Why I Love Making Overnight Oats for My Postpartum Clients

As a postpartum doula in Newcastle, one of my favourite things to do is nourish new mums with simple, wholesome food that makes their days a little easier. Overnight oats are one of my go-to recipes, and for good reason—they’re quick, healthy, delicious, and can be eaten straight from the fridge with one hand (which every mum knows is essential in those early weeks with a newborn!).

Nourishment in a Jar

When you’ve just had a baby, your body is doing a huge job—healing, producing milk, and adjusting to a whole new rhythm of life. Food that’s packed with goodness, but also easy and comforting, makes all the difference. Overnight oats tick every box

• Oats: full of fibre and protein, and because they’re low GI, they keep energy levels steady during long days and broken nights.

  Chia seeds: tiny nutritional powerhouses with omega-3s, fibre and essential minerals that support recovery and digestion.

  Greek yoghurt and milk: provide protein and calcium, helping with bone health and repair.

  Fruit: adds natural sweetness, vitamins and fibre, keeping things light and fresh.

And the best bit? No refined sugar. I use a drizzle of natural maple syrup—just enough to bring out the flavour.

Why New Mums Love Them

Overnight oats can be prepared in advance, so there’s always something ready to grab from the fridge. New mums often tell me how grateful they are for having something nourishing on hand that doesn’t take any thought or effort. They can eat it cold while breastfeeding, spoon it in one-handed, and know they’re fuelling their body well.

As a doula, I love that this little jar of oats can provide both comfort and energy. It’s one of those simple gestures of care that makes life in the postpartum period just that bit gentler.

My Base Recipe

Here’s the base I use for each serve of overnight oats:

½ cup oats

½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

¼ cup Greek yoghurt

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 tablespoon maple syrup

Mix it all together in a jar or container, then top with whatever you fancy. Pop it in the fridge overnight and it’s ready to go in the morning.

5 Flavour Variations

To keep things interesting, here are some of my favourite variations that my clients love:

1. Berry Burst - Top with frozen raspberries and blueberries. They defrost overnight and create a lovely fruity swirl.

2. Mango Magic - Add frozen mango chunks and shaved coconut for a tropical, creamy flavour.

3. Apple & Cinnamon Comfort - Stir through stewed apple, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a pinch of turmeric for a warm, soothing taste.

4. Banana & Peanut Butter Boost - Slice in a banana and add a spoonful of natural peanut butter for extra protein and creaminess.

5. Pear & Nut Crunch - Mix in stewed pear, then top with a sprinkle of walnuts or almonds for a little crunch.

A Small Act of Care

For me, overnight oats are more than just food—they’re a small act of care for mums during a time when they’re giving so much of themselves. Preparing a few jars means a mum has five days of nourishing, ready-to-go breakfasts waiting in the fridge. It’s one less thing for her to worry about, and a simple way to start the day feeling supported.

Entering the world of postpartum doula work while being a mother of four beautiful children might sound like a juggling act, but for me, it's a calling and a passion. My journey as a postpartum doula in Newcastle, Australia, has been a rewarding adventure that has allowed me to support new parents during one of the most transformative times in their lives while cherishing my own growing family.

Transitioning from years in the hospitality industry to becoming a postpartum doula has been a truly transformative journey. While my previous career was centered around providing exceptional service to guests, my role as a postpartum doula allows me to channel that same passion for caring into something deeply meaningful. In hospitality, I learned the importance of attentiveness, empathy, and going the extra mile to make people feel comfortable and valued. These skills have seamlessly translated into my work as a postpartum doula, where I get to provide support, guidance, and comfort to new parents during one of the most pivotal moments of their lives. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the transition from uncertainty to confidence and to be a source of comfort and reassurance during this incredible journey into parenthood. This career shift has not only allowed me to continue caring for others but has also given me a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment in my work.

Every day in my life as a postpartum doula is an adventure, much like being a parent to my four little ones. The chaos of motherhood has equipped me with patience, flexibility, and an unshakable empathy that I bring to my doula work. I understand the exhaustion, emotions, and joys that come with newborns, and this shared experience connects me with the families I serve.

As a postpartum doula, my mission is to empower and support new parents as they embark on their parenting journey. I offer guidance on everything from newborn care and breastfeeding to postpartum self-care and emotional well-being. My goal is to help these families navigate the early days of parenthood with confidence.

Balancing my own family with my doula work requires careful planning and a supportive network. My partner and older children play an essential role in supporting me, allowing me to provide dedicated care to both my clients and my family. It's all about finding harmony in the chaos.

Being a postpartum doula has taught me to appreciate the little moments—both in my clients' lives and in my own. I celebrate the milestones and the joys of new parenthood with the families I serve, and it reminds me to do the same with my children.

Newcastle has a vibrant community of parents, and I'm grateful to be a part of it. I've built strong bonds with fellow parents and doulas who share my passion for supporting growing families. Together, we create a network of support that extends beyond our professional roles.

Life as a postpartum doula in Newcastle, Australia, while raising four beautiful children, is a harmonious blend of chaos, joy, and empowerment. My journey as a mother fuels my passion for helping new parents, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, reminding me that the beautiful chaos of motherhood and doulaing is a journey worth cherishing.

10.10.23

Navigating the concept of a postpartum doula might seem unfamiliar or even daunting at first. Questions like "Why hire a postpartum doula?" and "What even is a postpartum doula?" may have crossed your mind. I've been there myself, a mother of three, and I understand the hesitations surrounding this valuable support service, especially in Australia, where it's not as widely recognised as it should be.

In a world where everyone seems to have an opinion on your pregnancy, birth, and parenting choices, the need for unbiased, non-judgmental support becomes increasingly apparent. Family help, while well-intentioned, often comes with conditions, biases, and a barrage of opinions that may not align with your preferences.

The role of a postpartum doula is to "mother the mother." This means providing nurturing, love, and support while listening to your fears and concerns without judgement. After my third baby, I realised the value of such support. I wished for someone to ease my day-to-day burdens, lend a listening ear, and reassure me that I was doing a good job during those long, tiring days.

The journey of motherhood is unique for every woman and every baby. Even if you feel confident after having previous children, each baby is different, and life circumstances change. You may have new challenges to overcome, and that's where a postpartum doula steps in.

Studies show that having a postpartum doula can significantly reduce the risk of postnatal depression. Furthermore, a doula can provide guidance on breastfeeding, help with household tasks, and offer support when your partner returns to work or when family and friends have their own busy schedules.

While the idea of hiring a postpartum doula may seem expensive at first, consider it an investment in your well-being and the health of your family. The benefits far outweigh the cost, and it's essential to remember that you deserve the support and care during this transformative time.

So, why isn't this service more common? Why haven't you heard of it before? These are questions I asked myself as well. As a mother, I believe that all new mothers, whether they have family nearby or not, should have access to this invaluable support system. It's time we spread the word about the importance of postpartum doulas, because, in the end, what you need is not just help, but kindness, understanding, and unwavering support on your unique journey into motherhood.

08.08.23