In today’s episode I am kicking off the series about childbirth preparation classes. I am featuring a different type of birth education program each week in the month of May. 

I had the privilege of interviewing Nikki Shaheed and she is a certified Trainer, Mentor, and Doula for Birthing from Within, as well as the author of Heart Centered Pregnancy Journal. Nikki is passionate about bringing balance and self-compassion to the childbearing year. She lives in San Antonio, TX with her husband and three amazing children. 

In this episode we discuss: 

Background of Birthing From Within

• Created by Pam England, who is the author of Birthing From Within
• Her birth experience led her to ask herself: what did I need to know as a mother that I didn’t know as a midwife? 
• That question inspired her quest to find self compassion and a way to help people to have more realistic and holistic expectations before they give birth

What is the BFW "unmethod"? 

• There is no way to get it wrong with Birthing From Within, it is not outcome based
• It is all about developing self love, self acceptance and doing what the moment calls for without being held back by conditioning or judgment

Words we use in birth

• The words we use are powerful and create imagery
• The term “natural childbirth” makes Cesarean or medicated birth seem “unnatural”

You cannot plan out your birth

• You can prepare for birth, but you cannot control birth outcomes
• Center preparation around the foundational concept that you are stepping into the unknown
• Nikki likes to call Birthing From Within the “self compassion buffet” 
• Self compassion is the most important thing to pack in your birth bag

What will parents learn about childbirth, as well as themselves? 

• Parents will learn the “nuts and bolts” of birth
• Stages of labor
• Common procedures that can occur during birth
• How to prepare the for the unknown

Birth Art

• Embodied experience that allows parents to practice figuring out what to do when they don’t know what to do
• Wise and compassionate mentor is there to encourage them to keep going

Emphasis on the postpartum journey is a big differentiator between Birthing From Within and other birth preparation programs

Find a Birthing From Within Birth Education Mentor


How to get in touch with/follow Nikki

• Heart Centered Pregnancy Journal
• Follow on Instagram
• Website

How to get in touch with me: 

• Follow me on Instagram
• Find other episodes at: www.findingyourvillagepod.com
• Email me at [email protected] 
• Monthly Newsletter 

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