Check out our workshops presented by:


Main stage Keynote Speakers

How to have an Awesome Birth

Discover how you can tap into the power of your natural hormones in pregnancy, labor and postpartum to experience calm, confidence, and joy in the experience of becoming a mother. Birth is one of the most intense initiations a women can experience, but prepared with knowledge, support, and informed choice it can be AWE-some. Learn about role of oxytocin, the hormone of love and bonding, in pregnancy, labor and postpartum, so you can overcome worry, enhance your experience of birth, and feel good about the choices you make for you, your baby and your growing family. Find out about natural methods of pain relief to support you to have the best birth possible, whether at home, a birth center or hospital. This is your birth! You deserve for it to be filled with love and joy.

Kara Maria Ananda is a Healing Arts Educator, Holistic Business Coach, Speaker, Writer and the founder of Maia University. She is the creator of global online educational programs for visionary women including the Awesome Birth Teacher Training, the Women’s Healing Arts Teacher Training, and the Healing Arts Business Academy. Kara is an advocate for empowered living, women's health, and transformational leadership. She has over 20 years experience in birth and healing arts education, specializing in mothers and families. Kara is a mother to 3 boys, from teen to infant ages, and a native of Nashua, NH, who is currently traveling full-time with her family around the US sharing about empowered wellness and freedom living. Find out more at: www.KaraMariaAnanda.com


The Art and Science of Breastfeeding and Sleep

Moorea Malatt CPD, CLEC ( “Mo-ray-uh Muh-lot”)
Lactation Counselor-Educator, Gentle Sleep Expert, Parent Educator & Consultant, Postpartum Doula, Workshop Facilitator, Event Speaker

Moorea Malatt is the founder of SavvyParentingSupport.com, an online resource for gentle and naturally-minded early parenting challenges. Moorea is an expert in gentle sleep learning and gentle discipline and gentle potty learning. She is the author of online learning programs and articles.  She leads sold-out workshops and provides private phone consults for naturally-minded parents of kiddos newborn-4years. Moorea has appeared on podcasts, summits and in person giving talks at baby fairs.

As a parent, she overcame finally severe sleep deprivation with her own breastfeeding-friendly gentle approach after she learned everything there was to know about sleep due to her daughter’s sleep disorder. Moorea enjoyed gentle potty learning tremendously with her daughter and son and revels in parenting gently with clear boundaries and respect and consistency. Moorea has 20 years of experience with parents and young children as a Certified Lactation Educator-Counselor (CLEC), postpartum doula, preschool teacher and director, newborn group facilitator, parent coach and a nanny for all of her younger years-and let’s not forget as a mom!  She enjoys horticulture, birding, marine biology, and crafting imperfectly. 

Before all of this, she was a songwriter. After her daughter’s birth, she wrote, sang and played guitar on an album of songs called, “Whip It Out: Songs for Breastfeeding”. She was the owner, director and curriculum designer of Genius: A Baby Academy in Seattle WA. Moorea phone and skype-coaches parents from all over the globe.

Moorea has written for Natural Mother Magazine, Natural Parents Network, Mother Mag and more. 

Natural Mother Magazine Articles: Express Yourself;  Ways to Encourage Gratitude in Young ChildrenUnderstanding Night Terrors and NightmaresRest Assured: Safer BedsharingGentle Discipline is Love

Natural Parents Network Articles: 6 Tips on Screen Time for TotsCuring Mastitis NaturallyKundalini Yoga with Kids10 Tips for Raising and Open-Gender Child

Moorea was a breastfeeding & sleep contributor in The Ultimate Guide to Sex Through Pregnancy and Motherhood by Cleis Press.

  • Certified Lactation Counselor-Educator UC San Diego
  • Postpartum Doula Seattle Midwifery School/Bastyr University
  • BA Psychology University of Western Washington
  • Certified Life Coach- Coach Training Alliance
  • AA ECE Early Childhood Development- Cal State Northridge

Dr. Heather Tallman Ruhm

I am a medical doctor and licensed Family Physician dedicated to helping people reach optimal wellness and improve their quality of life. I know that one-size-fits-all medicine does not fit all sizes, so I approach each patient as a complex integrated human being (not a collection of separate parts). I thoughtfully consider personal stories, life circumstances, signs and symptoms to create an individualized plan. In my roles as clinician, writer, speaker, and professor, I love to teach in a way “that makes sense.”

MEDICAL DOCTOR AND LICENSED FAMILY PHYSICIAN

I am a passionate student of the biomedical sciences. I received my MD from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and completed my family medicine training in Colorado and Alabama. I specialize in prevention, restoration, and integrative medicine (mind-body-spirit-community). I have worked in several integrative clinics, collaborating with holistic doctors and body workers – PhDs, functional doctors, naturopaths, chiropractors, homeopaths, physical therapists, mental health counselors, acupuncturists, Reiki practitioners, massage therapists, and modern dietitians. I have also been an adjunct professor at Nashua Community College for many years.

