Ayurveda FAQs

What can I expect at my first consultation for doula services?

We will meet at a public location (for both of our safety) – a coffee shop, park, library, etc. I like to get an understanding of your birth wishes and what you might be expecting from doula support. I answer any questions you might have about doula support and about me.

What happens during an Ayurvedic consultation?

During our consultation, we'll meet virtually or in-person, and I will ask you questions about your health, lifestyle, and habits. I'll take your pulse and examine your tongue and eyes to determine your Ayurvedic constitution. Based on this information, i'll make personalized recommendations for diet, lifestyle, herbs, and other treatments to help bring your mind and body back into balance.

How long does an Ayurvedic consultation last?

The length of an Ayurvedic consultation typically lasts anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.

What should I expect after an Ayurvedic consultation?

After your consultation, I will provide you with a personalized wellness plan that may include dietary recommendations, lifestyle changes, herbal supplements, and other therapies. It's important to follow this plan as closely as possible in order to see the best results. You may also be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

How often should I schedule follow-up appointments?

The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people may need to come back every few weeks, while others may only need to come back every few months. I will work with you to determine the best schedule for your needs.

How long does it take to see results from Ayurvedic treatments?

The length of time it takes to see results from Ayurvedic therapies can vary depending on how closely you follow your wellness plan. Some people may see results within a few weeks, while others may need to continue their treatments for several months before seeing significant changes. It's important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan in order to see the best results.

Another factor to consider is if herbal supplements are recommended. Taking herbs is a natural way to support your body's healing process, but it's important to keep in mind that it can take time for them to work on your tissues. Unlike over-the-counter medications, herbs are not designed to provide immediate relief for your symptoms. Instead, they work to gradually restore balance to your body's systems and promote overall health.

When you take herbs, they need to be absorbed by your body and carried through your bloodstream to reach the tissues that need healing. Once there, they work to support the function of your organs, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. This process can take time, as your body needs to build up the level of the herbs in your system.

What is Abhyanga?

A Sanskrit term, abhyanga means "massaging the body's limbs" or "glowing body." It is derived from abhi, meaning "into" or "glow," and anga meaning "limb." It involves rubbing the body down from head to toe with an herb-infused oil specifically chosen to help balance the doshas, or energies, in your body.

What are the benefits of abhyanga?

Abhyanga has many potential benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality, promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and helping to remove toxins from the body.

What should I expect during an abhyanga session?

During an abhyanga session, you will lie on a comfortable massage table while warm herbal oil is applied to your body using gentle, rhythmic strokes.

How often should I have an abhyanga session?

The frequency of abhyanga sessions depends on your individual needs and health goals. Some people may benefit from weekly sessions, while others may find that monthly or quarterly sessions are sufficient to support their overall health and well-being.

Do I need to prepare for an abhyanga session?

There is no specific preparation required for an abhyanga session, but you may want to avoid eating a heavy meal or consuming alcohol before your appointment. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that you don't mind getting oil on.

Doula FAQs

What is a doula and what do they do?

The word Doula comes from ancient Greek, meaning “a woman who serves.” A doula provides emotional, physical, and spiritual support to people during pregnancy, labor & childbirth, and postpartum.

As a doula, in addition to emotional, physical, and spiritual support, I also offer empowerment to birthing people and their families through:

  • Evidence-based information, giving you greater chances of making informed decisions about their labor and birth.

  • Inform birthing of options by providing pros and cons to routine hospital procedures and interventions. 

  • Assist & encourage birthing partners to be as involved and offer guidance and teach massage techniques and body movements that will help with labor.

  • Offer guidance on creating the birth preferences/vision/plan.

  • Help navigate the hospital system and understand the birthing families rights.

  • Provide postpartum support, which includes newborn care, meal prep, bodywork and use herbal medicine as requested. 

  • Provide community and medical resources.

Are doula services covered by my insurance?

Yes! In 2021, the State of Rhode Island passed the doula reimbursement act. The RI Doula Reimbursement Act ensures that doula services are reimbursable by every Rhode Island insurance plan, thereby increasing access for families and creating a pathway toward a living wage for working doulas.

I accept Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and Neighborhood Health Plan (NHP) Medicaid & Commerical.

What can I expect at my first consultation for doula services?

We will meet at a public location (for both of our safety) – a coffee shop, park, library, etc. I like to get an understanding of your birth wishes and what you might be expecting from doula support. I answer any questions you might have about doula support and about me.