In a complication-free pregnancy, we may have up to fifteen doctor appointments. Postnatal, there are two. One two to three weeks after birth and another six to eight weeks after birth. How can this be when our physical world and emotional worlds are shifted in such massive ways? Does this not pay respect to the monumental transformation you go through when becoming a mother? Does it feel invalidating and isolating to, in essence, be abandoned after birth? The mother-baby dyad is foundational to human health and wellbeing. As Donald Winnicott famously said "there is no such thing as an infant..." a baby cannot meaningfully exist outside of the relationship in which they depend — meaning, you, the mother. Our babies survival, depends on our own survival. For our babies to thrive, we need to thrive. Physically, emotionally, mentally. You matter in all of this. Think of this circle as your postpartum recovery and survival plan. The trickledown effect being your baby thriving alongside with you.

“Because we are a culture focused on the singular act of birthing, no one tells you what comes before or after birth. Not really. How can they? It’s different for every woman. There may not be one narrative. However, there is one truth. Before and after are not times where all you do is glow. These are passages full of rocks and caverns and shards of light. Maybe we protect the uninitiated women (and men). Maybe we hope they won’t lose themselves like we did. Maybe time passes and we forget what we wanted to tell them in the first place. Maybe we are scared to put the words baby and hardship in the same sentence.”

— Molly Caro May, Body Full of Stars

 
 

Joining our poetry and writing circles offers profound benefits that extend well-beyond the sessions themselves. Engaging in these creative practices allows you to explore and express your emotions in a safe and supportive environment. Emotions that are often complicated, nuanced and can be brushed aside out of fear of being shamed or judged. Writing can also act as a key to the doorway of your inner world — giving you access to previously unexplored or uncovered feelings. Mothers sharing their experiences and perspectives through creative mediums can foster a sense of connection, empathy and validation. This process can reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging and community. Ultimately, social emotional arts empower individuals to better understand and navigate their inner worlds, leading to improved mental health, overall well-being and feeling more supported and more confident in asking for support. And what’s good for mom, is good for baby. Joining these circles is an investment in oneself, leading to a happier, healthier and more fulfilled family dynamic.

 
 

The next drop-in circle for new mothers (prenatal through first year postpartum) will take place late in 2024. No more than fifteen of us will come together for a full two hours. There will be a curated poetry reading followed by discussion. We are examining what the poem means in relation to our own experience in early motherhood. Then a prompt will be given and we move into writing. There is an option to then share your writing and unpack your own feelings and insights. Think of it as your well-mama checkup!

The process.

"This group exceeded all of my expectations! As a first-time mom struggling with anxiety and self-doubt, I was hesitant to seek help. But from the moment I joined, I felt welcomed and supported. The blend of poetry, writing and emotional discussions provided me with invaluable tools for navigating the highs and lows of motherhood."

— Eleanor, mother of one under one

“I can't recommend the postpartum support group enough! Being a mom for the first time was tougher than I imagined. But thanks to this group, I didn’t feel so alone. This group helped me to process my feelings and connect with other moms facing similar challenges. It's not just about surviving; it's about thriving together. I'm grateful for the support and newfound friendships I've found here.”

— Andrea, mother of one under one

Questions?

  • The next circle will be in late 2024. Make sure you are on the interest list above!

  • Each circle will last for 120-minutes. While a writing packet will be provided with additional readings and writing prompts, those are always optional.

  • There will be no more than 15 individuals in the circle. Keeping these circles small and intimate allows safety and comfortability in sharing. It also allows space for those that wish to share to do so.

  • This circle will cost $95. There will also be a sliding scale option.

  • Absolutely. I've had a number of people buy these for baby showers and as a 'new mother gift.' Email hello@joinspool.com and I'll get that all squared away for you.

  • Please join the interest list above. That list will be the first to have a chance to grab one of the limited spots.

  • Absolutely not. Experienced and unexperienced are all welcome. This isn’t a writing class — poetry and writing are merely the tools to access our inner world and give voice to feelings.

  • This support circle is for those who are expecting through their first year postpartum.

  • Yes! Absolutely. This circle is for anyone who identifies as a mother and has taken on that social role. Whether you birthed your child, adopted or otherwise.

  • I’m happy to answer any questions that you may have. Feel free to email hello@joinspool.com or visit the contact page.

"I had so much resistance in joining this circle at first. But I’m glad I did! Because by the end I understood how important it was that I also look after me, without guilt or apology. Looking after me is looking after my little girls."

— Nina, mother of two under three

“This circle was gifted to me at my baby shower. And it turned out to be the greatest gift! I read every pregnancy book and motherhood book I could. But being in a circle with other new moms prepared me more than those books ever could. Can’t recommend this enough to other soon-to-be and new moms!”

— Rose, mother of one under one