I embrace the Latin dictum primum non nocere (1st do no harm) and use nourishment and gentle detoxification modalities to support the body and restore balance – simple concepts rooted in a deep understanding of our complex physiology and elaborate biological systems. I try to “walk the walk” as one of those “doctors of the future” described by Thomas Edison, “that gives no medicine, but interests [my] patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.” I learn and teach with an open mind and expect my patients to play an active role in self-care too.

GOOD MEDICINE REQUIRES COMPASSION, COURAGE AND A CONSCIENCE

Good prevention minimizes the “desperate times that call for desperate measures.” I try to empower patients to be pro-active so that they can avoid harmful drugs or invasive procedures unless they are absolutely necessary. I believe that good medicine requires compassion, courage and a conscience along with willingness of medical providers, patients and other services to collaborate in a shared vision to:

  • Identify root causes of illness and address individual health obstacles
  • Understand the historical context of patients’ symptoms and test results
  • Incorporate nutrition, environment, and lifestyle ideals into actionable plans
  • Use sustainable medicine that works with the innate wisdom of the body
  • Help patients and caretakers access practical resources to optimize wellness

On a personal note, I am an avid gardener, cook, and life long competitive athlete. I love nature and the great outdoors. I am a singer, songwriter, yoga teacher and mother (to numerous exchange students too). I grew up in Montana and attended Montana State University. I later met my husband while we were both attending graduate school at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. English is my native language, but I am conversational in German, Dutch and Spanish.

I provide evaluations, consultations and guidance to people of all ages who take an active role in their health and want to partner with an expert to make more informed health care decisions.


Mr. Aaron Live in Concert!

Count on a thrilling musical adventure with Mr. Aaron. With great grooves and an uptempo folk-pop sound, his latest album, “All My Friends Are Giants” tells stories--of a tea party for giants, of Ali Baba, who won't listen to his poor camel, of a duck who likes to think--and features some outlandish instruments, like the bass clarinet, the cajon, and more. Kids and grown-ups alike dance and laugh along to pop favorites, kids classics, and much more!

With years of experience performing and teaching, Mr. Aaron brings unparalleled energy, enthusiasm and creativity to his concerts, albums, and videos. After nearly 10 years as a professional musician in New York City, Jones and his family moved to Concord, NH, to have a baby and open a recording studio. At Rattlebox Studio, he records local musicians, gives private lessons, andteaches weekly music and art classes at his classroom space for kids, Rattlebox Kids. A longtime member of kindie band Karen K and the Jitterbugs, Mr. Aaron has delighted and inspired kids and families all along the east coast. When he's not performing for kids, he tours with 90's alt-rockers Luscious Jackson, and has been seen on The Late Show with David Letterman, and VH1.


Workshop speakers

Birthing From Within™ Taster

Childbirth and Parenting Preparation, Education and Support Program Manager, Catholic Medical Center

Pregnant, postpartum, or never had a baby? – everyone will enjoy this Birthing From Within taster.  Come see why Catholic Medical Center’s childbirth and parenting programs are built on the Birthing From Within ™ model and how they help you prepare for birth, parenting and life.  It’s so juicy, you will eat it up and leave feeling nourished and ready for your next experience.

Farrah Sheehan Deselle, RN, MSN, CLC, CCE (BFW) Certified Birthing From Within Mentor

 

Farrah Sheehan Deselle is a Registered Nurse and Certified Birthing From Within™ Mentor.  She has been a maternal child health nurse in the Manchester community for 20 years.  Farrah manages the Childbirth and Parenting Preparation, Education and Support Program at The Mom’s Place at Catholic Medical Center (CMC) where she teaches classes, develops programs and provides staff development and training.  Farrah also works as a lactation consultant at CMC and provides birth story listening sessions as well as one on one childbirth preparation and facilitates moms groups.   Farrah graduated from the University of Arizona with her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and has her Master’s of Science in Nursing; Health Systems Leadership from Gonzaga University.  She is especially interested in supporting families in their transition to and through birth, postpartum, parenting and changing relationships.

Farrah has served on the board of the New Hampshire Association for Infant Mental Health on the Spark NH Council and as co-chair of the Workforce and Professional Development Committee of Spark NH.  Farrah is also a member of The Association for Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nursing (AWHONN) and the NH Nurses and American Nurses Association. 


