The Mindful Mama

Having two young children, I have an understanding of the journey to motherhood. During the pregnancy of my second child, I seeked some additional support. Through this support, as well as leaning into nature and paying particular attention to my mindset, I had the most positive birth experience. This has encouraged me to support other women during their matrescence.

Here are a selection of activities to support you on the journey of motherhood from pregnancy and beyond, with a keen focus to the perinatal period (pregnancy to 1 year after birth).

If you would like to read more on how nature can support you during the perinatal period, head over to the Green Health Hub where I wrote an article based on research I undertook for my Forest Bathing certification.

Link to article

Forest Bathing for Pregnancy

Forest bathing or Shinrin-Yoku (in Japanese) is an immersive experience into nature through sensory experiences. It will give you the opportunity to step back from the busy hustle and bustle and become more mindful and present. It is proven to help you feel more relaxed and is beneficial for both mind and body.

This session will help support you by:

- allowing you to relax and unwind

- providing a chance for you to connect with your baby

- exploring how nature can support you during your pregnancy and beyond

Session length: 1.5 - 2 hours

Group size: maximum of 4

Cost: £33

Upcoming session:

Saturday 6th September at 9:30am, Minstead

Forest Bathing for Pregnancy - Sophie

Amy guides you in a beautiful way to fully engage your senses and bring you into the present moment. It was too easy to get wrapped up in preparing for baby, so taking a moment for myself in my third trimester was so important for my mental and emotional state. I loved our session and still think of it fondly nearly a year later.

Forest Bathing for Pregnancy - Jillian

After the forest bathing session I did with Amy, I felt even more refreshed than if I had spent the day lazing at a spa. I really benefitted from the opportunity to switch off and fully immerse yourself in nature. I did not anticipate how powerful something so simple could be. My mind was able to rest and reset from the constant treadmill of all my to do lists and work. I valued the opportunity to improve my wellbeing during pregnancy and still use some of the mindfulness exercises now to ground me during my busy life looking after my baby.

Forest Bathing for Pregnancy - Georgie

I thoroughly enjoyed my forest bathing session with Amy. She was able to guide us in what was a new experience for us all, and also allow us the time and freedom to make the most of the session in a way that felt natural to us. It was a wonderful morning to connect with my senses and also my baby. I was able to focus on the wonders of pregnancy and nature and really appreciate how closely linked they are. I felt very relaxed and at peace after the session. Thank you Amy!

Power up Pregnancy

This workshop gives you the opportunity to think about how you want/hope your birthing experience and future motherhood to be.

A feel good session enabling you to visualise and manifest your ideal birthing experience and motherhood journey.

This workshop will include:

- a meditation

- positive music

- a chance to create and discuss your vision

By the end of this workshop, you'll have a vision board to refer to throughout your pregnancy.

Session length: 2 hours

Suitable from 15 weeks gestation.

Group size: maximum 8

Cost: £22

Upcoming session: May 2025

Wellbeing Walks for Parent & Baby

Having a newborn is an exciting adventure, but it can sometimes feel lonely. Many groups are focused on the baby rather than the caregiver. Our wellbeing walks, however, are designed to support your wellbeing because we know that when we look after ourselves, we can support others better.

Each week we meet up at a location within the Waterside for a short walk. It is a chance to meet other parents with their babies, enabling you to foster new relationships, talk to others who are in a similar life chapter, and to use nature to support your wellbeing.

Please note, no dogs are allowed.

Locations: across the Waterside, New Forest (8 sites on a rota)

When: Every Tuesday at 10:30am

Session length: Approximately 45 minutes

Difficulty: The walk will follow a steady pace and stick to buggy-friendly terrain such as gravel, tarmac, and grass.

Cost: £3

Limited spaces

bOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

Wellbeing Walks for Parent & Baby - Lauren

I was new to the area with a 2 month old baby. Amy's walks got me out in the fresh air, meeting a lovely group of mums. Amy uses the walks to encourage you to take time to think of yourself as well as being able to chat about your little ones. A staple in our weekly plans.

Wellbeing Walks for Parent & Baby - Victoria

Amy's walks are a cornerstone of my week. I always find them really calming and they're so different to other baby groups where there is no pressure and its all about looking after yourself. She chooses walks in places that are really soothing and I always feel so much less frazzled after my time on Tuesday mornings. Definitely recommend to all mums.

Wellbeing Walks for Parent & Baby - Chiara

I've been doing different walks with Amy, and I can very honestly say that I have enjoyed each one of them. As a busy mum of two young kids, I feel it is very important to connect not just with other mums but with nature as well, and that's the main purpose of the walks. I really recommend it to all the mums who feel tired, stressed, and a bit overwhelmed by just being mums! After each walk, I feel calmer and restored and ready to continue with my busy day. A good way to enjoy motherhood.

Wellbeing Walks for Parent & Baby - Katie

My Mindful Self walks are such an enjoyable experience. Walking with the babies and friendly people helps to motivate me, leaving me feeling great and ready for the week ahead.