The preface offers the vision for this book to be a `Bible' for bodyworkers, akin to Mayes in the field of midwifery. The humble suggestion is that it is a starting point, from where further development can occur. The author Suzanne Yates is known for setting up `Well mother' which integrates shiatsu, massage, ante and post natal exercise/education, infant massage, and relaxation. Her latest book is suggested to be appropriate for massage, shiatsu, yoga, osteopathy and pilates. It is an impressive project as it courageously tries to bridge eastern and western thinking, as well as include comment from the leading people in a variety of fields. Although aimed at practitioners, it is versatile and mainly jargon-free and thus suitable for anyone with an interest in pregnancy and childbirth. The approach manages to be both conservative and forward-thinking. Techniques that could be used in labour and the postpartum period are diligently detailed, with clear diagrams and photography. The use of touch as powerful communication without words is outline, whilst still respecting a hands-off approach to labour. It's hard to be objective with a book that I found useful, enjoyable to read and inspiring. It fits with a utopian view of pregnancy care being integrated across professions as well as a balance between care and knowledge.
Many thanks,
Avni Trivedi
osteopath and cranial osteopath.