fertility, prenatal, labor & delivery, and Postpartum
“Women's perceptions about their bodies and their babies' capabilities will be deeply influenced by the care they receive around the time of birth.”
—ina may gaskin
Labor and delivery
The presence of a calm, attentive, and supportive person during labor can be profoundly grounding. Gentle touch and hands-on guidance help regulate the nervous system, creating a sense of safety and ease that allows your body to progress through labor more efficiently. Hands-on techniques, such as myofascial release, provide profound pain relief for the laboring mother while also easing tension in the hips, back, and pelvis to create space for the baby and encourage optimal positioning. Releasing tight muscles and fascia allows contractions to work more efficiently, while gentle touch and movement stimulate the body’s natural release of oxytocin and endorphins, promoting comfort, relaxation, and a smoother, more empowered birthing experience
PRE-CONCEPTION AND prenatal
Preconception and prenatal myofascial release and bodywork are very different from spa-style “relaxation” massages. This work focuses on the fascia—the connective tissue that supports the entire structure of the body. Preconception work addresses emotional and postural challenges and patterns in the body while bringing both physical and emotional support to women on their fertility journeys. Prenatal work addresses the specific challenges of pregnancy, such as postural changes, increased strain on the hips and back, and the rapid expansion of the abdomen.
The techniques I use are deep, gentle, and always safe. MFR releases long-held restrictions, eases discomfort, and restores balance to the changing body. Many clients find that regular sessions not only relieve physical strain but also promote deeper, more restorative sleep, even in the later stages of pregnancy.
Another important benefit is the development of greater body awareness. As clients receive the hands-on work alongside guided Somatic Experiencing exercises, they become more attuned to the nuanced sensations and rhythms of their own bodies. This awareness can be a powerful resource during labor and delivery, supporting smoother progress and a greater sense of confidence and empowerment.
Postpartum
Postpartum therapy—often called “mothering the mother”—may be the most important chapter of bodywork on the perinatal journey. It blends myofascial release with pelvic floor and core work, Somatic Experiencing, and gentle movement guidance to help the body rebuild strength, restore pelvic floor and core function, and gradually return to its pre-pregnancy state. Regular sessions can improve comfort and support better sleep for both mother and baby during the demanding early months. Attentive, compassionate, and individualized care fosters a smoother, more empowered recovery, helping mothers reclaim their bodies and sense of self amidst this extraordinary physical and emotional metamorphosis.
Newborns and Infants
Myofascial Release treatments for infants can begin as early as the moment of birth. Research shows that touch therapy helps babies sleep better and longer, prevents and alleviates gas, bloating, digestive distress, and colic, while also supporting overall growth and development. MFR can help babies and moms overcome breastfeeding difficulties, and it calms fussy, sensory-sensitive, and high-need babies.
Robin also teaches massage and touch techniques to parents, empowering them to connect with and support their children of all ages. It is easy to learn and easy to use on an everyday basis. When parents touch children in a nurturing and therapeutic way, bonding is enhanced and communication channels are opened.
“Robin is incredibly talented at both holding space and bearing witness while also generously giving and supporting.”
I have known Robin for many years and to this day consider her one of the best bodywork practitioners I have ever experienced. Being a bodyworker myself, I am quite picky when it comes to receiving care. Her sessions are truly transformative and the benefits stay with you well beyond the actual session time. An extra “bonus “ to her excellent care, is the wealth and depth of knowledge and information she has in her field of work- which she readily shares with much generosity.