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Original Post August 26, 2024: On January 1, 2022, the Federal Register announced a significant milestone for military families: TRICARE, the health insurance program for service members and their dependents, would begin reimbursing for continuous labor support and six pre/postpartum visits from an approved doula as part of their new pilot program. While this initiative is groundbreaking, the application process has been anything but straightforward. As a military (now Veteran) spouse, I’m deeply committed to removing financial barriers for service members and their families. However, like many of you, I needed to ensure that I could sustain my work. Becoming an in-network provider wasn’t an option for me, but I wasn’t ready to give up. I spent countless hours on the phone and emailing with TRICARE East and doulas across the country, diving into the complexities of participating versus nonparticipating providers, in-network versus out-of-network options, and the ins and outs of balanced billing. After years of effort, including cross-certifying with an approved organization and submitting all the necessary documentation, I finally received confirmation from TRICARE East — I am now officially a TRICARE non-network, non-participating Certified Labor Doula (CLD)! This means that active-duty members and their families can now submit invoices to TRICARE for reimbursement of my services. It’s a huge step forward in making doula support more accessible to military families. There’s still much to learn about doula support and TRICARE, and it will be a slow process that we’ll navigate together. If you’re stationed at Robins AFB, I’d be honored to support you during your labor and delivery. In the meantime, feel free to share this post and let me know your thoughts on TRICARE’s new policies. I’m eager to hear your concerns, questions, and excitement! PS: Learn more about Tricare Doula Services HERE ! Update: September 6, 2024 I have an important update regarding my doula services. I am pleased to announce that, as of today, I am now a participating  non-network doula. This means I can work with clients through their insurance plans by filing claims directly with Tricare, providing greater flexibility and convenience. Additionally, I have revised my payment policy. Moving forward, payment upfront will no longer be required. Instead, payments will be processed directly through Tricare according to the new terms. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. If you have any questions about these changes or how they may affect your services, please feel free to reach out.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with changes and challenges, both physical and emotional. As your body undergoes these transformations, it's important to prioritize your comfort and well-being. One way to do this is through daily stretches, which can help alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation. In this blog post, we'll explore a series of safe and effective stretches that you can incorporate into your daily routine to support a healthy and comfortable pregnancy. 1. Cat-Cow Stretch: - Begin on your hands and knees, with your wrists aligned under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. - Inhale as you arch your back, lowering your belly towards the floor and lifting your head and tailbone towards the ceiling (cow pose). - Exhale as you round your spine, tucking your chin towards your chest and drawing your belly button towards your spine (cat pose). - Repeat this movement, flowing smoothly between cat and cow poses, for 5-10 breaths. 2. Hip Flexor Stretch: - Kneel on your right knee, with your left foot flat on the floor in front of you, creating a 90-degree angle with your left knee. - Place your hands on your left thigh for support and gently lean forward, stretching the front of your right hip. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat. 3. Side Stretch: - Sit comfortably with your legs crossed or extended in front of you. - Raise your right arm overhead, bending to the left side, and gently stretching the right side of your torso. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat. 4. Adductor Stretch: - Sit on a stability ball with a neutral pelvis. - Roll slightly forward on the ball as you extend the right leg straight out to the side. - Reach the right leg away as you roll slightly to the right on the ball and hold for 10 to 30 seconds (think open and long). - Reverse the motion to return to center. - Switch sides and repeat. That's one rep. - Continue alternating sides for 3 to 5 reps. 5. Chest Opener: - Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart (or kneel with knees hip-width apart) and your arms at your sides. - Clasp your hands behind your back, squeezing your shoulder blades together and opening your chest. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then release. Incorporating these daily stretches into your routine can help you maintain comfort and flexibility throughout your pregnancy. However, it's important to listen to your body and avoid overstretching or pushing yourself too hard. If you have any concerns or experience pain while stretching, consult with your healthcare provider. Embrace the changes in your body and enjoy this special time in your life with these gentle and beneficial stretches. #PregnancyStretching #PrenatalFitness #HealthyPregnancy #PregnancyWellness #StretchingRoutine #PregnancyComfort #PrenatalHealth #RelaxationDuringPregnancy #FlexibilityForPregnancy #PregnancyJourney #Doula #BonaireGA #MiddleGA #FreeSpiritMassage&DoulaServices

Dear Loyal and Valued Clients, I know. I know. I hate to have to write another price adjustment notice like this, but I know that due to our current climate I'm certainly not the only small business owner who is feeling the effect and have to do this in order to keep going. As of 1 January 2024, there will be an adjustment in the way pricing is done. Good news is.... I am only doing away with the discounted rates on top of the discounted package prices! This means all single sessions will no longer be discounted simply by booking a longer session and will be at 100% full price regardless of the length of the session. However, you CAN still get your discount by purchasing a package on the massage deals page. Also, I come with more good news! The new prices will also reflect an all inclusive price. This means you can request hot towels, cupping, stretching, or essential oils during any of your sessions. No upcharge! ALSO, I will be moving to a "no tipping" practice. I have slowly been moving to this over the last year, but starting in January it will be standard practice for everyone. The best tip you can give me is a Google review and even better if you also leave a Facebook review! Doula packages will also have a slight adjustment in pricing to reflect the new prices as of 1 January 2023. I hope you all understand and as always, I thoroughly appreciate your continued loyalty & support!

