Your breath is an anchor that can help you stay connected to your body. Deep, conscious breathing can calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and bring you into the present moment. As your pregnancy progresses, the diaphragm changes shape, as everything is more crowded. Breathing may feel more difficult, and conscious breathing may help.  When we bring our attention to our breath, it naturally becomes deeper. It is never too early, or too late, to begin learning breath awareness.  This will become a tool for all of life’s challenging moments.

Take a few minutes each day to practice mindful breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand as you fill your lungs with air. Exhale slowly and fully, feeling your body release tension with each breath. As you do this, notice how your body responds. Does your breath feel restricted in certain positions? Are there times when deep breathing feels particularly soothing? By focusing on your breath, you can cultivate a sense of calm and connection that supports both you and your baby. Having a practice like breath awareness is one of the most practical ways you can prepare for birth.  Spending time developing this practice makes it that much easier to use as a pain coping tool in labor.