Visualization

Visualization plays an important part in childbirth preparation because of the mind-body connection. Every action is preceded by a thought. If a pregnant woman is afraid of birth, this will have an adverse effect on the birthing process. However, if she visualizes herself giving birth with ease and if she can relax and release any tension in her body she is more likely to have a calmer and easier birth.

A simple visualization combined with breath awareness

The following visualization is used in my childbirth preparation classes. This powerful imagery will help you prefer for the beginning stages of labour when the cervix is thinning and opening and also for the crowning stage. You can use the imagery during labour itself when the intensity of birth increases, just picture the flower in your mind and see it gently opening every time you breathe out.

Make yourself comfortable and close your eyes

Bring your awareness to the breath. Breathe in on a count of 4 and exhale to a count of 8. (Repeat a few times) Nice easy breath...

Each time you exhale, start relaxing and releasing tension in your body; starting from the toes and working your way up gently (ankles, legs, knees, hip, lower back, chest, shoulders, arms, fingers, neck, face and jaw)

Now you are ready to begin....

In your mind choose your favourite flower, any flower you like...

Inhale and as you exhale imagine the flower opening ever so softly

Each time you exhale, imagine another petal unfolding

Continue breathing follow your breath and with each exhale witness your flower opening a little more each time until it is fully opened.

Now stay there for a short while, see how beautiful it truly is.

When you are ready come back to the room and open your eyes.

Tip: Practise this visualization daily as you get closer to your estimated due date.