. Would you like to tell us how you support women through pregnancy, birth and motherhood?
Sure! I help mums achieve health goals, birth beautifully and parent confidently in their own unique and special ways. I’m also a mum, and I understand a woman’s changing physical, emotional and spiritual needs. As mothers are going through some of the toughest and most rewarding parts of motherhood, I’m there as each new phase brings new challenges.
Can you explain how doulas hold space for a more positive birth?
Evidence shows that doula support helps woman achieve shorter labours, higher birth satisfaction, reduced risk of intervention and more. Imagine if every woman was celebrated for her unique self, encouraged to birth in a way she’d only dreamt possible, whilst supported in her vulnerability. That’s what I do, by providing evidence-based and emotionally supportive care. The best thing I hear from birthing clients is, “Wow! I can't believe I did that!” And that’s so important because when families are supported to take control of their choices and be active in decision-making, they develop an innate confidence to make parenting choices aligned with their values.
Does yoga and massage help?
Massage and yoga have been proven to help physical and emotional wellbeing and comfort before, during and after pregnancy keeping mothers healthy and strong. But it takes work! My clients love that I commit to learning their unique bodies. We look at weaknesses, strengths and how you move in your daily life and design a personal plan combining massage, yoga and functional movement to get you healthy and strong.
Tell us what makes Yoga Playgroup so different?
I founded Yoga Playgroup as a space for yoga-inspired mums to connect through play with their little ones and forge genuine friendships. Mums come for their kids, but they keep coming because they feel nurtured in so many ways too. It's more than yoga. It's communal, interactive and fun. We share a home-cooked meal every week, and we sit in circle reflecting on the sacred path of motherhood that each of us is on.
When is a sleep a ‘problem’ and what can families do?
Struggling with sleep is a normal part of parenting. We often adopt a rhythm or pattern that feels natural and starts off working well but becomes unsustainable over time. Then it’s time to change! I use a respectful and gentle approach to help you understand what’s developmentally appropriate then take a holistic view and Implement changes that resonate with you.
Wow, you must be busy!
For a small group of families I can help in a meaningful way and make a real difference. When I am working with the right client, I can see the world through her eyes and provide care that's meaningful to her. It takes a lot of heart but it’s how the magic happens.
Navigating this journey through pregnancy and motherhood isn’t as hard when you’re supported by experienced, caring and philosophically-aligned experts.
Let Nancy help you find your feet and find your village.