Flashlight Doula
Do you remember being a kid and discovering a flashlight for the very first time? I sure do! I also remember insisting on having a little flashlight with me in bed as a kid. There was a security that came with having this itty bitty flashlight tucked under my pillow. Whenever I felt anxious or scared I would reach for my little flashlight and switch it on. Once I felt better I’d switch it back off and tuck it back under my pillow.
Sometimes, depending on how anxious or scared I felt, I’d leave my flashlight glowing. Sometimes it was a simple reach for the flashlight under my pillow and once I felt my hand touch it all my fears slipped away.
But I didn’t only use my flashlight for when I was feeling anxious or scared. I also used it for fun things like reading books under my covers past my bedtime or for making funny shadows on my wall. My flashlight was great for many things.
A great Doula knows when and how to shine their light.
Doulas are just like flashlights!
They act as a comfort and security during your birth. They are there when you need them throughout your pregnancy and during the birth of your baby. But a great Doula knows when and how to be a flashlight Doula. When to be still. When to simply be present. When they are needed and not needed.
Being a flashlight Doula doesn’t mean you do nothing. It simply means you know when to be hands on and when to be hands off. You trust in the birth process and believe in the strength of a woman’s body. You know the sounds of birth and understand the different rhythms that flow with it. You are skilled in the art of waiting with patience. But can thrive in the chaos. You are like that flashlight tucked under the pillow. Sometimes you’ll be called upon and need to step into your roll; physically, emotionally, verbally, and informatively. But other times you’ll meet half way with a simple touch, maybe a hand to hold or a gentle touch to remind them you’re near.
You are the flashlight.
As a Doula you reduce anxiety and help eliminate fears. You brighten the room with support and love. You help make a way for the mother being born. You keep the space and keep it with grace. You are the flashlight. You’ll be needed and not needed and called upon here and there. You’ll be present for all who are there. When the time has come to say your goodbye, your light will dim and go off.
A flashlight Doula is always there to love, support and to care.