Reconnecting with Your Own Rhythm for Healing and Family Planning

A woman’s cycle was once tied closely to the lunar calendar.  Most women today will still experience menses about every 28 days, but there is a wide range of cycle length, duration and characteristics.  In the United States and most other developed countries, women have become less connected to and aware of their own rhythms and cycles, including menstruation, for many reasons: living faster paced lives, exposure to environmental elements and medications, increased body shame in many cultures, and decreased positive messaging about a women’s fertility and sexuality.

Join us for an eye opening workshop about how you can gain awareness of and take control of your own fertility cycle.  Learn how you can use this model to achieve or avoid pregnancy and heal from reproductive and gynecologic health problems. 

Nancy Malo, CFCP, Women’s Wellness and Fertility Center, Catholic Medical Center

Nancy Malo is a Certified Fertility Care TM Practitioner.  She received her training at Creighton University School of Medicine, Division of Allied Health with advanced studies through the Pope Paul VI Institute for the Study of Human Reproduction in Omaha, Nebraska.  She is a Charter member of the American Academy of Fertility Care Professionals.

As Program Coordinator of Catholic Medical Center’s Fertility Care Education Services, she has been involved in the field of reproductive education for more than 33 years.  Her expertise includes the delivery of natural fertility management and human sexuality education from a holistic perspective.  Through education she seeks to empower women to be better advocates of their own reproductive care.  Her focus is to provide women with healthy, alternatives to standard reproductive care through effective systems that avoid the use of chemicals or devices.  She emphasizes respect for the dignity of women and for the gift of human sexuality.


Packing your emotional suitcase

Registries, birth plans, hospital bags, and baby names. Preparing for a baby and the big arrival can be an exciting time for a new mom and the entire family. The physical and emotional demands during this time can be a bit overwhelming. Maybe you have had anxiety or depression in the past. Maybe all of these changes seem to be happening quickly and you are feeling overwhelmed. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression and anxiety for example, are the leading medical complication of the pregnancy and postpartum period. 

Knowing the unique excitement and stressors faced by expecting or new moms and their families, we have brought together the tools that you will need to emotionally prepare for your baby and the life changes that will accompany your little bundle of joy. Prepare to “pack your emotional suitcase” as you learn how to identify symptoms, get support, and experience motherhood as you had hoped.

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. I graduated with my Master’s Degree from the University of New Hampshire. I have completed training through Postpartum Support International to provide more comprehensive treatment for moms and families.  I have experience working in the community mental health setting and also as a hospital social worker. My areas of interest consist of women’s issues (including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders such as postpartum depression), anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, and PTSD. My approach is short-term, client centered, psychotherapy which utilizes techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, and psychoeducation


Intro to Fluff : Cloth Diapering Workshop

Cloth diapering has transformed from the days of safety pins and vinyl pants. Modern cloth diapers are far easier to use and are becoming far more mainstream for many families. The benefits speak for themselves: saves money, they’re more comfortable for baby and far healthier, and you aren’t filling landfills with disposable diapers. Yet for many new parents and families that haven’t ever used the modern cloth diaper, the idea of making the move to cloth can sound intimidating. However cloth is much easier than most people think. This workshop covers everything cloth from A to Z. Learn the differences between the different styles of cloth diapers, how to care for each type, how to properly fit a cloth diaper and more. Whether you have started researching cloth or haven’t even considered it, this full introductory workshop will answer any questions you may have on cloth diapering.

 

Kayla Marie Rajib is a work at home mom and CEO of Littlin Cloth Diapers, a family owned and operated cloth diaper company located in New Hampshire. Littlin Cloth Diapers is most widely known for their Cloth With Courage activist prints. These select prints donate a portion of proceeds to relating causes the company is passionate about. In addition to being a mother and entrepreneur, Kayla also spends time advocating for children’s rights and studying early childhood education.


Creating Healthy Sleep Habits

Join Christine Brown, twin Mom and Certified Child Sleep Consultant at Bella Luna Sleep Consulting. During the presentation, she will share knowledge, tips and tricks on developing healthy sleep habits in your little ones, including creating the right sleep environment, creating a bedtime routine, catching the sleep wave and she will review how much sleep your children should be getting based on their age.  There will be plenty of time for Q&A.  

Topics:

Components of Healthy Sleep

Creating the Optimal Sleep Environment

Recognizing Sleepy Cues

Designing Your Soothing Routine

Catching the Sleep Wave

Sleep Needs By Age


Music Together Demo Class

Come and enjoy 20 minutes of making music together with your child!  Music Together® is an exceptional early childhood musical program that was developed for children ages birth through 5 in 1987 and is now enjoyed by both children and adults all over the world. It lets ‘kids be kids’ and helps their caregivers recognize and nourish children’s natural musical abilities through play.

