Hello, Im Maria
I am a qualified and recognised Doula and Yoga teacher with a passion and purpose to support and guide women before, during and after their pregnancy; assisting and honouring the process of matrescence. I believe mothers too need to be held, and it is my honour to be able to do so, enabling them to embrace their journey with confidence, power and knowledge.
I am blessed to be a mother to two beautiful boys and want to share the learning from my experiences for women to connect with their babies, honour their bodies, and above all, feel empowered to let go and trust in the process.
My Services
Doula
I have the privilege of supporting women through their birthing journey and during their postnatal period, providing quality care to both Mum and baby, at a time when having support makes a world of difference. My offerings are flexible, designed to suit your choices, providing comfort, safety and advocacy.
Retreats
In collaboration with expert guests, including qualified midwives and therapists, I co-host a variety of retreats aimed to inspire, nourish, connect and guide. With a range of carefully designed agendas, from confidence in birthing to honoring Matrescence, there’s a retreat for everyone.
Yoga
I teach Hatha, Pregnancy Yoga and a Mother & Baby yoga circle, weekly at the Holistic Hub in Copthorne. It is a joy to provide a safe-haven of calm and tranquility away from the pressures of everyday life. I also offer 1-1 private lessons at a location of your choice.
Doula
I have the privilege of supporting women through their birthing journey and during their postnatal period, providing quality care to both Mum and baby, at a time when having support makes a world of difference. My offerings are flexible, designed to suit your choices, providing comfort, safety and advocacy.
Retreats
In collaboration with expert guests, including qualified midwives and therapists, I co-host a variety of retreats aimed to inspire, nourish, connect and guide. With a range of carefully designed agendas, from confidence in birthing to honoring Matrescence, there’s a retreat for everyone.
Yoga
I teach Hatha, Pregnancy Yoga and a Mother & Baby yoga circle, weekly at the Holistic Hub in Copthorne. It is a joy to provide a safe-haven of calm and tranquility away from the pressures of everyday life. I also offer 1-1 private lessons at a location of your choice.
Pachamama Resources
I know first hand just how lonely that postpartum period can be and how having something to get out of the house for can make a world of difference. So, through years of collecting baby and toddler groups around Crawley, Horley, Horsham and surrounding areas, I have created this extensive list of things to do. Click below for your handy guide to the week.
Doula Services
I truly believe that all birth is beautiful; be it a hospital birth or a homebirth, it is my duty as a doula to honour your desires and guide you in what’s best for you and your family. I know just how important the day you birth your baby will be and I am passionate about doing my upmost to ensure that you feel empowered, confident and held throughout your journey.
I will be your trusted and compassionate supporter, your female companion and confidant who will always have your back, should you need it.
As your doula, I will…
Locations I cover are: Crawley, Copthorne, Horley, Reigate, Redhill, Dorking, Horsham, East Grinstead, Forest Row, Southwater, Billingshurst, Brighton, Hove, Lingfield, Haywards Heath, Uckfield, Burgess Hill, Epsom, Lewes, Oxted.
“Maria brought such a calming, positive presence at the birth. Her encouragement and tips made all the difference during the more challenging moments. I truly couldn’t have asked for a more supportive partner on this journey and believe that I wouldn’t have had such a positive birth if it wasn’t for Maria.”
LAURA, DOULA CLIENT
Yoga Classes in Crawley
Yoga has been a part of my life ever since I became a young adult, it has held me and nurtured me through each rite of passage. In 2019, with a 1 year old in tow, I began my yoga teacher journey, graduating mid pandemic.
I continued to then specialise in pre and postnatal yoga, whilst pregnant with my second child. Practising yoga whilst pregnant both times gave me a deeper connection with my baby and the transition I was going through. Since then, I have had the joy of witnessing other mothers find that same connection.
I currently teach a mix of gentle Hatha, Pregnancy Yoga and Postnatal yoga classes weekly at the Holistic Hub in Copthorne. A safe-haven of calm and tranquility away from the pressures of everyday life.
I also offer 1-1 private lessons at a location of your choice.
“I love doing yoga with Maria. She pushes me enough to feel challenged but her classes are great for beginners too, where you don’t feel out of your depth”
AMY, HATHA YOGA CLIENT
Pregnancy and Motherhood Retreats
In collaboration with expert guests, including qualified midwives and therapists, I co-host a variety of retreats across West Sussex.
For thousands of years, women have been gathering in circles, inspiring, nourishing and connecting with one another. With a range of carefully designed agendas, my retreats aim to do just this.
See upcoming retreats listed below or head to my retreats page to find out more.
Confident Birthing Pregnancy Retreat
Sunday 16th November 2025, 10:00am til 4:00pm
Whether it be your first or your fourth child, we want to celebrate and honour the journey you have ahead of you. Regardless of how you may be planning to birth, this retreat is designed to make you feel confident and for you to move into your birth feeling calm, relaxed and empowered.
This experience will include:
• Prenatal yoga • Midwife led confident birthing workshop • Birth vision board creation • Ceremonial Cacao • Hypnobirthing Breathwork • Shamanic Drumming • Nutritious seasonal lunch • Take home goody bag •
Suitable for women from all stages of pregnancy, share the joys and challenges of your journey with a day full of nourishment, connection and peace.
“A remarkable and one of a kind pregnancy retreat. I left feeling empowered, knowledgeable, and extremely self assured following the experience”
JESSICA, RETREAT GUEST
Recent Reviews on Google
Because of the uncertainty, we decided to hire a doula so we could have consistent support and someone to help us advocate for ourselves if our birth plans changed.
From the moment we met Maria, we knew she was the perfect fit! She has such a calming presence and is genuinely one of the loveliest, most caring people you’ll meet! During our three antenatal sessions, she took the time to get to know us and our birth preferences, helping us explore all possible options.
I also attended her pregnancy yoga classes, which I absolutely loved and already miss! They’re such a beautiful way to move and connect with your baby and these also helped build our relationship even further.
Maria was always at the end of the phone during pregnancy and was an incredible support throughout labour and birth. She helped get my birth space ready, contacted the midwives and helped protect our birth space when they were here, helped care for our toddler until family arrived and supported me through surges when our toddler needed my husband. She captured precious photos and videos and ensured everything was taken care of after the birth, so we could fully enjoy our post-birth bubble!
We’re so grateful we found you and can’t thank you enough! We miss you and I can’t wait to join your mother and baby yoga circles soon! ❤️
You can really tell she cares deeply about what she does. She shares helpful tips for pregnancy, birth and recovery, and nothing ever feels rushed or intimidating. I always leave feeling lighter, calmer and more confident about my body and the journey ahead.
If you’re pregnant (or a new mummy) and thinking about trying yoga, this is 100% the place to go 🤍
I am now attending her mother and baby yoga circle and from the very first session, I felt completely supported, safe and understood. Maria creates such a calm, welcoming atmosphere and really takes the time to check in with everyone individually, making sure movements are comfortable and adapted to each stage of your journey.
The sessions have been the perfect mix of gentle stretching, strengthening and relaxation. I’ve noticed such a difference in my back pain and overall comfort, but more than that, it’s become a highlight of my week — a chance to slow down, breathe and properly connect with my baby. Thank you!!
We started the day with a gentle yoga session, followed by meaningful rituals including a cacao ceremony that left me feeling grounded and nurtured. The food was absolutely delicious — all homemade, healthy, and prepared with such care. We were really spoiled!
Maria also offered a small temple massage, and it was incredible. She has such a calming, intuitive presence, and she made me feel completely at ease throughout the day. We also had the chance to ask questions to Chloe, an extremely knowledgeable midwife who provided thoughtful, evidence-based answers to all our worries and curiosities.
The retreat created such a supportive environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing their experiences, doubts, and emotions. I left feeling relaxed, happy, confident, and truly uplifted.
The goody bag we received was a lovely surprise and will be so useful as I move through this phase of pregnancy.
I honestly couldn’t recommend this retreat enough to anyone expecting — it’s so worth it. I’m already looking forward to joining the motherhood retreats that Maria offers. An unforgettable experience!
She brought such a calming, positive presence at the birth, and her encouragement and tips made all the difference during the more challenging moments. I truly couldn’t have asked for a more supportive partner on this journey and believe I wouldn’t have had such a positive birth if it wasn’t for Maria. My partner and mum were also present at birth and they also found her support invaluable. We cannot thank her enough!
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable doula!
Plus she makes the best date snacks 💖💫🥰
I also attended her confident birthing retreat where I first met Maria, it was a wonderful day surrounded by incredible women, the ceremonies and activities really helped me get into the birth mindset and embrace everything that was to come! Would attend one again in a heartbeat.
