The power of Pregnancy Relaxation - especially if you're anxious about birth

Pregnancy is a unique and special journey, whether for the first time, second, third - or more. It's a time full of transformation, change and growth, but its also natural to have some apprehension of the unknown ahead. Of course, you just want to meet your new baby, but the lead up to their arrival can bring mixed feelings of excitement and sometimes anxiety (especially if it's your first pregnancy, or you've had a difficult previous experience).

Pregnancy relaxation sessions are a wonderful tool for calming, reassuring and offering time out where you can find solace amidst the juggle of balancing pregnancy (and likely still working) as well as preparing for life to change hugely. These sessions offer a safe space each week to unwind, connect with your changing body and growing baby, and indulge in much-needed self-care - which can be hard to factor in to our busy lives.

Pregnancy relaxation offers a multitude of benefits, not just physical comfort and relaxation. You will learn how to release tension and address any anxieties about labour and birth in a supportive environment. Sessions can help you prepare for a positive birth experience as well as giving you additional opportunities to nurture the very special bond between yourself and your baby. This also encourages the production of those all important hormones Oxytocin, Endorphins and Prolactin. Please see my blog on the importance of hormones here for more details. This deepened connection can have a positive impact on your baby's development and well-being, as well as your own emotional and mental health. 

Studies have shown that relaxation during pregnancy tends to be associated with positive effects both on foetal behaviour and on obstetric and neonatal outcomes. (Fink, Nadine S. PhD; Urech, Corinne PhD; Cavelti, Marialuisa MSc; Alder, Judith PhD. Relaxation During Pregnancy: What Are the Benefits for Mother, Fetus, and the Newborn? A Systematic Review of the Literature. The Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing 26(4):p 296-306, October/December 2012. | DOI: 10.1097/JPN.0b013e31823f565b)

At Everything Birth Baby Sleep, my Pregnancy Relaxation sessions are thoughtfully put together and tailored to your needs. From gentle breathing techniques to short discussions on birth planning and preparation, each session is designed to empower you on your journey towards the birth you hope for. Beautiful guided meditations, tailored specifically for pregnancy, finish the sessions to leave you feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, positive, and deeply connected to your baby.

As a practitioner who has been working with families and babies for over 25 years, and still supporting families with their pre and postnatal journeys, including newborn care, pregnancy support, hypnobirthing and sleep coaching, I encourage embracing the tranquillity of these classes to give you the confidence to prepare for a positive birth experience and give yourself some well needed time out once a week.

I currently offer 1:1 Pregnancy Relaxation sessions either in your own home, or in a beautiful, tranquil log cabin (pictured above) in Terriers, High Wycombe at a mutually convenient time. Please get in touch for more information.

Sending love and relaxation,

Emily x