I’m Shelby, the face behind Sage & Soul Doula. I’m a holistic birth and postpartum doula, offering services in Connecticut and virtually. My fascination with birth and motherhood dates back as far as I can remember. “A Birth Story” was my favorite childhood show, which inspired me to attend my family members’ births. The biggest perk of being the youngest of six kids and many cousins was the abundance of babies I was constantly surrounded by.
Fast forward to my senior year of high school, we were required to complete a large project on a topic of our choice to graduate. My sister had a homebirth that year, which led me to choose the topic of hospital birth vs. home birth. I had never been more passionate about a school project before. I read all the books, completed extensive research, and watched “The Business of Being Born,” which really piqued my interest. That project ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, with the goal of working in Labor & Delivery.
Fast forward a little more, I landed my dream job and had the honor of witnessing many birthdays, as well as caring for families in the immediate postpartum period. As time went on, I realized I had more to offer than I was able to during my shifts, where my time was split between many. I took several trainings during this time, hoping to figure out how to best serve this population. I felt that I was being called to this work outside of the hospital walls. I wanted to form stronger, longer lasting relationships with the families that were sharing their most memorable and vulnerable days with me.
And so, Sage and Soul Doula was born. I completed my doula trainings and have been slowly chipping away at all that’s involved in building something from the ground up.
In January 2023, I joined the motherhood club, welcoming my son into the world. I didn’t think it was possible, but my passion became even stronger. The postpartum period forced me to slow down, bringing clarity to what direction I should move in. That entails diving head first into this work, to help other women experience an easier transition into their motherhood era.
Motherhood is a 24/7 gig, that changes our identity and place in the world. It can be extremely overwhelming without the right tools and resources. During this emotionally and hormonally charged, often foggy time period, even the most educated and prepared individuals require support. I’m hoping to be that for you.
I have a unique perspective from my professional background as a nurse, and now I’m right there alongside you, experiencing this wild ride. My goal is to encourage a more village-like or community approach to mothering. Humans are meant to do this together. I want to help you thrive, rather than just survive. To help you through the hard parts, so you can fully enjoy the fleeting magical moments.
In my spare time, I’m either totally embracing my homebody tendencies-cuddling my cats, husband, and baby while enjoying a good book and a cup of tea. Or, I’m traveling the world and looking for my next big bucket-list adventure. I’ve been known to jump out of a plane, get open water scuba certified in Curaçao, and snorkel between tectonic plates in Iceland. I would love to be a part of your adventure into motherhood.
If you think we would be a good fit, please reach out (:
