I am partway through my reflexology journey with marna as I am working on fertility…read moreI can't explain how incredible her touch feels and how much she knows the body and exactly what parts need working on in the feet. It's all connected and it's incredible to get everything flowing hopefully preparing for a baby. She cares and takes the time and is so gifted I'm so grateful SPARROWS ‍ NEST is in LA

Save your money and go to a prenatal chiropractor or physical therapist instead. I've found those…read moreto be genuinely far more effective for real pregnancy-related aches and pains. I paid over $300 for a prenatal massage here and left feeling frustrated and completely unsatisfied. I came in specifically for lower back pain relief, and despite asking the therapist at least four times to use more pressure, the massage stayed extremely light the entire time. I've had many massages, including prenatal ones, so I know my expectations are reasonable. What made it worse was how my requests were handled. At one point the therapist told me that "if you haven't had a massage in a while your nerves might be asleep," which felt dismissive and didn't really make sense. She then said she would "just press and hold in places" rather than actually massage. That's not what I paid for, especially at this price point. It was clear she was inexperienced, and while everyone starts somewhere, a specialized prenatal setting with premium pricing isn't the place for that learning curve. When I followed up afterward, I was quickly passed off to a business manager via text with very little acknowledgment of my concerns. Their own receptionist had already admitted the therapist was new and less experienced, so the lack of follow-through felt tone-deaf. The owner did eventually offer a full refund, but the way it was handled felt even more dismissive, basically making it clear I wasn't welcome back. Overall this experience was overpriced, underwhelming, and poorly handled from start to finish. I would not return.

I worked with Dr Lindsey Mathews throughout my pregnancy to make sure I was aligned…read more(chiropractic-wise) and in shape for a successful birth, and then worked with her postpartum as well throughout my recovery. Part of that was attending the Birthfit Postpartum series in Venice, which was taught by Emily from the Birthfit team (she is so wonderful too!). This series was instrumental in getting me moving again (safely), and teaching me not just the "how", but the "why" of certain movements. They also coach you in nutrition to make sure that as a new mom you're eating appropriately to not only live a healthy lifestyle, but also to make sure you are eating to provide nourishment for baby. This is the best program out there, and not only that, but the people behind Birthfit are the best there is! I would recommend any/every aspect of Birthfit to every expecting and postpartum momma out there!

From the owner: Fitness, nutrition, chiropractic and mindset training for women in prenatal and postpartum stages…read more The unique services that we offer are The BirthFIT Basics Consultation, The BirthFIT Postpartum Series, and BirthFIT the Series as well as The Fourth Trimester Body Recovery Package. Other services include birth doula packages, personal fitness training, HypnoBirthing classes, and chiropractic. Our focus is you, mom, so that you may be the best you for your baby! Pregnancy is not a time to eat for two or turn couch potato. It is a time to train you mind, body, and soul for the biggest athletic event of your life. BirthFIT is a lifestyle. It is the daily decisions, the yummy food, the blood pumping exercise, and the nourishment we give ourselves. Join the movement. Choose to be BirthFIT!

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Jessica Sykora, my postnatal personal trainer. She came…read moredirectly to my home in Marina Del Rey, was always incredibly professional, organized, and prepared, which made the entire experience stress-free and enjoyable. After having my baby, she helped me regain my strength, confidence, and get my body back into amazing shape -- and the results were so phenomenal that I've continued training with her for the past two years. I highly recommend her to any mom looking for personalized, supportive, and effective training.

I started training with Jessica when I was 4 months pregnant with my first child. My biggest…read moreconcern and why I wanted to get a trainer while I was pregnant was so that I could make sure my form and technique was correct and that everything I was doing was safe during the prenatal period. Jessica was so knowledgeable on how to successfully train prenatal women while maintaining a strong emphasis on form and technique. She was sensitive to the fact that I was pregnant, but also pushed me to challenge myself when I felt comfortable. When I started training with her postpartum, all the work we had done throughout pregnancy only grew and she continued to challenge me. Nearly 9 months postpartum and I could not believe my strength and confidence with a program that had felt so foreign when I first started training with her. When I found out I was pregnant again at 10 months postpartum, she seamlessly transitioned me back into a prenatal program that was more challenging than my first, but totally doable. Jessica is simply the best. She will get you into shape, but also challenge you in ways you didn't think possible especially while prenatal and/or postpartum. Trainer turned friend, I'd recommend Jessica to any expecting Mom or new Mom alike.

