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Hello Beautiful Mamas-to-Be,
As you embark on the incredible journey of pregnancy, labour, and birth, one invaluable tool you can carry with you is the power of your breath.
I'm here to guide you through some nurturing breathing techniques that can offer not only relaxation but also strength and focus during labour.
1. Protective Breath:
This gentle breath helps you to establish some invisible boundaries so that you and your baby feel protected. It is especially helpful in moments when you feel anxious or overwhelmed during your pregnancy. My Top Tips for using this breath:
⭐️ Visualise the shape of a giant egg, almost like a protective barrier or shell around you and your baby ⭐️ Visualise a golden light, defining the routine of your oval/egg to almost set the boundaries ⭐️ Let your mind follow the breath round, moving comfortably with full awareness
2. Golden Thread Breath:
This is a great technique to promote acceptance and allow the body to fall into deep rest. Simply choose any position of your choice( sitting down or lying) and focus on creating a sense of letting go of anything heavy that no longer serves you well.
Allow your body to soften and relax with each exhale. The longer one exhales, the more opportunity arises to create space and quieten the mind, as the parasympathetic nervous system takes full effect. This is great to use in the first stage of labour as it is a powerful antidote for tension or pain.
My Top Tips for using this breath:
⭐️ Remember that, with practice, the exhales flow effortlessly, comfortably, and very soothingly ⭐️ I recommend that you use affirmations and embody the words ⭐️ Widen the gap between your lips if you are struggling to exhale comfortably ⭐️ The longer you exhale, the more influential the technique becomes
3. Cycle of Breath:
This lovely technique helps to create clarity and deeper awareness. It's a wonderfully supportive coping strategy that helps to draw back your focus on what you can control - your breathing. The little pauses between the inhales and exhales help cultivate moments of deep calm and profound inner connection.
My Top Tips for using this breath:
⭐️ Do not hold your breath between the shifts, just take a little pause...tiny delicate moments of recognition ⭐️ Allow the whole sequence to flow naturally, it's almost like dancing from one step to the next, simply effortless
4. Bee Breath:
This breath promotes an instant state of tranquility, calmness, and inner peace. It is great to practice before a relaxing yoga flow or in the evening after a long day.
The " humming" sounds create vibrations that travel through the amniotic waters to deliver your baby a beautiful soothing sonic massage and promote a deeper bonding between mother and baby. It promotes the feeling of happiness, contentment, and well-being. Helping to quieten the mind and also reduce high blood pressure.
My Top Tips for using this breath:
⭐️ Let the breath flow naturally, never strain or force the breath ⭐️ If you feel your natural breath is being compromised, sip some water and clear the throat with a Lions Breath technique before starting again ⭐️ Build up the time of your practice ⭐️ Be sure to empty out the lungs fully with each exhale
Remember, these breathing techniques are not only beneficial during labour but can be incorporated into your daily routine to enhance relaxation and mindfulness. As a pregnancy yoga teacher and doula, I encourage you to explore these practices, finding the ones that resonate with you.
In the sacred space of labour, your breath becomes a rhythmic dance, a source of strength, and a pathway to calm. Embrace the power within you, trusting in the natural flow of your breath as you journey toward the miracle of birth.
Wishing you peaceful breaths and a radiant journey,
How can I Help You?
If you feel that you require additional support to prepare for your baby's birth, I can create a bespoke doula package to include a full antenatal & hypnobirthing course, private yoga sessions and of course, I can be by your side when you birth your baby, ensuring you feel comfortable, prepared and at ease.
I’m going to be offering a 2 day group Hypnobirthing course on 27th January & 3rd February 2024 which offers so much information for birthing partners as much as our pregnant ladies. Please click below for more info or email me at randa@breatheyogalondon.co.uk.
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