Practical bodywork to hold and support women in birth. Email us for couples and multi-day discounts. [email protected]About this Event
Learn to offer steady, nurturing support during labour through touch, massage and practical bodywork.
PLEASE NOTE THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT DISCOUNT FOR COUPLES (partners and mama) FOR RED TENT DOULAS AND FOR MULTI-DAY PURCHASE - PLEASE EMAIL US TO BOOK DIRECTLY [email protected]
Massage and bodywork were an essential, expected part of the traditional birth attendant’s care throughout the birthing year. This hands-on day explores how we can continue that tradition, helping a labouring woman feel supported, comforted and held.
Guided by Sakli and Matiga, you’ll learn a labour bodywork routine, alongside techniques you can draw on as a woman’s needs and positions change. There will be plenty of time to practise, ask questions and build confidence.
Together, we’ll explore:
• How to approach a labouring woman with sensitivity, ask permission and follow her lead.• Massage, holding and comforting touch during labour.• Practical ways to support her back, hips and pelvis.• How to offer bodywork in different labour positions.• When to offer movement, steady pressure, gentle touch or stillness.• How to adapt your support as labour unfolds.
The emphasis is on responding to the woman in front of you: listening to her words and body, respecting her boundaries and offering a calm, reassuring presence.
Who is this day for?
Doulas, birth partners, couples, antenatal educators, yoga teachers and anyone supporting women during the birthing year.
Absolute beginners are welcome, alongside practitioners wishing to deepen their skills. You can attend this day on its own; you do not need to have attended the pregnancy day.
Your facilitators
Sakli, of Maou Clinique, and Matiga, who also facilitates our End-of-Life Doula training, bring many years of bodywork and caring experience between them.
Both are practitioners Nicola trusts with her own body — and she is very particular about whose hands she places herself in. Their work offers an extraordinarily nurturing and healing experience.
A small, hands-on gathering
Join us on 11 December 2026 in Sakli’s bodywork space in Forest Hill, London.
Places are limited to eight participants, allowing time for individual guidance and practice.
Booking and discounts
This is the labour day in our three-part bodywork series, alongside separate days devoted to pregnancy and postpartum. Each day is listed and booked individually.
Couples and multi-day discounts are available. Please email [email protected] before booking so we can arrange the appropriate rate.
Each person needs their own place; a couple counts as two bookings but there is a considerable discount.
Event venue
SE23, 13 church vale, London, United Kingdom
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