Breathe, Relax & Push!

We have often heard the saying, ‘No pain, no gain’. And, it is no longer just to motivate you to exercise. Undoubtedly, millions of women have accepted the inevitable of pain during the birthing process and have gotten used to it. Fortunately, with the right technique and method, you could do-away with the pain and have a joyous experience of bringing your bundle of joy into the world. M&B tells you everything you need to know about this technique—HypnoBirthing

- Sania Dhirwani

Who doesn’t want to be one of those cool mums with bragging rights to, “I’ve had a water birth” or the coveted “I wasn’t in labour too long”. And while it’s every woman’s pererogoative to make sure they have a safe and healthy, albeit quick delivery, hopping on the next fad, particularly when it’s got to do with bring precious life into this world, we think it’s best to know exactly what you’re getting into. While HypnoBirthing is surely safe, we’re here to break it down for you.

So what is HypnoBirthing?

HypnoBirthing, or the Mongan Method, was created by Marie Mongan in the 80s. The method teaches you that in the absence of fear and tension, severe pain does not have to be an accompaniment of labour. Jayapali Shetty, a hypnofertility consultant at The HypnoBirthing Institute, USA, says, “It is a holistic childbirth education programme that includes special breathing techniques, deep relaxation, visualisation, meditative practice, nutrition and body toning. These techniques empower women to be confident, calm and makes them feel safe during the birthing process.” She further adds, “This technique brings out the innate strength and lets you harness your energy during the process, beautifully culminating into a healthy newborn in mind, body and spirit. HypnoBirthing teaches women to do what their bodies already know how to do, by trusting their birthing instincts.”

Shivani Sharma, a HypnoBirthing practitioner, says, “When the mind is free of fear and the mother feels safe and supported, it functions at its optimal level which is right for both mother and baby. Emphasis is placed on pregnancy and childbirth, as well as on pre-birth parenting and the consciousness of the pre-born baby. As a birthing method, it’s as new as tomorrow and as old as ancient times.”