 Olga Fain is a certified Music Together teacher since 2001 and a Center Director of Music Together at Fain Music Studio, which is located here in Nashua


YOU ATE WHAT...? THE BENEFITS OF PLACENTA ENCAPSULATION 

You may have heard, by now, of the growing number of women who are choosing to consume their placentas after delivery. From smoothies, to capsules and tinctures, this ancient practice has moved from a relatively quiet trend among the birth fanatics and crunchy families, to a commonplace postpartum recovery technique being used all types of mothers. So, what exactly is involved, and why in the world are so many women doing this? Join us for a discussion on all things placenta! We will cover some of the uses, myths, and practices involving placentas from around the world and throughout human history. Learn all about the many benefits modern women,and science, are finding to support some of these practices. We will also cover what is involved in current encapsulation techniques, the benefits to each method, and the ways a trained encapsulator can help you safely turn your placenta into capsules, tinctures, beautiful art prints, lotions, creams and, yes, even smoothies.


Sibling Prep with the Birth Place at Southern NH Health

Specifically designed for developmental needs of toddlers, this class will help your child adjust to their new role using hands-on experiences. Our Instructor will help your child learn how to touch, feed, hold, and diaper a newborn.


Newborn Care with the Birth Place at Southern NH Health

This session will explore newborn behavior, ways to recognize sleep and hunger cues, and give you hands on practice with swaddling, bathing, diaper-changing and more! Get tips on how to nurture your baby’s development and build your confidence for settling in with your new baby when you get home!


Guided Mediation with Jahsah Ananda

The sweet sounds of the flute with the deep sound of the didgeridoo can help us to quiet our minds and connect deeper with our inner nature. This is the essence of meditation and it is my intention to help people connect through the music with the purest parts of ourselves. These primal sounds move through our body helping to loosen and release the tensions and barriers that jeep us from connecting deeper to parts of ourselves we may have forgotten exist. Join us in a powerful meditative sound journey to reclaim our birth right and anchor in the new powerful information we have received during this amazing conference.

Multi-instrument uplifting concerts for individuals or groups. Experience the powerful and relaxing sounds of Didgeridoo, Crystal Bowls, Native American Flutes, Celtic Harp, Bells, Chimes and more.Jahsah specializes in improvising intuitive musical experiences and presentations for private groups, retreats, events, and organizations, as well as personal sound healing sessions. Experience the powerful effects of many sounds and melodies that create balance and relaxation in your body, mind, heart, and soul.Enhance a group movement practice to achieve deeper states of flow connection to your art.You will also learn how the energy of sound can be incorporated into your life to empower your health, spirit, body, emotions, mind, and happiness. An experience with Jahsah is much more than just a concert, it is an inspiration for the soul!


Live Better Now: The Truth about Natural Health and Healing

Dr. Mary loves helping expectant moms and new parents on their journey to better health. As a mom -to-be herself, she knows the importance of a stress-free pregnancy, as well as living a healthier, natural lifestyle. Come learn about achieving better health during pregnancy, preparing for the birth you choose, and how to raise healthier kids. 

Dr. Mary grew up in Tyngsboro, MA after spending the early part of her life in Nashua, NH. Throughout her life, she loved to be active and developed a passion for dance and athletic training. Dr. Mary attended University of Massachusetts Lowell, where she studied Civil Engineering, and it was also here that she met Dr. Phil. After graduating, Dr. Mary worked as a transportation engineer, but maintained her love of health and fitness. She was committed to an active lifestyle and shared that love of health with her students in the dance classes she taught.

During this time, Dr. Mary was suffering from debilitating migraines, which were affecting her quality of life. Fortunately, Dr. Phil encouraged her to visit a chiropractor, which would ultimately change her life. Chiropractic not only improved her migraines, but her overall health increased tremendously. She no longer had to take medications for digestive and menstrual issues, and her frequent nosebleeds completely resolved. Dr. Mary wanted to help others improve their health as well, which inspired her to pursue a Doctorate of Chiropractic.

 


Balancing life today and dreams for tomorrow

During this complimentary seminar, you’ll learn ways to:

·         Balance smart decisions about today with planning for tomorrow.

·         Plot your journey to retirement into doable steps so it’s manageable.

·         Maintain financial balance by being prepared for risks and unexpected events.

·         Create a meaningful legacy today.


PUMPING 101

Please join Holly, from Acelleron Medical Products, for an informative workshop all about pumping! Holly will talk about how to obtain your pump through insurance, the different models offered, the parts and set up of the pump, how the pump works, and going back to work and pumping.


Babywearing Demo

Join Babywearing International to learn all about babywearing , different option and how to safely wear your baby! Yes, they will have tons of baby carriers for you to check out! 


Home buying & selling - What to expect

We will do a quick presentation on the home buying and selling process, and have a q&a session.