San Diego Hypnobirthing Childbirth Educator | Meet Jennalee
“Birth is not only about making babies. It’s about making mothers; strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength.”
San Diego Hypnobirthing Childbirth Educator
Meet Jennalee Hendricks! Jennalee is a hypnobirthing educator in San Diego who I had the pleasure of meeting recently. We chatted over coffee and immediately hit it off! I felt like I was talking to an old friend who I’ve known for years.
Natural Childbirth
I love meeting others in the industry and collaborating. Having had two natural childbirths myself, I absolutely love what Jennalee is doing for women in San Diego by empowering them to have a natural birth.
Since the majority of my clients are just beginning their journey of motherhood or expanding their families, they may find Jennalee’s hypnobirthing services to be a great fit. There are many different natural childbirth methods and let’s be honest deciding which one is right for you can be overwhelming.
Interview with Jennalee Hendricks
How did you get started? What inspired you to start you own business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. In my early 20’s I discovered the power of the mind and experienced first-hand how life-changing Hypnosis was. This transformation sparked a dream to open a full-service wellness center to educate and empower women to live with intention. Upon moving to California from New Hampshire I got my opportunity to do so with one of my mentors, Deepak Chopra. After four years of the best on-the-job training at The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, it was time for me to set sail on my own journey as a teacher. I wanted to build a business that aligned with my personal mission and supported a balanced lifestyle as my husband and I started our family.
What is hypnobirthing?
HypnoBirthing is a holistic childbirth method that strengthens the mind-body connection and empowers women to harness their natural birthing instincts. Throughout the 5-week course, Mom’s and their Birth Companions learn natural techniques that will support them beyond labor into their roles as new parents.
How does hypnobirthing differ from other childbirth methods? What are the benefits of hypnobirthing?
The foundation of HypnoBirthing rests on the physiological truth that pain is not inherent to birth when fear and negative expectations are released. We believe that when a woman is prepared mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually that she can enjoy a gentle and more comfortable birthing experience.
HypnoBirthing families often report increased satisfaction during pregnancy and birth, and stronger bonds within the family unit. Prior to birth, Mom conditions herself with self-hypnosis and relaxation techniques so that during labor she can inhibit stress hormones and easily release endorphins which are 200 times more powerful than morphine. Special breathing techniques have been shown to protect against pelvic floor damage, and reduce the need for episiotomies, epidural analgesia, and cesarean births. Many moms experience shorter than average labors and note that babies are better adjusted with easier sleeping and eating routines.
Is hypnobirthing for everyone?
HypnoBirthing moms want to feel alert, aware, and connected to their babies throughout labor. It’s for families that want to prepare for birth on a mental, emotional, physical and spiritual level. These parents want to give their baby the best possible start by welcoming their child in a gentle and peaceful way. Although not required, most families choose HypnoBirthing because they want to birth as nature intended with as few interventions as medically necessary.
What advice would you give to a woman considering hypnobirthing as a natural childbirth method?
THANK YOU for investing your time, energy and resources to prepare for the birth of your child. Your commitment to this philosophy and a confident intention for labor creates a positive ripple in the collective story our culture holds about birthing. This method will support you best with daily practice and a belief in your own abilities. You don’t have to “try” to do it right, you simply have to let go and allow your natural birthing instincts to take over.
When is the ideal time to attend hypnobirthing classes during a woman’s pregnancy?
Ideally, at the beginning of your second trimester to take full advantage of all the relaxation techniques that can support you throughout your pregnancy. The course is 5-weeks long so if you’re closer to term at least start by the 32nd week.
What do you believe is one of the most important things a woman can do during birth to feel empowered?
Trust yourself! Trust the wisdom of your body. Throughout birth go within and connect with your baby as if you were holding them in your arms, let that love guide you.
Expecting a baby? I would love to work with you to begin planning your organic maternity & newborn portrait session!
Contact me to begin planning your portrait session!
My ultimate goal as a San Diego newborn photographer is to not only produce stunning images, but to also provide a luxurious, and stress-free experience. The experience includes a pre session consultation to discuss your hopes for the session, access to an exclusive client wardrobe collection for both mothers and babies, complimentary personalized styling so that we can create the perfect look for you, and optional professional hair & make-up services to make you look and feel gorgeous the day of your session. Click here for more details on the experience.
