Tender Nest is a mindfulness based childbirth education class in Portland, Oregon. The class covers stages of labor, coping techniques, support team connection, the fourth trimester and more. The class is taught in a living room setting with a cap at four families. The class is gender and queer inclusive and supportive of all family configurations.

No matter where you plan to have your baby, Tender Nest offers techniques to reduce stress and anxiety around the childbearing years. The class also creates a necessary space to connect with your support team and learn how to transition into parenthood with tenderness. 

The class will cover:

Pregnancy: Build your nest! In preparing for the arrival of your babe, often you hear about nesting in your home, but what about nesting in your body?

• Lay the groundwork for mindfulness practices

• Increase your ability to cope with discomfort with practical tools that fit into everyday life

• Learn about the anatomy of pregnancy and preparing the pelvis for birth

Early Labor:

• Learn the stages of dilation/effacement and the variations of normal

• Recognize the emotions & physical sensations common in this stage

• Create a birthing environment that’s supportive of your family’s needs

Active Labor & Birth: Find calm and confidence during active labor and the birth of your baby.  The energetic atmosphere of your chosen place of birth can directly impact your birth experience.  How can you implement the tools you’ve practiced to set the tone for a supportive atmosphere?

• Address fears & create individualized pathways for relaxation, comfort and connection

• Learn about the role and importance of hormones in labor

• Learn about transition & the birth of your baby

The 4th Trimester (Postpartum): Nest into the Fourth Trimester! Create support systems within your family and friend circles in order to promote self-care.  Turns out they were right... taking care of baby IS A FULL TIME JOB.  The identity of parenthood does not overshadow who you are as a person in the world.  

• Understanding the fourth trimester

• Postpartum healing

• Recognize your baby’s transitions from womb to world & how to best support them

This class includes a mix of lecture, discussion, media, movement and relaxation techniques. It is ideal for anyone who is either birthing or supporting the labor of a loved one.

upcoming series

April 20th & 21st 10:00AM - 2:00PM | Open for registration

June 8th & 9th 10:00AM - 2:00PM | Open for registration

August 3rd & 4th 10:00AM - 2:00PM | Open for registration