About Sage Nest
I’m Joanna, a mother of two and the founder of Sage Nest—a boutique wellness practice based in Newcastle, NSW. My work focuses on supporting women through the transformative stages of pregnancy, birth preparation, and postpartum recovery with care that is both holistic and deeply nurturing.
I’ve been in clinical practice since 2004 and bring together a unique blend of therapies to support the health and wellbeing of mothers and their families. My approach is integrative and evidence-informed, combining Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Naturopathy, Massage Therapy, Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, and the Body Ready Method® to offer well-rounded care tailored to each individual.
At the Sage Nest, I provide support that spans the entire motherhood journey—from managing early pregnancy symptoms and preparing for an empowered birth, to gentle, restorative care in the fourth trimester and beyond. Each session is personalised to address not just the physical, but also the emotional and energetic shifts that come with matrescence.
Birth preparation is a particular focus of my work. I help women feel physically aligned, emotionally grounded, and mentally ready for labour and birth. My sessions may include acupuncture, bodywork, breath techniques, acupressure, body alignment and partner-inclusive education to build confidence and reduce fear. Whether you’re planning your first birth or looking for support after a previous experience, I create a space where you feel informed, prepared, and supported.
For new mothers needing extra support, I also offer postpartum home visits across the Newcastle region. These sessions bring hands-on care, comfort, and therapeutic treatments to your doorstep during a time when leaving the house can feel overwhelming. It’s a beautiful way to receive nurturing support in your own familiar space while you rest and recover.
I love helping women feel more confident in themselves and their mothering. It’s a privilege to witness mothers reach their goals, feel more at ease, and reconnect with themselves during this powerful life transition. It’s an honour to support that process.
Areas of expertise
- AHPRA Qualified Acupuncturist
- Remedial Massage Therapist – Advanced training in Pregnancy & Postpartum Massage
- Naturopath
- Birth & Postpartum Doula
- Body Ready Method™ Practitioner
Company values
Diversity & Inclusion
Sustainability
Women Owned
Learn about the support you didn't know you needed.
We have cherry picked the most useful resources for your fourth trimester so that you don't have to waste precious hours searching.
Article - Louise Barton + Elisha Wildblood
Do I Need a Postpartum Doula? Here’s What They Really Do
"Do I Really Need This?" It’s a question so many new mums ask, often in the quiet chaos of the fourth trimester. “Do I actually need a postpartum doula? Isn’t that a bit... extra?” When your body is sore, your hormones are surging, and you’re running on fragments of sleep, it’s not about luxury, it’s about being held while you hold your baby. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, touched out, or just bone-tired, this blog is your starting point. Let’s demystify the role of a postpartum doula and help you decide if they’re the kind of support you’re craving.
Article - Louise Barton + Elisha Wildblood (Not Another Onesie)
End-of-Year Reflection Guide for Mums (Free Journal Prompts + Playlist)
The end of the year can feel like a whirlwind, especially for pregnant and postpartum mothers. While the world speeds up with celebrations, to-do lists, family dynamics, and pressure to “make it magical,” many mums quietly feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or emotionally pulled in a dozen directions. If this resonates, you’re not alone. This gentle guide is here to help you slow down, take a breath, and soften into a kinder ending. A moment to honour the year you lived, the glimmers that kept you going, and the version of you that is emerging.
Watch - Elisha Wildblood and Louise Barton (Not Another Onesie)
What is the perfect mother myth and why does it exist?
The 'perfect mother' myth: What is it and why does it exist?
Article - Louise Barton & Elisha Wildblood (Not Another Onesie)
Why Motherhood Feels So Hard
Dear Mama, We see you. We see the way you pour yourself into motherhood, the way you carry the weight of the world while still showing up with love and strength, even when you feel like a shadow of yourself. As a society, we sit here adding to the pressure, adding to the load and, let's be brutally honest - failing you miserably every step of the way. We owe you an apology.