Music and Motherhood
Music and Motherhood offer relaxed, group sessions at the Pound Arts Centre to unite new mums and their babies, using music to help navigate the tricky first few months of parenthood.
Perhaps you had a birth playlist, or have heard of ‘The Mozart Effect’ for babies in utero? Music can have a significant impact on mother and child after birth too: it can relieve the symptoms of post-partum mental health difficulties, improve sleep quality and enhance mood – all of which serves to strengthen your bond with your baby.
Run by two music therapists, we’ve experienced the post-partum pressures ourselves and aim to use our knowledge of therapeutic song-writing, musical improvisation, playlist creation, attunement techniques and much more, to explore potential areas where you may be struggling to adapt.
We invite you to bring your babies to sessions and will incorporate them into our practice, using music to communicate, boost oxytocin levels and to further develop your relationship.
Who is it for?
Post-partum women and their babies (up to around 6 months old, no crawlers).
What do you target?
Coping with birth trauma, post-natal mental health, bonding with baby, identity struggles, feelings of isolation or loneliness and much more.
When/Where/How long are sessions?
Sessions are 45 minutes, plus time to socialise afterwards, if you wish.
They take place on Wednesdays from 10am, at The Pound Arts Centre in Corsham.
How long do you attend for?
Sessions are ongoing and there is no obligation to attend weekly or to commit to a certain number of weeks, although we would advise that the benefits are greatly increased with regular attendance.
If you feel you need further support, there is the option for top-up sessions or individual music therapy, if required.
Who runs it?
Mae Dawson is an experienced music therapist and musician, specialising in therapeutic songwriting; she has an 8 month old daughter. Sophie Barford is a trainee music therapist and classical pianist and cellist, juggling life with a 3 year old boy and two older step kids.
How much is it?
We run on a donation basis - just pay what you can each week (cash only).
What do I need to bring?
Your baby, anything that makes you/them comfortable (blankets/toys/snacks/drinks) but most importantly, an open mind.
How do I sign up?
Email mae@therhythmpractice.org to sign up to our next session, or to ask any questions you may have.
