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There's a life-changing moment when a woman transforms into a mother – regardless of whether she always knew motherhood was her path. This raw, honest conversation with art therapist Ainsley Winter reveals her journey from uncertainty about motherhood to an empowered hospital birth experience.

Ainsley's story dismantles the false dichotomy between medicated and unmedicated births. Using the powerful "mountain versus gondola" analogy, she explains how she navigated her options and ultimately chose what felt right for her body – a hospital birth with epidural support. Yet her preparation was anything but passive. From childbirth education classes to doula support, breastfeeding preparation with her partner, and deep connection to the book "Birthing From Within," Ainsley created a foundation of knowledge that allowed her to maintain autonomy throughout her hospital experience.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is Ainsley's candid discussion of both the physical and mental aspects of birth. She describes the moment when her epidural began wearing off during transition, and how rhythmic breathing techniques grounded her through intense sensations. Her pushing experience – just 40 minutes ending with one powerful "monster roar" push – demonstrates how effective guidance and body awareness can create efficiency even with pain management.

The conversation extends beautifully into postpartum reflections, where Ainsley shares her surprise at how unprepared she felt for recovery despite extensive birth preparation. Her analogy of "training for a marathon and then getting hit by a bus" perfectly captures what many new mothers experience. She offers practical insights about creating protective space in those early days and honoring the profound bodily changes that continue long after birth.

Perhaps most compelling is how Ainsley connects her birth experience to her work as an art therapist, revealing how both journeys involve accessing wisdom beyond words. Her newfound "mother bear" energy now fuels her commitment to creating healing spaces where people can express complex emotions through creative processes.

Whether you're pregnant, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about authentic birth experiences, this conversation offers wisdom, warmth, and a refreshing perspective on how preparation and autonomy create empowerment, regardless of birth preferences. Listen, share, and join our community of women supporting women through life's most transformative experiences.

🔗 You can find out more about Ainslee at her website www.revivalthroughhands.com or her instagram @revival_through_hands

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