In this heartfelt episode of The Freely Feminine Podcast, I sit down with Chaya from Shomrit Momtana, a true visionary in the birth space who has redefined what it means to be a “birth guardian.” Chaya doesn’t call herself a midwife in the usual sense—she’s a birth guide who walks with women in the sacred power of bringing life into the world. Her journey is unlike anything I’ve come across, blending deep physiological understanding with a spiritual calling that honors birth as a truly transformative experience. Connect with Chaya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shomrit.momtana/ Listen to the podcast mentioned in today's episode: The History Of Obstetrics on the Momtana Podcast Episode Description: With wisdom rooted in reverence and a powerful presence, Chaya offers us a perspective that’s both ancient and wholly relevant for today. Together, we explore what it means to hold the role of a birth guardian, the delicate art of holding space for a mother’s sovereignty, and how sacred protection can shape a woman’s experience as she brings new life into the world. This episode speaks to any woman drawn to the heart of birth work, mothers or mother's-in-waiting, or those simply seeking to understand the profound role of being held, seen, and honored through life’s most transformative journeys. Whether you are a birth worker, an expectant mother, or simply someone yearning for a deeper sense of connection with the feminine mysteries, Chaya’s insights will invite you to reflect on the beauty of being protected and the grace of surrendering into support. Introducing Chaya and Her Journey as a Birth Guardian Exploring Chaya’s background and her calling to birth work, along with the unique role she plays in protecting mothers through each step of their journey. Chaya shares her vision of a birth guardian as a sacred presence, one that honors both the mother’s strength and the vulnerability that accompanies new beginnings. 3. What It Means to Protect and Hold Space for Mothers The concept of guardianship and protection in birth, not as a directive role, but as a nurturing, watchful presence that allows the mother’s innate wisdom to unfold. Chaya’s insights into honoring sovereignty and autonomy, creating a container where the mother feels deeply seen, valued, and supported. 4. The Balance of Gentle Guidance and Unwavering Protection Chaya describes the balance she holds between guidance and non-interference, respecting the sacred wisdom of the mother’s journey. Reflections on how guardianship, when approached with reverence, creates a ripple effect of empowerment that nurtures the mother’s unfolding experience. 5. Embracing the Feminine Mysteries of Birth and Beyond Chaya and I discuss the timeless wisdom and ancient practices woven into birth work, and how they empower mothers to embrace their fullest strength. The importance of ancestral knowledge and natural wisdom in birth work, and how these elements restore a sense of belonging and sacredness to the experience. 6. Parting Wisdom: The Power of Being Held Concluding thoughts on the grace of being seen, held, and honored in times of transformation. An invitation for listeners to embrace the beauty of receiving support, and to see the birth journey—and all transformative journeys—as an experience rich with sacred protection and sovereignty.