I can't recommend Village Birth enough. So many amazing practitioners, so much helpful information…read moreall in one place, and a great community to boot. My husband and I took several classes at Village Birth leading up the birth of our baby, and I found my amazing lactation consultant, Hideko, after taking a very informative breastfeeding class with Yvonne. Hideko was an invaluable resource to me after the baby was born and continued to be for many months afterward. There was no way I would be able to breastfeed as long as I have if it weren't for her. Separately, I worked with prenatal chiropractor Dr. Jenny Stofer as well, who is also part of the Village Birth group now. I had experienced quite a bit of discomfort in my back during my pregnancy and she always made me feel at ease, listened to my concerns, and took care of any issues I had quickly and gently. I always left my sessions with her feeling energized, supported and like my baby had more room in there! It was incredible. Village Birth is made up of such a thoughtful, supportive and kind group of individuals who are talented and passionate about their work. If you're nearby and having a baby, it is the best place for top notch care and information!

I went to village birth in their bundle it was well worth the money. My husband and I did our birth…read moreeducation classes, newborn essentials, feeding and getting ready for the fourth trimester. Thru their doula match we found an amazing postpartum doula. I also did some of their prenatal circles and will be doing their post partum circle soon. Always a fun mix of women who go there, and I know the business can't control who signs up for classes but I wish more POC women and couples went. My first circle it was very intimidating being the only POC there.

I really want to thank Debbie for being so wonderful. She is such a professional in her field, and…read moreso knowledgeable. In the crazy tumultuous times of labor and welcoming a newborn into your life, the last thing you wanna do is an extra task. But Debbie was ON IT. she was so well informed, kind and a great communicator. She worked with us, navigated all the Hospital paperwork, had the dried placenta pills delivered it so promptly!!!! I would wholeheartedly recommend this to all mamas to be. Excellent experience all around! Thank you Debbie and LA Birth Partners!

As first time expecting parents, the multiday course built a solid foundation for us for the birth…read more It was awesome to do the class as a couple, each person in the relationship plays a critical role. The vibe was calm and expert. With decades of collective experience across hundreds of doula's in their network, Cheryl and Khefri taught it and you just felt their commitment to your eventual birthing experience and that this was their passion in life. They are accessible and show up for you like someone who would do this good work for free because they love sharing their superpower for the good of you and your family. And people would and should pay them millions for the service and everlasting memories they empower us to have, truly a unique and life changing experience and partnership. I got a recorded meditation that I literally listened to 100 times everytime I rested or took a bath. Come time for go time, it all fell into place. They instilled in us that we are not sick, or needing external help to give birth - I truly felt that our bodies know what to do, are built to do this, and that it's a natural and easy process - not something to fear, resist, fight, or try to make go away ie the contractions are our bodies doing a job and nothing to be afraid of. In fact, what if we embraced, allowed for, and appreciated the power of the body and our spirits to see this process through? Khefri's newborn class was incredible. We did a one on one. She gave us a literal list with links if needed, of what to buy if you are having a baby lol! What you'll need within the first 2 weeks. She showed us how to swaddle and bathe, hold and care for a newborn. I attended some of Khefri's kundalini yoga sessions for expecting mothers. It was so soothing and power inducing that I ended up playing the playlists during my 6 hours of labor. I was an over 40 first time mother. With Khefri (doula) and LA Birth Partners (class) and Birthfit (fitness) and LA Midwives as my partners - we had a successful and easy home birth as well! Though all the practices we could easily have tried at the hospital. In fact, a few months ago, I assisted my sister in her first birth as well. We did it at the hospital but was able to get contractions started naturally, used calming homeopathics and techniques (like birthplan on the door, don't ask me if I need pain meds I'll tell you, candles, cover bright machinery and lower beeping, etc). We could not have done it without Khefri! Literally, we did our last class from the hospital room. Then after the class ended, Khefri became available by text and phone to help us through the contractions! We had questions about the homeopathics, dosing etc to try to start the contractions naturally. She helped with all of it! I can't thank her enough, she went above and beyond, sharing love and support and expertise even more than any actual family members! You feel like you owe so much to these amazing doula's who believe in and know what's possible with a birthing experience. Even someone like me who'd never even seen a birth before, was able to have a homebirth when our western doctors were more than ready to receive us as geriatric mothers at the hospital. None of it was necessary. And we knew that, because we kept on top of medical visits etc leading up to the big day.

