Like so many women, I entered motherhood excited for what I would gain — and while I wasn’t prepared for how much it would demand of me, I’ve found purpose, resilience, and my authentic self along the way. But it didn’t need to be as hard as it was, and that’s why I do this work.
When I was first pregnant in 2020, I developed sciatica and SPD (pelvic girdle pain) so severe I could barely walk. What struck me was that no health professional had educated me on these conditions, and I was expected to simply endure. It was the first time I realised just how much the healthcare system is letting mothers down.
After having my son, I felt like a shell of my former self. I was constantly worrying, exhausted, and foggy, with no energy or enthusiasm for life. I couldn’t escape my To Do list and felt resentful that the responsibilities of parenting fell disproportionately on me. I had gained a beautiful baby but had lost my independence, identity, and confidence.
I couldn’t understand how I could love my family so deeply, yet feel so unhappy in motherhood. I was stuck in fight-or-flight, constantly striving to be (or at least appear to be) the “perfect mother.” I didn’t know how to explain how I was feeling and when no one in my life could give me answers, I turned to research.
What I discovered changed everything. I found language and validation for what I was experiencing: postpartum anxiety, postnatal depletion, nervous system dysregulation, the crushing weight of the mental load, and the cultural trap of the perfect mother myth. For the first time, I understood I wasn’t broken — I was living inside systems that fail mothers.
My experiences led me to train in prenatal and postnatal yoga as a therapeutic solution for pregnancy conditions and postpartum rebuilding, and to become certified in Motherhood Studies to understand the wider social forces that impact mothers.
My approach to maternal well-being involves a combination of self-responsibility to enact change and understanding and reshaping the social structures impacting mothers.
I found my purpose: to improve mental health outcomes for new mothers. Because when mothers are happy, healthy, supported, and empowered, they don’t just survive motherhood — they thrive. And a world with thriving mothers is a better world for everyone.
QUALIFICATIONS
Mental health is both influenced by and influences every part of a mother’s life, with ramifications extending to children and families for generations.
Centering mothers’ needs and experiences, because equity isn’t possible until mothers are supported and valued.
Most healthcare services step in after a mother is already unwell. My work is different: it’s preventative, evidence-based, and holistic. I support mothers at the root causes of mental distress — body, mind, and social systems.
Research shows yoga reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, peer support lowers the risk of postnatal depression, and education empowers mothers to create change. Together, these approaches create measurable improvements in maternal mental health.
I blend modern evidence with ancient wisdom to help women navigate motherhood. Because it’s not just mothers who need to do the work, it’s the systems around us — at home and in society.
Empowering women with the language and tools to understand their reality and take informed action.
Building an authentic relationship with self and creating supportive spaces where mothers end isolation together.
Using the tools of yoga and Ayurveda for movement, healing, relaxation, and resilience.
Understanding the social forces that shape motherhood so we can advocate for ourselves and one another.
I partner with like-minded businesses who support mothers. From co-creating programs and delivering workshops to guest speaking or integrating maternal well-being into your services, I bring expertise in yoga, sociology, matrescence, and maternal mental health — paired with lived experience.
Get in touch at hello@hayleytillard.com.
I facilitate Pregnancy Yoga and Motherhood Education classes through Modern Mamas.
Running 40 classes per year, I research and write the class content and workbooks, guide expecting mothers through prenatal yoga, meditation, breath work, and facilitate group discussions.
“Hayley is an incredible instructor who brings so much warmth, knowledge and support to our Pregnancy Yoga Program. Her gentle approach and deep understanding of prenatal movement help mums-to-be feel confident, connected and empowered throughout their pregnancy. The way she creates a calm and welcoming space is truly special. We’re very grateful to have Hayley as part of the Modern Mamas family.”
Carene Carroll, Founder and CEO Modern Mamas
As the resident yoga coach at Lift HQ, Sandgate, group classes focus on training recovery, gentle strength and mobility work, and relaxation for women and men of all ages and abilities.
“Incorporating yoga classes is a key part of what makes Lift HQ so special. Hayley brings a perfect balance of strength, mobility & mindfulness that helps everyone recover, reset & feel more connected to their bodies. Her sessions complement our general classes while creating a real sense of calm & focus for our members & community. Hayley adds an incredible amount of value to Lift HQ which we are so appreciative of.”
Meg Zivkovic, Owner Lift HQ.
We acknowledge the Turrbal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work in Sandgate, Queensland. We honour their wisdom in nurturing families, supporting mothers, and raising children on this land for generations. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging and recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture, particularly in the sacred role of mothering and community care.
Hayley Tillard Yoga Mother © 2025
Website Design By
