Today we are joined by Jacqueline Diaz, a mother, birth worker, and advocate. Jacqueline believes parenting is the longest ceremony anyone will ever embark on. She has been supporting parents and families, particularly in the postpartum phase, for over 17 years.
In this episode, we dive into the following:
The parenting continuum is a process filled with interconnectedness, promoting self-discovery and harmony within ourselves and our future generations.
How we can connect to ancestral knowledge.
Nuances between home birth and hospital birth support.
How to give ourselves grace as we learn and grow during parenthood.
Listen to the podcast now:
Welcome back to another episode of The Mindful Womb Podcast. Today we will be joining by Jacqueline Diaz, a passionate advocate for ancestral wisdom, holistic childbirth, and mindful parenting. In today's fast-paced world, the ancient wisdom passed down through generations can often be overlooked. In our quest for modernity, we sometimes forget to embrace the knowledge that has been cultivated over centuries. Jacqueline will gonna take us on a journey of rediscovering these invaluable insights.
The Value of Ancestral Wisdom
The importance of acknowledging and embracing our ancestral wisdom. Jacqueline reminds us that within each of us lies a deep reservoir of ancestral knowledge that can guide us through life's most transformative experiences. This wisdom is particularly relevant during the process of childbirth and parenting.
She stresses the interconnectedness of our experiences, from the profound act of giving birth to the many years of parenting that follow. These interconnected experiences make it essential to link the wisdom of the past with the decisions we make today.
Jacqueline encourages individuals to think deeply about their choices and to connect with their inner instincts. She reminds us that our decisions during pregnancy, birth, and parenting are not only influenced by biology but are also shaped by societal constructs, capitalism, colonialism, and past traumas. As a result, she encourages people to reflect on their choices and work towards a sense of empowerment and alignment with their instincts.
Mindful Parenting and the Power of Connection
Mindfulness plays a crucial role in Jacqueline's approach to childbirth and parenting. She encourages introspection and thoughtful consideration, offering a set of questions to prompt self-reflection. Jacqueline emphasizes the value of setting intentions and the power of writing them down. Writing intentions solidifies our commitments and allows us to hold ourselves accountable.
She discusses the importance of prayer and contemplation as ways to connect with one's inner wisdom. Jacqueline believes that these practices can be adapted to suit an individual's beliefs and preferences. Ultimately, they serve as tools to foster self-awareness and introspection.
Additionally, she reminds us of the significance of grace and self-compassion. Parenting is a continuous learning process, and mistakes are part of the journey. Rather than being harsh on ourselves for past errors, Jacqueline advises that we allow ourselves space for growth and development.
Advocacy and the Value of Evidence-Based Information
Jacqueline Diaz is not only a champion of ancestral wisdom but also a dedicated advocate for improving the childbirth experience, particularly for Indigenous communities. She underscores the importance of being informed and equipped to advocate for improved care. While recognizing the significance of evidence-based information in medical settings, she emphasizes the need to respect and honor the wisdom that has been passed down through generations.
One of the critical issues she raises is the overreliance on technology and a lack of emphasis on tactile, hands-on skills. The medicalization of childbirth has sometimes led to the neglect of crucial practices like palpation and belly mapping. Jacqueline believes that these skills should not be relegated to a lower class but rather should be valued and integrated into modern childbirth practices.
Jacqueline Diaz's passion for ancestral wisdom, holistic childbirth, and mindful parenting is not only inspiring but also a critical reminder that we should not forsake the wisdom of our ancestors. She encourages individuals to reflect, set intentions, practice mindfulness, and be patient with themselves. Her advocacy for informed and respectful childbirth experiences serves as a beacon of hope for all those working toward improving the future of birthing and parenting.
In a world that often values technological advances over the wisdom of the past, Jacqueline Diaz encourages us to integrate both perspectives, creating a holistic approach that honors the interconnectedness of life's most profound moments.
Her work is a testament to the enduring power of ancestral wisdom and the value of mindfulness and introspection in the journey of parenting.
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