Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariya Charlton.
Mariya , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2019, the arrival of my first child opened my eyes to the incredible world of birth work. Before that, terms like “doula” and “midwife” were unfamiliar, and the idea of a home or birth center birth was completely outside my experience. I had diligently prepared for a natural, intervention-free birth in a hospital setting, immersing myself in books, podcasts, and classes. However, the reality of my birthing experience was unexpectedly challenging. Despite my strong convictions and careful preparation, I encountered medical professionals whose approach was directly contrary to my wishes. While the belittling and judgmental language I experienced during such a vulnerable time was deeply disheartening, it ultimately became a powerful catalyst for change. Connecting with other mothers revealed that my experience wasn’t isolated, and this realization sparked a desire to transform my pain into purpose. This journey led me to pursue becoming a doula, driven by a passion to create supportive spaces where women can experience birth as the profound and empowering rite of passage it truly is. Today, I’ve not only transformed into a holistic and ceremonial doula (I truly didn’t see that one coming), but I’ve also evolved as a woman and mother. Reflecting this profound shift, I no longer attend births in hospital settings, and I now approach all of life’s challenges with a deep sense of reverence and a fierce belief in my own strength and the inherent power within every woman.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Ironically, the greatest challenge I encounter often mirrors the difficulties I faced during my own first birth: navigating interactions with medical professionals who may communicate with my clients in a way that lacks sensitivity during their sacred birthing time. While I hold a firm boundary against any form of disrespect, I also recognize the delicate balance of advocating for my clients while ensuring I remain a calm and supportive presence in their birth space. Beyond the emotional and advocacy aspects, the work is also incredibly physical, demanding a great deal of hands-on comfort and support. Growing up in a family where physical affection wasn’t commonplace, I consciously chose to cultivate this essential aspect of doula care. This commitment led me to not only prioritize my physical well-being through diet and exercise to build stamina for long births, but also to immerse myself in a year of massage therapy training. This journey allowed me to learn the art of providing loving and healing touch, something that initially felt unfamiliar and even a little daunting, but has now become one of my most valuable and instinctively used tools in supporting mothers prenatally, during labor, and in their early postpartum.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I work as a self-employed birth doula and body worker. My practice encompasses a range of support, including both virtual and in-person birth education, body work tailored to the unique needs of each stage of the childbearing year, and, of course, attending births to create a sacred space for mothers to experience labor as the profound ceremonial rite of passage it is. What truly distinguishes my approach is its holistic and ancestrally informed nature. I find deep value in exploring a mother’s family history and roots, viewing it as a potential guide to the generational lessons and strengths that may emerge as she transitions into this significant new chapter. To some this can all sound a bit ‘woo-woo’, but I consider myself a very practical gal. I am committed to understanding the scientific and spiritual principles that often underpin historical birth practices, and I’ve found a remarkable harmony between these realms. My perspective extends beyond viewing birth as a singular event; rather, I see it as a transformative journey spanning two to three years, a profound period of identity evolution. This understanding can feel distinctly different from the prevalent societal narrative that often portrays birth as a heavily medicalized event. I view my mothers as expansive and full of life, not as patients with an illness or injury.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Reflecting on the role of “luck” in my business, I instantly think of my clients. It feels as though the individuals and families who have come into my care were meant to find me, arriving at precisely the right moment. The deep connection I often feel when I work with these families makes me believe in a larger design – a divinely guided intersection of our paths. In terms of what might traditionally be called “luck,” I feel lucky to have never missed one of my clients’ births. While I intentionally manage my schedule to avoid overcommitment, there have been instances where multiple clients have entered labor in close succession. In those moments, a sense of grace has prevailed, allowing me to honor my commitment to each of them. This work is so intimately personal that the bonds formed with my clients often blossom into true friendships, which feels like a particularly fortunate and beautiful aspect of this journey.
Pricing:
- Birth Support: $2,300
- 60 minute body work session: $100
- 90 minute body work session: $150
- Birth MOVES class: $55
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Mariyathedoula.com
- Instagram: Mariyathedoula.atx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089020006314
