Day three postpartum, I asked my doula how to get my body back. She said, “Just rest.” I couldn’t—I had a toddler, a house full of people, and a newborn writhing in pain at every feeding. By day five, a fever set in, and my milk dried up within a week. I felt alone, depleted, cold, and malnourished.I had prepared perfectly for the birth; no one told me about this stage.
I was forced to ask for help—revealing that postpartum depression was not a personal failure, but a predictable response to unmet support. Since then, I have devoted my life to creating better supportive systems around mothers and young children.
— Stephanie Seliga Soulseed of Husum
This stand-alone class is a comprehensive experience for everyone—from those preparing for birth to partners, caregivers, and anyone looking to understand their own past experiences. We dive deep into understanding cultural postpartum practices and their deep connection to a woman’s physiological needs, helping you gain essential clarity about the entire recovery period post-birth. It truly takes a village to support women and babies fully, and this course shows you how to cultivate that culture—whether you are the mother or a caregiver. Moreover, you will learn to recognize how the care received (or lack thereof) in the postpartum period can impact lifelong health, whether you were the mother…. or the baby.
Logistics & Details
Food: A light lunch and tea are provided. Please let Stephanie know if you have any allergies or food restrictions.
Cost: Sliding Scale $20–$50
Note: The minimum covers food and the Learn Local Series operating costs, not the instructor’s time. Contributions above the minimum directly support the facilitator for the gift of their time and expertise.
No one turned away for lack of funds.
Registration:
Space is limited to 25 participants.
A minimum of 10 participants is required to run the class.
Refunds are available with 24 hours notice.
Childcare: We aim to support attendance whenever possible. Please reach out in advance if childcare is needed; availability is limited and a set fee may apply.
Continuing Your Journey
This course serves as an excellent overview and preparation for a deeper dive: the INNATE Postpartum Care course offered in February by Stephanie. The February course is a full, immersive, and personalized experience for expectant parents and their caregivers to explore the physiological needs of the postpartum woman, draft personalized postpartum plans, and connect participants with local resources in the Gorge. Stephanie is a certified INNATE postpartum care practitioner. You can learn more about INNATE postpartum care on innatetraditions.com
About the Facilitator
Stephanie Saliga Soulseed is currently in the third trimester with her fourth child. Stephanie brings both depth and playful exuberance to her teaching, weaving philosophy, presence, and practicality into all she offers. You’ll find her teaching regularly at Heartsong Living Arts, supporting families through postpartum care, tending her hobby farm with her beloved family, and living into the everyday work of care and community around White Salmon, Washington.
