Research, Literature, and Education

Cecily Miller has a Master of Arts degree in Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology, and is completing her doctorate in the same field. Her thesis and dissertation posit that intentional use of sound applied during pregnancy promotes mothers’ emotional regulation and thereby supports optimal fetal development conditions. Cecily has reviewed and analyzed a significant amount of literature in this area and continues to do so. Such areas include, affect regulation, emotional regulation, attachment theory, birth and bonding, birth and trauma, psychobiology, interpersonal neurology and sound (speech, vocals, tones, chants, mantra, music) embryology, Tibetan and Indian texts, African writings, and prenatal and perinatal psychology.

Admittedly, it does not take a degree to put together the common sense that prosody of speech, toning, and some music uplift and sooth us as people. It seems only natural to make good use of this awareness and accessible, affordable tool while pregnant. Many women report wonderful stories. Cecily’s review and analysis speaks to the fact that intentional sound does not just make pregnant women feel better temporarily, as something like chocolate might. Not to take away from the of power of chocolate, but the use of sound actually affects the fetus’ womb’s environment, by way of the mother and can enhance fetal brain development.

Making available Cecily’s thesis through Baby Welcoming is under consideration. If you are interested please let us know. Cecily receives great delight in facilitating Baby Welcoming™ ceremonies, and creating unique recordings for babies and their mothers around the world. This is a most blessed convergence of the sound wisdom, education, and empathic gifts given to Cecily.