Foodie Doula Nourish Yourself with a Food Doula Foodie Doula Services offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to culinary support during the transformative periods of pregnancy and postpartum recovery. With a passion for crafting delightful and wholesome meals, I prioritize using local, seasonal ingredients to provide nourishment tailored to various dietary needs. This service goes beyond traditional meal preparation, encompassing grocery shopping, meticulous meal prepping, professional cooking, and organizing the kitchen space. Whether you're seeking convenience, nutrition, or a stress-free dining experience, Foodie Doula is committed to elevating your journey with care, love, and respect. Pregnancy & Postpartum Meals Pregnancy and childbirth represent some of the most physically and mentally demanding experiences for the human body. Ensuring a positive pregnancy and postpartum journey requires ample rest and nourishing meals that prioritize overall health and recovery. Foodie Doula meals are meticulously crafted to provide comfort, deliciousness, and restoration during this transformative period. Cooking delectable and wholesome meals for my family and friends has always been a source of passion for me. My commitment revolves around using local, seasonal ingredients that provide nourishment during the demanding periods of pregnancy and postpartum recovery. With experience catering to d iverse diets such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, wheat-free, and more, I understand the importance of keeping your body well-nourished during these crucial times, even when it tends to take a backseat. I'm here to lend a hand in ensuring you receive the nutritional support you need. The Details: Welcome to my comprehensive Food Doula service, where we elevate your culinary experience by offering comprehensive care for all your kitchen needs. My service extends beyond traditional meal preparation to provide a seamless, stress-free experience tailored just for you. Together, we’ll design a personalized meal plan that aligns with your dietary preferences, incorporating nourishing ingredients to support your immune system, digestive health, and pregnancy and both pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Grocery Shopping: Skip the hassle of shopping with a curated list tailored to your needs. I select fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure every meal is both delicious and nutritious. ​ Meal Prepping: Enjoy the convenience of expertly prepared meals. I handle portioning, packaging, and labeling, so you can effortlessly enjoy a balanced menu throughout the week. ​ Cooking: Relish professionally crafted meals without lifting a finger. I bring my culinary skills to your kitchen, transforming quality ingredients into dishes that cater to your tastes. ​ Organizing: Experience the ease of a well-organized kitchen. I’ll arrange your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry, ensuring everything is in its place for effortless meal preparation. ​ At Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services, LLC , my mission is to enhance your dining experience with a holistic approach, offering a professionally managed kitchen so you can savor every meal without the stress of preparation and organization. ​ Why choose my meal services? ​ Meticulous Protocols: I follow strict sanitation, timing, temperature, and preparation protocols to ensure the highest quality and safety of your meals. Certified Expertise: With a current Food Handlers’ Safety Certificate in Georgia, I bring certified knowledge to ensure your meals are safe and healthy. Regulatory Compliance: I adhere to OSHA and state guidelines for food handling, maintaining top hygiene standards in meal preparation. Dietary Adherence: I pay close attention to dietary restrictions, ensuring your meals meet your specific preferences and needs. Foodie Doula Free initial consultation to explore family meal preferences, recipes used, dietary requirements, portion preferences, and organizational desires. We can tailor services to focus solely on food