She then ran my mother blessing which was such an emotional day (in a good way!), everyone who attended said how special it was and how wonderful Maria was 💫🫶💕
Other Services Available
“If a woman doesn’t look like a Goddess during birth, then someone isn’t treating her right”
INA MAY GASKIN
Last Sunday was pure magic - despite the rain, @innerbloomuk was still as beautiful✨🥹
What a powerful and incredible group of women we had join us - the energy was everything and more 🫶🏻
We shared knowledge, connection and gooood food in circle ❤️🔥
Don’t miss our next one - Sunday 17th of May at the @the_sussex_country_yurt 🌱
Early bird currently on - link to book in bio ✨
The midday “gap”—that moment when the morning rush has settled, but the afternoon hasn’t yet begun—is the perfect time to catch your breath. ✨
Join me and @simonejohannaford for Mothering Matters, a 90-minute sanctuary designed to reset your nervous system right in the middle of your day. 🕯️
We’ve combined therapeutic mindful meditation with restorative yoga to help you drop the “doing” and find a moment of true “being.”
Whether you are navigating the physical transformation of pregnancy or the daily juggle of motherhood, your nervous system deserves a moment of quiet.
The Flow:
✨ Grounding: Mindful meditation to quiet the noise.
✨ Restoration: Deeply restful yoga to settle the body.
✨ Holding Space: 90 minutes of pure, uninterrupted “being.”
No expectations. No roles to play. Just a soft place to land and a community that understands.
📅 When: 17th March
⏰ Time: 12:30pm – 2:00pm
📍 Where: @eden_mind_body_spirit
🎟️ Book: Link in bio
Come as you are—tired, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a reset. You are so welcome here. 🤍
#Edenbridge #MindfulMotherhood #PostnatalSupport #MaternalMentalHealth
Exploring Matrescence - Motherhood Retreat ❤️🔥
Matrescence is the transition that happens when we become a mother; a transition likened to that of a child becoming an adolescent, yet, it’s not given the same gravity, compassion and understanding. It is only in the past decade that the female brain has begun being analysed to truly see what happens during this transition.
So many of you asked for a day just for you - to switch off from the mum admin, the requests, the responsibilities. A day to relax, restore and connect with other mothers.
I am so excited that @niafinlay will be hosting this again with me, a qualified Crystal and Spiritual Healer who will guide you with crystals and mandala creation.
Pay in two or pay in full available ✨✨✨
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#motherhood #matrescence #yogaretreat #surrey #sussex
Fire Cider 🔥🔥🔥
That time when @jpbirth influenced me to create an immunity boosting drink to carry us through the winter bug season.
Honestly don’t think my insides have ever burnt this much, don’t be fooled by my husbands reaction! 😂
Have you tried fire cider!?!?
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#firecider #homeremedies
Pregnancy yoga ✨💖
Officially our first course at our new place, I’m so excited to see my regulars and some new faces! Please do book in advance to avoid disappointment 🥹
Any questions or concerns, my DMs are always open 🙏🏻
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#pregnancyyoga #doula #birthpreparation #crawley #copthorne
WOMEN’S CIRCLE 🌀✨ (reposting due to date change)
If you know me, you know that one of my favourite pastimes is attending circles, women gathering together, doing the exact opposite that the patriarchy wants us to be doing 😉
I am so excited to be hosting this women’s circle with the incredible @theotherpathinmind - a mental health expert with years of mindfulness experience.
An evening of crafting, connection, and intention.
An opportunity to step out of the winter hibernation and into the light.
An intimate evening dedicated to the soulful transition into a new season.
As the earth begins to stir, we invite you to gather in a safe, warm space to reflect on what is emerging within you. This is more than just a workshop; it is a “pause button” for your busy life—a chance to reconnect with your intuition and a community of like-minded women.
Our Evening Flow:
Settle & Ground: A gentle mindfulness meditation to arrive in the space.
Reflect: Guided journaling to honour the winter behind us and set intentions for the spring ahead.
Share: A gentle sharing circle—a space to be heard and held (always optional).
Create: The traditional crafting of a Brigid’s Cross, a symbol of protection and new beginnings.
Nourish: We’ll share herbal teas and homemade cake during our craft session.
Whether you are seeking clarity for the months ahead or simply a few hours of quiet peace, you are so welcome here. No experience in yoga, meditation, or crafting is required—just an open heart.
