I know how it goes, you’re pregnant and you feel compelled to learn everything possible about what’s happening to you.
You download apps to track the size of your baby, you read books, attend antenatal classes, try a bit of pregnancy yoga, you name it – you’re on it. It’s understandable. You’re experiencing something new (and life changing!) , and you want to learn all you can about it. You stumble across Hypnobirthing, or perhaps a friend recommends it and you think – I think we should be doing that too (although you might not really be sure why), or you might be sceptical (which is totally understandable, there's a lot of misconceptions out there.)
Inevitably, parents arrive at my course not sure what to expect. Mums are keen to learn anything that might help them through the daunting prospect of bringing a baby into the world, and partners are often sat there somewhat begrudgingly, attending just to appease their pregnant partner (who wants to argue with a pregnant woman?!) I know it, I’ve been there with my sceptical husband and I’ve seen it as a teacher.
The term hypnobirthing is (in my opinion) an unfortunate one. It conjures up images of pocket watches and being hypnotised to do something embarrassing.
Many people come to hypnobirthing sceptical, thinking that I am somehow going to try to 'hypnotise' them in a manner which means they will not feel any pain in labour and their baby will somehow just magically float out into the world, surrounded by candles and incense.
Sure, you’ll give it a go, but you’re not convinced…
You’re very welcome to surround yourself with candles, fairy lights, essential oils and more, but it’s not what hypnobirthing is all about.
Hypnobirthing is an established and widely used set of powerful techniques designed to help you release your fears and give birth in the most positive and relaxed way possible.
Far from being a “bit hippy” Hypnobirthing is based on established medical knowledge; incorporating both the physiological and psychological sides of birth.
Breathing, visualisation and positive reinforcement are combined with vital knowledge about birth and your options and choices to empower you to trust your body. It’s about working with your body, not against it.
Hypnobirthing does not promise a 'perfect birth', but it can be instrumental in ensuring a positive one. There is no cookie cutter method for birth and every woman in the world will meet their baby in their own, unique way, but the techniques will prepare you to calmly and confidently navigate the twist and turns of any birthing scenario.
If you'd like to know more, just drop me a message (or, sign up to my next taster session - it's free!)