We recently connected with Dakota Smith and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dakota, really appreciate you opening up about a very personal topic with the hopes that it can help someone out there who might be going through it. What can you share with us about your journey with postpartum depression and how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
After giving birth to my first child, postpartum anxiety hit me hard, especially with my husband deployed. Those first three months alone with my baby were incredibly lonely. I threw myself into keeping busy, but it backfired. I was overwhelmed, burnt out, and felt like I was losing myself. This eventually turned into postpartum depression. The guilt was crushing, especially while trying to juggle everything, including breastfeeding.
Eventually, I realized I couldn’t keep going like that. I needed to reclaim myself. So, I turned to things that brought me joy and calm: yoga, journaling, and even trying out cryotherapy, which was surprisingly amazing. I also took a leap and started working towards becoming a certified health coach—something I’d always wanted to do but never had the courage to pursue.
But it wasn’t just about activities; it was about rebuilding every part of myself—mind, body, and soul. I made a conscious effort to speak kindly to myself every day, even when I didn’t feel like it. And, I sought help through therapy, which was a game-changer.
What really hit me was learning to be present, to take life one day at a time. It’s about celebrating the small victories, like getting out of bed or making it through a tough day.
To anyone going through something similar: you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help, to take things slow, and to prioritize your well-being. Healing isn’t a race—it’s a messy, beautiful journey, and you’re stronger than you think.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My passion lies in guiding new mothers through a seamless and confident transition into motherhood, without the overwhelming burden of anxiety-inducing information overload. As a certified health coach, childbirth educator, and a mother of two under two, I draw from my own experiences to empower women with knowledge and support.
Having personally experienced the beauty and empowerment of two home births, I immersed myself in research during my pregnancies, learning invaluable lessons along the way. Now, I’m channeling that knowledge into my work and academic pursuits.
Currently, my team and I are on an inspiring journey, interviewing as many pregnant and newly-postpartum mothers as possible for both my PhD research and for the development of an upcoming course launching this year. This comprehensive course will serve as a beacon of guidance for new mothers, addressing every facet of the transition into motherhood from prenatal care, to postpartum support.
I have done hundreds of hours of research so that new moms don’t have to, as well as had my own experiences, of which provided me with invaluable insight. With this course, I hope to help mamas feel empowered and confident in their transition into motherhood without the overwhelm of accessible information.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as particularly impactful: my ability to advocate for myself, my knowledge of subconscious reprogramming and limiting beliefs, and the discipline instilled in me during my time in the Navy.
Firstly, learning to advocate for myself was crucial. Whether it was navigating the healthcare system during pregnancy or standing up for my own well-being, being my own advocate empowered me to make informed decisions and assert my needs confidently.(passion for subject)
Secondly, my understanding of subconscious reprogramming and limiting beliefs played a significant role. Recognizing and challenging the negative thought patterns that held me back allowed me to cultivate a more positive mindset and break free from self-imposed limitations.
Lastly, the discipline honed during my military service was invaluable. The Navy taught me the importance of consistency, perseverance, and self-motivation—qualities that served me well throughout my journey into motherhood and beyond.
For those just starting out, I want to share from my heart: Believe in yourself and your instincts. Don’t be afraid to voice your needs and desires, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Dive deep into understanding your own thought patterns and fears. Challenge them, because you’re capable of so much more than you realize. And remember, discipline isn’t about being rigid—it’s about showing up for yourself, even on the tough days. Embrace each step of your journey with compassion and determination, and you’ll be amazed at the strength you’ll find within.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is a first-time mom who is seeking support and guidance as she navigates the journey into motherhood. She values holistic well-being and understands the importance of addressing her physical, mental, and emotional health during this pivotal time.
Above all, my ideal client is someone who desires to feel empowered and confident throughout her transition into motherhood. She is eager to learn and grow, seeking knowledge that will allow her to make informed decisions for herself and her baby.
Crucially, my ideal client is someone who is feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of information available and is seeking clarity and guidance without adding to her anxiety. She understands the value of a supportive, non-judgmental space where she can ask questions, express concerns, and receive personalized support tailored to her unique needs and preferences.
Ultimately, my ideal client is ready to embrace her journey into motherhood with confidence, empowerment, and peace of mind, knowing that she has the knowledge and support she needs to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stan.store/dakotasmith
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dakotasmith.holistichealth?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dakota-smith-01b1722a0?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Dakotasmithholistichealth?si=_lMZ69Nt1ZH0z0oC
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dsholistichealth?_t=8lgDFk6KzKU&_r=1