Jason started training us for our wedding. From the moment we met Jason, we knew that he was truly…read morepassionate about his work and wanted to help us achieve our health goals. Jason is extremely down to earth and a pleasure to work out with. His knowledge extends across several training routines. You will never be bored with the workouts. Jason's always switching routines up to keep things fresh. He keeps up with the latest and most effective workout trends. After our wedding, we kept working out with Jason. We then found out we were pregnant and fully utilized Jason's extensive prenatal care expertise. Jason taught me how to use my stomach muscles and train for labor. He always put me and my baby's safety first and only had me do proper and safe workout routines. Even my OBG was impressed by Jason. He would call, text and email to find out my progress during the pregnancy. When I was diagnosed with a high risk pregnancy and pregnancy related health problems, Jason designed a special workout for me. I had to work out under Jason's supervision everyday in the 3rd trimester to ensure my baby's health. When it was time to deliver our baby, Jason was right by my side as he is also a doula. Jason took such amazing care of me in my most vulnerable and emotional time. He selflessly stood by me and stayed on top of the doctors and nurses when we were not in the state of mind to do so. Jason never ever left my side from checking into the hospital to well after the baby was born. He stayed awake for almost the whole labor - all 41+ epic hours. He almost put in as much labor as I did and the baby was born healthy. Jason puts his clients' needs above his own and takes the best care of them. He will never miss a session. He is never late. He is an excellent communicator and understands his clients' needs. He is one of the best and most experienced trainers in town especially when it comes to prenatal care. Jason has an amazing personality and is easy to talk to and trust. My family and I, including our new baby, are fortunate to have found him.

Upon finding out I was pregnant, I set upon finding a personal trainer specializing in prenatal…read morefitness. When I met up with Jason for a consultation, he was prepared with tons of information about pregnancy and fitness and gave me some handouts to take home. We talked about his credentials and I could tell that he truly enjoys specializing in prenatal fitness training and also makes the effort to continue education in this field. We have been working out together weekly since my 6th week (now at 34 weeks!). I like the workouts because Jason focuses on strength training that is important for delivering the baby easier, recovering afterwards and holding the baby once born. He routinely asks how the dr's appointments are going, how I am feeling, if I have any symptoms or pains that he would need to be aware of to adjust the workout to keep it safe, which is not only supportive but also important to make sure that the workouts are tailored to my needs and safe to perform. I like having Jason as my trainer because he aims to coach and inspire without being a drill sergeant about it. After our workouts I feel good for having challenged myself but thankful that I am not in pain like after working with other trainers that really do push way too far. Highly recommended!

I started going to Stroller Strides when my LO was 9 weeks old and the instructors gave me…read moremodifications to help me ease back into fitness at the pace I needed to go. My LO is now 7 months old and I am more fit than I was before pregnancy! I am so happy to have found an exercise plan that I can do WITH my kiddo in tow that entertains her while I get fit. Being a mom is tough. Finding time to take care of yourself is tough. Stroller strides is the perfect place to reconnect with your new body and role while bonding with your new little one! If my daughter and I could write this review together we would say: Mama mama mama mama strong!

This is a great way for moms of all stages to get in a great workout WITH their kids. The…read moreinstructors are patient and high spirited. When the kids get fussy, AND THEY DO GET FUSSY, the instructors don't shun the mommies or kiddos but rather entertain and distract them with songs, bubbles and toys. They'll even hold your babies so you can relax and focus on the workout. The workouts includes cardio, strength and abs; a full body "boot camp" with all levels of intensity for everyone. What I love best about Fit4Mom is the real community and the other great mommies you meet here. We all have similar health goals and we know how hard it is to achieve that with babies/toddlers. The kids get to interact with each other too so we all get to socialize. Wins all around!!

My girlfriend got an Ergo 360 as a baby shower gift. We had no idea how to use it and were a scared…read moreabout doing something wrong. Who has the time to decipher these manuals? Tina came to us and explained everything. She was patient, kind and wonderful with our little girl. She helped us feel confident and safe. My girlfriend liked wearing the baby so much that she had Tina come back and show her how to use some other carriers. All in all a fantastic experience! I would recommend her to anyone.

From the owner: Bond Baby offers full-scale postpartum care including postpartum doula services, baby wearing…read moreconsultations, sign language for babies, infant massage, and breastfeeding support.

I attended a baby wearing event and Kristina was very helpful. I was scared of using my Moby Wrap…read morebefore attending the class and now I'm wearing it with confidence. I got to try see other wraps and was introduced to a sling wrap which I ordered and I can't wait. I definitely got all my questions answered and I'm I would highly recommend her services.

I found out about the baby wearing sessions while I attended Mommy & me sessions at The Family…read moreRoom. After scheduling an appointment, I met Kristina, owner. She was super knowledgeable about several baby carriers including the boba wrap that I had. I was gifted the wrap but never utilized it because found it not user friendly. I pretty much gave up on it and have only been using my ergo Omni 360. Kristina was patient and showed me how to correctly use my carrier.. allowing me to practice and put my baby inside and taking him out. Thank you Kristina!

Dr. Jenny is the BEST Mercier therapist & chiropractor on the planet. Picture the nicest person you…read moreknow... now triple their niceness... that's Dr. Jenny!!! I initially found Dr. Jenny when looking for help with infertility. She is a trained Mercier Therapist which is basically massage and manual movement of the uterus and ovaries. You buy a series of session and while it is expensive it is completely worth every penny. I don't want to be gross here goes... Prior to Dr. Jenny my cycles were short & dark brown in color which now I know isn't the healthiest?. After my second Mercier session something big came out of me & released in the shower. Gross I know but also amazing right!? Then, my next period came and it was completely different - bright red & healthy! Mercier is truly unbeliv As someone with back pain More than half my life, I know almost every Chiropractor in town. Dr. Jenny is the real deal. She gives the gentle adjustments & listens to your body & any feedback you give her to ensure you are completely comfortable with her work. This is so critical because adjustments where the Chiro is just cracking away while the patient is uncomfortable can hurt the patient and create additional problems. Believe me I've lived through this. Beyond being an incredible Mercier & chiropractor, Dr Jenny is like a friend and therapist to me. She's knowledgeable in many areas & gives sage advice when asked (she isn't pushy or bossy - again she's so gentle!). She's full of resources & tips which she'll email post appointment. Tip: She has packages which brings the price down & is a great deal. Parking Tip: Park in their lot. It's really cheap. Sometimes it's full so snag free parking on Bentley Ave, walk down the alley & Enter through the garage.

Dr. Jenny is so so incredible. I never write reviews. But I'd be remiss if I didn't share my…read moreexperience here. We'll never know the myriad of variables that went into us finally getting pregnant (with IVF). But after several failed embryo transfers, I'm PRETTY confident Jenny and the Mercier therapy played a huge role in helping us spark life and bring our baby daughter into the world. We were told there was really no known reason that the embryo transfers didn't take, beyond a potential timing issue. And although I presented with no internal scar tissue, something was telling me this could be at the heart of it. Through the diagnostic process (just feeling around my belly, nothing crazy), Jenny actually found scar tissue on the outside of my uterus as a result of a car accident in college (that I had totally forgotten about!). I signed on for the six sessions. The Mercier therapy is so gentle and yet wildly powerful. I found myself very sore the following days, and my period actually regulated to be a bit easier. Along with acupuncture, I truly believe the work I did with Jenny released the restrictions around my organs, allowed more blood flow to my uterus, and played a big part in helping us immediately get pregnant on our first transfer afterwards. (If you're going through this, I send you so much hope and peace and surrendered patience.) Beyond her expertise and the fantastic results we saw from this healing modality, Jenny also brings such beautiful intuition to every session. She honestly shape shifts the vibe of the whole room into whatever you need. Now, as one of her chiropractic patients, I'm able to witness her incredible intuition around the spots I'm holding tension, without even telling her. Somehow I always leave more grounded and more energized at the very same time. Jenny is a fantastic human. A delight to work with. And a shiny, magical tool in my self-care toolkit.