Birth and Beyond

How far have you come?

The summer solstice is a time to pause, to reflect. To see how much you have managed already and how far you have come.

We can often be impatient with ourselves - disappointed that we’re not where we think we ‘should’ be, where we want to be. And can miss how much we have already achieved. The steps already taken. We can forget to be amazed at ourselves, and what we have done.

So if this resonates for you, I invite you to take a moment to just appreciate how far you have come, what you have already managed. It’s maybe more than you think.

I seem to have been working with a lot of dread this week - mostly dread around future scenarios.

There’s lots of ways I might approach this with someone, but here’s a wee technique that can sometimes be very helpful. I’ve put the link to the full article in the bio, as it’s a bit of a long one!

Back in the saddle after a break.

I often wonder what the people I work with think of me, whether they think I’ve got my 💩 together.

So this is just to disabuse that idea!

I go to therapy. I have loads of training. I have as much supervision as I can. I have loads of great peer support. I am constantly reflecting on my practice. And I look after myself - the maintenance bit.

I am very much a work in progress, and will always be. And I believe that helps me to help you. Because I’m not in any place to judge or tell you what to do.

I know what it’s like to feel stuck, alone and terrified. To feel overwhelmed and like I’m not good enough. And I also know that self awareness alone isn’t always a way through those feelings. I need other people to help me work through that stuff.

So if you want a perfect expert, I’m probably not who you want to work with. But if a part of you longs to feel understood and accepted, I can maybe offer you that.

The connection between a parent and child can be thought of as bit like a dance - you’re both playing your part. To and fro. Attuned to each other.

So what happens if you’re struggling to find your groove? If it feels awkward, or - even worse - that you just can’t find your footing with your baby? It can be really upsetting, for everyone.

I was so chuffed to meet the other week and hear more about her work supporting part-infant communication. She’s doing great things.

If you’re not sure what on earth I’m talking about, or if this kind of work might help you - check out my latest newsletter. Link in bio.