Birth affirmations

via Laur of the Lion

I love birth affirmations.  I'm currently teaching my first eight-week childbirth education series at BABS.  In Week 4, we hit the hard stuff. We discuss labor and birth complications, interventions, including Cesarean sections, and decision making.  It's a lot of information to take in.  On top of that, so much growth and change is occurring--physically, mentally, and emotionally, to both mom and her partner.

 It can be bittersweet.  Physically, mom may be eager to meet her baby.  But at the same time, she may feel saddened by the thought that, after birth, she and baby will no longer be physically connected.  Two separate entities.  Not only is this process new for moms, but it's new territory for partners, too.  It's a hard concept to grasp when you've never done it before.  Exciting, scary, overwhelming, and thought-provoking.  A range of emotions, really.   

We need to raise awareness.  To teach both women and men that our bodies are strong and capable.  The mind-body connection is a powerful thing, and when women find what works for them in labor:  they shine.  When partners feel confident in supporting mom in labor, they bring a sense of calm, reassurance, and love that resonates throughout the birthing atmosphere.  I hope these birth affirmations help women and their partners feel connected, mindful, and secure in their experience.  Here are some of my favorites:

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• "My pregnant body is beautiful.  I am a powerful birthing Goddess."
• "My body knows how to have this baby just as my body knew how to grow this baby."
• "The power and intensity of my contractions cannot be stronger than me, because it is me."
• "I accept this is the birthing process, and that it will unfold as it is meant to for me and my baby."
• "I have the energy and stamina to birth my baby."
• "It is safe to let go and surrender.  I surrender my birthing over to my baby and my body."
• "I am surrounded by support and love."
• "My pelvis releases and opens as have those of countless women before me."
• "Our baby is healthy and strong."
• "Childbirth is a normal, healthy event.  Birth is a safe and wonderful experience."
• "Our baby is in the perfect position for birth."
• "I am an important part of the birth team."
• "Our baby knows how and when to be born.  Our baby knows his/her true birthday."
• "I will support her in her hardest moments."
• "I will be a great parent."
• "We will make the right decisions for our baby."
• "I believe in the family we're creating."
• "I will trust my instincts."

Sending you light and love on your birthing journey!
~Lindsey