Presentor
Nicole Lloyd
Nicole is the founder of SoundBirth, a gentle, practical approach using the voice, conscious breathing and a crystal singing bowl to support women and their birth partners through pregnancy, labour and birth.
A musician, piano teacher and experienced sound facilitator, Nicole created SoundBirth in 2011, bringing together her lifelong connection with music, her experiences as a home birthing mother of four and her understanding of the emotional and physical journey of birth. She has since facilitated SoundBirth sessions, workshops and practitioner training, helping parents and birth workers discover how sound can encourage relaxation, connection, confidence and a greater sense of inner resourcefulness.
Nicole is passionate about making sound accessible. Her work does not depend upon musical ability or having a “beautiful” voice - it invites people to use simple, instinctive sound as a source of support during the intensity of birth.
Helping Her Find Her Voice:
SoundBirth Skills for Doulas
Sound can be a powerful and accessible source of support during labour - but many women feel self-conscious about using their voice, while partners and birth workers may be unsure how to encourage sound without making it feel forced.
In this experiential workshop, SoundBirth founder Nicole Lloyd introduces practical ways doulas can use voice, breath, rhythm and vibration to support relaxation, focus, connection and confidence during pregnancy and birth.
Participants will explore the relationship between breath, vocal sound and the body; experience simple partner practices; and learn how a crystal singing bowl may be introduced sensitively and safely within the birth space. The workshop also considers how doulas can help clients move beyond embarrassment or fear of “making noise” and reconnect with the instinctive use of the voice during labour.
No musical or singing experience is required. Participants will leave with practical SoundBirth-inspired techniques they can incorporate into their support of expectant parents, while remaining responsive to each client’s preferences, needs and birth environment.