Today we’d like to introduce you to Vaishnavi Tallury.
Hi Vaishnavi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Vaishnavi “Vaishi” Tallury, MA, OTR/L is a licensed Occupational Therapist with 15 years of experience in pediatric, school-based OT, and a certified yoga instructor. While on maternity leave with her second child during the summer of 2022, she unexpectedly found herself feeling lost, stuck, tired, and like she just needed to “OT-herself.” Having knowledge and skills in rehabilitation, she knew what she needed to do, but just didn’t have the capacity to do those things. This struck her with the question how can we better prepare women for the transformation into motherhood? In speaking with other mom friends, she found she was not alone in this struggle and two common themes emerged: 1.) It
takes a village and 2.) We were prepared for the challenges of bringing home a newborn, but not adequately prepared to take care of ourselves in this new role of “mother.”
Vaishi immediately knew this was her calling and that she would utilize her experiences as a yoga instructor, occupational therapist, and most importantly mother, to help prepare expectant mothers for Matrescence. The perinatal period begins during pregnancy and continues up to two years after giving birth. Through the lens of occupational therapy, Vaishi works to support mother and baby as a holistic unit to promote connectedness and well-being.
Vaishi lives in Washington, DC with her husband, two daughters, and 13-year-old dog who still acts like a puppy. She is excited to serve mothers and babies during this critical perinatal period.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Launching a business, especially one that is so personal to me, is one of the biggest challenges I’ve undertaken. I launched my business when my kids were 5 and 1, and while working a full-time job. The process of developing my services and connecting with expectant and new moms has been so rewarding, but forced me to confront my own fears and insecurities in a way I was not prepared for. The first year I launched my business, I got quickly burnt out from not prioritizing my own needs (such as sleep!) and forced me to take a step back. Through therapy and coaching, I have struck a better balance and feel confident moving forward.
As you know, we’re big fans of Seven Mothers Perinatal OT, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
First and foremost, I am a mom. I experienced PTSD from the traumatic birth of my first child and subsequently experienced perinatal anxiety and depression during my second pregnancy. I understand how scary and challenging the perinatal period can be, even when everything appears to be progressing “according to plan.” As an occupational therapist and perinatal mental health specialist, I am here to listen to my client’s hopes and dreams, fears and anxieties, and to hold space for the full range of the perinatal experience. I have a unique background as a yoga instructor and pediatric occupational therapist, and bring a different set of skills from other maternal healthcare providers, such as OBGYNs, midwives, doulas, or traditional therapists.
I offer group workshops as well as individual conceirge services, virtually or within the comfort of your home. I support the birthing parent, as well as support partners, to prepare for Matrescence (the transition to motherhood). We assess the home environment to ensure safe ergonomics and positioning, offer strategies to help you adjust to your new routines and roles within the family, as well as provide practical tips for navigating sleep, meals, visitors, and juggling additional demands. In addition, I provide education on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)- what signs to look for and how to get help. In the postpartum period, I offer all the same services, but include baby into the session!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Believe in yourself! Ask lots of questions and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You may face roadblocks or setbacks, but don’t allow those to stray you from your mission!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sevenmothersot.com
- Instagram: @sevenmothersot
- Facebook: @sevenmothersot
