In this episode of Midwife Crisis, Kelli Zakharoff is joined by trauma-informed yoga instructor Ileana for a grounding and insightful chat about the healing potential of yin yoga—especially for midwives and healthcare workers carrying the emotional weight of their work.
Ileana shares her own path into yoga, what makes yin so uniquely powerful, and why slowing down is often the first step to processing grief, burnout, and trauma. Together, they explore the importance of presence, emotional release, and creating support systems that hold space for the carers as much as the cared-for.
This episode is a gentle, practical invitation to reconnect with your body, your breath, and your boundaries—especially if you’ve been pouring from an empty cup.

(04:26) Understanding Yin Yoga

(10:03) The Window of Tolerance and Trauma

(19:16) Self-Care Practices for Healthcare Workers

(22:01) Finding Joy in Small Moments

(23:16) The Power of Presence

(24:59) Advice for Healthcare Workers

(25:22) Understanding Hope Theory

(27:48) The Importance of Forgiveness

(31:19) Investing in Support Systems

(32:45) Healing Through Joy and Creativity


For more information and links to Iliana's work, check out these links:

Website: www.ilianacontos.com

'Take A Break' Guided Meditation with Iliana Contos

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Click here to learn more about Yin Yoga and other therapies offered by Iliana.
Follow Iliana on Instagram.

Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:

https://www.collectivebeing.org/

https://blueknot.org.au/

https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/

https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explained

https://www.nmsupport.org.au

https://www.anmf.org.au/

https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-process

https://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-trauma

https://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/

Griefline 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Australia

Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14

Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife

Instagram - @jess.themidwife

To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.au

Follow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak