Harnessing the Power of the Mind in Childbirth can be a game changer…

The power of your mind and its impact during birth is undeniably linked. The way you feel about birth and your perceptions of birth can be a game changer in the birthing space.

The mind is a powerful tool in childbirth as is the power of positive affirmations As one of our Calmbirth couples, Sophie discovered when birthing her baby girl Naia Rose. She said,

“Labour was such a mental game for me – visualisation was my best friend, as was the birthing ball, essential oils and telling myself lots of affirmations of how my body was built for this. I would tell myself that “this is nothing”, “it’s going to become much harder” and before you know it, I was 10cm dilated. Understanding what my body was doing, what it needed and why I think was the key to such a successful labour.”

Her mindset in birth totally transformed her birthing experience to being a positive one and believing in her body, baby and partner that she could do this! 

Our minds possess an incredible ability to influence our bodies. By focusing on positive thoughts and affirmations, like Sophie did, expectant parents can tap into this innate power, guiding themselves through the journey of childbirth with strength, calmness, self belief and resilience.

Affirmations are simple yet profound statements that reflect the reality one wishes to create. They serve as a guiding light, steering thoughts, and emotions toward a positive outcome. Embracing positive affirmations during pregnancy, labour and birth helps cultivate a mindset of readiness and empowerment. It allows expectant parents to shift their focus from fear and uncertainty to trust and belief in their body’s natural ability to bring forth new life.

Here are a few powerful Calmbirth affirmations that can be embraced in your birth journey.

1. I trust in my body and surrender to its strength.
2. The stronger and longer my contractions, the closer I get to holding my baby.
3. There is no failure in birth just different birth journeys.
4. Whenever your mind becomes scattered, use your breath to take hold of your mind again.
5. Never trust your fears, they don’t know your strength.
6. Birth isn’t something we suffer, but something we actively do and exult in.

Repetition and belief in these affirmations can create a profound impact. They serve as a constant reminder of the body’s innate capabilities and the strength that lies within. When practiced regularly, they become a source of comfort and reassurance during the intensity of labour.

Moreover, incorporating these affirmations into birthing plans can foster a positive environment for both the birthing person and their partner. They can serve as a bonding experience, guiding them to support each other through the journey, fostering a deeper connection. Stick them on your walls. toilet door,, the mirror, hang them above or alongside your birthing pool or in the birthing suite at the hospital. 

It’s important to acknowledge that while affirmations can be powerful tools, each birth experience is unique. The key is not just in the words themselves, but in the mindset, they cultivate—the belief in oneself and the ability to adapt to whatever unfolds during labour and birth. because remember – There is no failure in birth just different birth journeys.