Maternal Journal

Maternal Journal is a time to gather with other parents, share experiences, emotions and to be creative. As well as building new relationships, having valuable ‘me time’ and taking time to actually explore how you are really feeling on your parenting journey.

It is for anyone experiencing the emotional and physical changes and challenges in pregnancy, new parenthood or even a few years into the depths of family life first, second or third time round.

The sessions are part of a movement created by mother, artist, midwife & birth activist, Laura Godfrey-Isaacs, with mother and communications specialist, Samantha McGowan.

You can read more about the original project here

How it started
  • Maternal Journal is held at various locations in Bath and Corsham, please enquire for up to date details.
  • Each group is 5-6 weeks, which gives you enough time to really understand the tool of creative journaling, build relationships and develop creatively.
  • We use different writing and visual arts techniques, and materials, to support your mental wellness.
  • All the materials you will need are provided, including a journal. Gratefully supplied through various funding sources.
  • No creative experience necessary. Art, especially when journaling, does not have to be pretty, colourful or carefully planned. It is as raw, honest and spontaneous as birth itself. It is about the process and self-expression not just the final outcome. This is key to your practice. Process over product. Like parenthood, creativity exists in a state of revision and flow, where we are constantly adapting our rhythm. Parents are all creative.



  • Babes in arms always welcome. Unfortunately, it is not suitable for babies or children on the move.
  • Places are limited to keep the group intimate and nurturing.
  • The space is always open and supportive for those commonly difficult, awkward and sometimes isolating feelings parenthood brings with it. The conversations flow where the group needs it to go.
  • Maternal Journal is not recommended for anyone with a history of severe mental health problems. The sessions often bring up strong feelings and emotions, which may not be safe to manage and explore in the given space.



I have a Facebook group where you will be the first to know about when the next group course is running and how to sign up.

Join here

Testimonials

  • The sessions helped me to clear my mind and express how I was feeling in a different way when I couldn’t find the words. Maternal Journal has given me a tool for life.
  • Despite meeting a group of strangers, I left with a group of friends whom I felt safe to be myself with.
  • I really enjoyed having time out from being “mummy”, having a little break from my baby, who I adore, but is hard work.
  • Maternal Journal was a really good chance to share my worries, hopes and fears with others who have been there and get it
  • I really enjoyed being creative with no pressure in actually being any good at art.
  • I love looking back through my journal and seeing how far I have come as a parent, as a person and in my ability to explore my feelings.

There is now a book based on the community movement which I had the honour of contributing to. Inside, you will find more than 80 unique guided journal exercises created by leading artists, midwives, doulas and therapists to boost your creativity and wellbeing and help you reflect during this transformational stage of your life

You can order you copy here

Maternal Journal