Maura Belcher

Founder of In BLOOM Wellbeing:

Your journey begins in Northern California — a place known for its holistic and free-spirited lifestyle. How did your upbringing shape the way you see wellbeing today?

Northern California is a quirky place, and has a lingering effect of the 60s. Health, wellness, and a more alternative outlook on life were part of the culture. People are incredibly open-minded when it comes to holistic health and spirituality. I value that laid-back, experimental approach to life as it gave me permission to be curious and to explore different ways of caring for the body and mind. 

You originally trained as a chef in New York City. What drew you to food, and how has that passion evolved over time?

I started cooking as a teenager, inspired by TV chefs like Ina Garten. In the kitchen I could be creative and it gave me a sense of purpose in a time I needed it. I’d spend hours reading recipes and experimenting with ingredients, fascinated and in love with the process. After culinary school in New York, I moved to London at 21 and worked in different corners of the food industry. Over time, my focus evolved and I became more drawn to the relationship between food and the body, especially the emotional and physical healing it can offer. Cooking became a way to nourish and that intention completely reshaped my work.

You’ve spoken about the importance of ‘mothering the mother.’ What does that mean to you?

If you look at traditional communities, caring for new mothers is at the very heart of the family. When the mother is cared for, the baby thrives. It’s such a simple but powerful truth. Mothering the mother is really about honouring that transition, ensuring she’s held, nourished, and supported through rest, food, and emotional care. It’s a gentle shift in perspective that the foundation of family health begins with her.

What inspired you to take the leap and become a doula & how does your background as a chef influence the way you work as a doula today?

 My transition to motherhood was deeply transformative but also depleting, and through navigating that rough terrain I found the clarity and empathy I bring to my work now. The decision to move into birth work and women’s health felt less like a decision and more like a destination I was meant to reach. As cheesy as that sounds. I am meant to be in this space supporting women during the most tender season of life.  My background as a chef ended up weaving beautifully into this as food is such an intimate form of care. It’s a medicine in its own right. Every dish I make is designed to nourish both the body and the nervous system, because healing in the postpartum period is as emotional as it is physical.

When you’re not supporting women and families, how do you like to spend your time?

Life in London is full, so I really value downtime — especially with my children. We live in a green part of East London, so we spend a lot of time outdoors, walking to get coffee or wandering through the flats. I’ve also recently started Reformer Pilates, which feels amazing to build strength. This season of life is very much about leaning into quiet moments wherever I can find them to stay grounded. 

What are your favourite foods to cook with and recipes for the fourth trimester? 

The postpartum period is all about foods that are warm, cooked, and easy on the digestion. Think cosy and rustic comfort food. I love making slow-cooked stews, bone broths, velvety soups, and gently spiced porridges. My cooking now is rooted in Ayurvedic principles, so everything I prepare is intentional and focused on rebuilding strength, balancing digestion, and calming the nervous system. One of my go-to dishes is Chai Rice Pudding which is lovely for anytime you are healing (and menstruating). White basmati is ideal as it’s easier to digest and it’s layered with warming spices. It’s a hug in a bowl. 

How has motherhood changed the way you lead and work, running your own business? 

I once heard the phrase, “Motherhood is meant to change you,” and that has been completely true for me. It’s brought a deep sense of self-acceptance and clarity in how I want to show up in the world. My business has grown in a very feminine way…intuitively, collaboratively, and slowly. I love working alongside other women building meaningful, heart-led businesses. It’s a continual journey of learning to balance purpose with ambition while staying grounded in motherhood.