#womenscircle #meditation #imbolc #mindfulness #reflection
Come with me on a day (a school day albeit) of rest ✨
Following a birth, I make sure I have time to wind down, give myself some love and care and truly REST.
This may not look like a lot, and of course if I didn’t have children to get to school or I hadn’t been parenting solo, this could have looked a lot different. But it was perfect for me and I’m so thankful to myself for carving out this time and knowing the importance of it 🫶🏻
#doula #birthworker #surrey #yoga
A different kind of pregnancy journey starts here ✨
They say pregnancy is about the ‘waiting’, but we believe it’s about the becoming. 🌀
Our next Pregnancy Day Retreat - the only one of its kind in Sussex and Surrey will be on Sunday 22nd February at the incredible @innerbloomuk
This isn’t just a break from the noise; it’s a dedicated space, hosted by an experienced Doula and Midwife duo, designed to leave you feeling:
🌿Empowered: Through movement that honours your journey
🌿 Relaxed: In a sanctuary built for deep rest
🌿 Informed: With open discussions on how to navigate the system and knowledge to carry you through birth and beyond
From the stunning location to the nourishing lunch, every detail has been curated so you don’t have to lift a finger. Just show up, breathe and reconnect.
Sunday 22nd February, 10-4
BN5 9XH
Option to pay in 2 instalments available.
Spaces are limited to ensure every mama to be is supported. Click the link in bio or simply DM me FEBRUARY and I’ll send you more details.
#duein2026 #pregnancyretreat #pregnancyyoga #empoweredbirth #westsussex
Part 2 of my Why invest in a Doula series? 🌀
If you’re in the birthing world you will know that sadly the medicalised maternity system is struggling. The NHS is stretched and so are midwives.
A doula can be the perfect bridge between the two, giving you a personalised service and continuity at a time when it can feel like you’re not getting the attention you need from those in the system.
I’m so lucky to have known some pretty wonderful midwives in my lifetime and will do all I can to help make their job easier too! ❤️
Contact me to arrange a free connection call and discuss how we could work together.
#doula #pregnancy #maternity #postpartum #birthworker
Feedback like this from our pregnancy retreats > everything ✨✨✨✨✨
Our retreats are not to be missed.
We make sure our pregnancy retreats are one of a kind, empowering, relaxing, joyful, worth every penny and above all - will leave you feeling like the goddess you are.
We still have the option to pay in two for our next pregnancy retreat in February - with our next retreat in the pipeline if you can’t make this one.
Thank you to those who leave reviews, they mean the world! ❤️
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#pregnancyretreat #pregnancyyoga #doula #midwife
*DISCLAIMER - my husband is the most supportive of what I do. He is a golf professional and therefore that’s his passion, and was clearly feeling brave 😂*
But really, let’s start the conversation, because I know it’s a tough one. I know doula support can look expensive, but where do you put your value? If spending £300 on getting your hair cut and coloured is your thing then crack on. If spending £300 on a slice of support in your week for those first few weeks of postpartum that will give you the rest and recovery you deserve, then you crack on.
We spend endless money on gadgets, buggies, sleep aids, jungle gyms… investing in your mental health and maternal experience is not a crazy spend. It’s an investment yes, but I can assure you my clients are NOT ‘super rich’.
We as a household aren’t high earners, but If I was to ever get the chance again, you can bet I’ll be saving the pennies from when I see those two lines to ensure I get the support I deserve.
Spending ££££ on weddings and holidays and then questioning when we spend on our wellbeing will always be 🤯 to me - let’s change that narrative! ❤️
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#doula #postpartum #maternity #pregnancy
You asked and I listened… sort of! 🥧
I’ve been loose with this recipe not just because i don’t really have a definite recipe but also it just feels a little too personal to put out there in the public.
I’m by no means the best cook, nor do I ever need to be, but my food is made with bundles of love and care ~ and it comes at the right time.. and that’s what makes all the difference.
In all my offerings, whether that be a date filled treat during pregnancy or a lunch spread at a retreat, I include homemade food, an offering which comes from the heart straight to the belly ✨
This spinach pie is a firm favourite in our house, however, my children love it way more when their abuela makes it for them though… and so do I! In Argentina we call this a ‘mimo’ ~ an act of love and care that shows the other person how you feel without words.
Have you got any food that brings pure joy and love in your house? If so, I’d love to hear them 🥹✨
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#doula #postpartum #food