preparation or kitchen organization, depending on your preferences. Meal Suggestions: (Feeling weary of your usual meal lineup? Explore a suggestion below for a refreshing change.) Soups: ​ Rosemary Chicken Noodle Soup Spiced Cauliflower + Sweet Potato Soup Miso Mineral Soup Quinoa, Lentils + Greens Soup Chicken, Red Dates + Ginger Soup Creamy Kabocha + Red Lentil Soup Egg Drop Soup with Liver + Greens Seaweed Soup Thai Green Curry Soup ** Lemon Greek Orzo Soup Corn Soup with Coconut Milk and Lime * Chicken Vegetable Soup Ginger Chicken Soup Lentil Soup with Turmeric and Lemon Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Pork and Mustard Greens Soup * Creamy White Bean and Kale Soup Kale and Potato Soup with Chorizo ** Creamy Cauliflower Potato Soup Herb filled Tomato Soup Chicken Enchilada Soup * Vegetarian Tortilla Soup * Creamy Tortellini Soup ​ Stews: Golden Healing Stew Hearty Sausage Stew Oxtail Stew Stout + Chocolate Chili Grass Fed Beef Chili * Beef Stew Tuscan Farro Stew Chicken Pozole Verde Miso Tofu Stew Moroccan Vegetarian Stew ** Braised Beef Stew Beef & Pepper Stew * Sweet Potato Lentil Stew Thyme Chicken Stew ​ Broth, Teas & Tonics: ​ Goji Berries & Red Date Tea Homemade Ginger Ale or Ginger Tea Red Raspberry Leaf Infusion Tea Ginger, Turmeric + Honey Tea Cumin + Fenugreek Tea Ginger Tea w/ Fennel + Goji Berries Lactation Tea Golden Milk Latte Bone Broth Latte Mango Green Smoothie Peachy Green Smoothie Turmeric Ginger Tonic Hibiscus Lime Tonic Turmeric Tonic Beef Bone Broth Oxtail Bone Broth Chicken Broth Fish Broth Shiitake Immune Boost Broth Beef or Chicken Bone Broth w/ Turmeric and Ginger Scallion Ginger Bone Broth Mushroom Miso Broth Snacks + Desserts: ​ Granola Clusters Coconut + Fig Granola Little Lactation Cookies Chickpea Flour Ginger Cookies Dark Chocolate Cherry Cookies with flaky sea salt Chocolate Avocado Pudding Cookie Dough Bites No Bake Lactation Bites Seed Strong Chocolate Energy Balls Sunflower Flax Energy Balls Peanut Butter + Honey Rice Crispy Treats Gooey Chocolate Brownies Charcuterie Snack Box Pineapple + Lime Fruit Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Harvest Pasta Salad with Basil Green Salad with Strawberries + Sweet Almonds Brussels Sprout + Pear Salad with Quinoa Greek Garlic Kale Salad Romaine Lettuce Wraps ​ ​ Breakfast: ​ Apple Zucchini Oat Bowl Blueberry Overnight Oats Oatmeal Fruit Bowl Overnight Flax + Chia Pudding Chai Yogurt Bites Almond Chocolate Oat Bars Lemon + Ginger Carrot Muffins Double Chocolate Lentil Muffins Blueberry Zucchini Muffins Spiced Sweet Potato + Quinoa Muffins Cinnamon Chocolate Banana Loaf Sheet Pan Pumpkin Pancakes Buttermilk Biscuits (plain or cheddar/scallion) Red Pepper Basil Egg Cups Frittata Breakfast Sandwich Sweet or Savory Breakfast Toast * Spicy option available ** IS spicy Request Foodie Doula Support >

20% Savings on These Deals! Package Deals will be sold using eGift Cards that will be charged after each session. This will allow us both to keep track of your sessions as you use them. You must purchase an eGift Card for the amount listed for the session length/type you are purchasing and add a "personal message" with the session you are purchasing. ​ Package Deals and Gift Card/Certificate Policy ​ All prepaid packages and gift certificates are non-refundable and must be used within a year of purchase. You may use any prepaid, unexpired sessions at any time, or they can be used by a friend or family member of any gender. Just let me know who you plan to share your packages with. ​ You may also choose to donate one (or more) of your sessions as a Gift Certificate or to the Pay It Forward program. Any requests for refunds or extensions are issued at the sole discretion of Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services, LLC. ​ All packages come with five (5) massage sessions! ​ BOOKING Pre-Paid Sessions: You can book these sessions using the booking calendar HERE at the bottom of the booking site. Please use the appropriate timed option for the package you purchased. You will start with "Session 1 of 5" of move through the options from there. eGift Card Package Deals Prenatal, Postpartum & Custom Massage Packages 60 Minutes 440 90 Minutes 660 120 Minutes 880 150 Minutes 1100 **Prenatal & Postpartum clients are not permitted for 150 minutes. Sport Stretching Massage Package 90 Minutes 720 Purchase eGift Card

Sibling Doula You've secured your birth doula for on-call support and have your postpartum doula and plan in place for a smooth transition into parenthood. Yet, as expected, numerous questions arise. Who will care for your older child(ren) while you're in labor? Who can be on-call to watch them during childbirth? When labor begins, who will attend to your children? Often, our clients lack family nearby, and while friends are fantastic, havi ng a friend consistently on-call can be challenging due to their own families and careers. This is where your Sibling Doula steps in! ​ What is a Sibling Doula? In a nutshell, a Sibling Doula does whatever you, your family, and your child(ren) need! ​ Sibling Doula services include: ​ 1. 24/7 on-call availability to care for your older child(ren) during your labor and birth. 2. Providing full care for your child at home or another location during your labor, including meal preparation, educational activities, and maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment. 3. Answering any questions about the birth with care and thoughtfulness while you're away. 4. Performing basic household tasks like loading the dishwasher, preparing meals, and tidying up. 5. Bringing your child to the hospital or birthing place to meet the new baby if requested. (Proper car seat safety required.) 6. Supporting your partner and you at the hospital if your partner needs to check in and share time with other children. 7. Staying with your child in the immediate postpartum period until further arrangements are made. 8. Assisting with the adjustment of siblings to the new baby after returning home. 9. Providing text, email, call, and/or video support throughout your pregnancy during normal business hours. ​ Before labor/delivery: ​ Two in-home "play-date" visits - We will schedule two in-home visits to get to know you and your child(ren) before the birth. ​ 1. First visit: Getting acquainted with your child(ren), birth and postpartum plans and gathering information relevant to child(ren) care. 2. Second visit: A two-hour "date night" for you and your partner, allowing your child(ren) to become more comfortable with the Sibling Doula and familiarize themselves with your home and routine. ​ On-Call Sibling Doula Support: ​​ 1. When to contact the sibling doula – It is the client's responsibility to inform the doula of any changes that may indicate impending labor. The sibling doula may require 1-2 hours to reach the client once called, depending on location and traffic conditions. 2. The complete fee for the sibling doula service covers the selected number of care hours. Should the client require the doula for additional hours, an hourly fee will be applied and invoiced post-birth. This additional payment is due within 2 weeks of the client's birth if applicable. The contracted hours for sibling doula support exclude time for the prenatal visit, as well as any phone/text support. 3. After delivery, the sibling doula can accompany the child(ren) to the hospital for them to meet their new sibling and capture family photos if desired (please note, I am not a professional photographer). Sibling Doula Investments Sprout - One Consultation - Two-hour date night - Text, Email, Call, support – Sibling Labor and birth support for 4 hours Seedling - One Consultation - Two-hour date night - Text, Email, Call, support – Sibling Labor and birth support for 8 hours Bud - One Consultation - Two-hour date night - Text, Email, Call, support – Sibling Labor and birth support for 12 hours Additional Services Sibling doula hours up to 12 hours In-person/virtual prenatal visit- (max 2hrs) In-person/virtual postpartum visit- (max 2hrs) Lactation feeding Counseling - hour 90-minute massage sessions 60-minute massage sessions Infant massage class - hour Birth Plan Counseling- hour Request Sibling Support