Colleen Hubbard – Guest Writer
HypnoBirthing® is as much a philosophy as it is a technique. This program was developed in 1989 by Marie Mongan, for the birth of her first grandchild. It is based on the belief that giving birth is not a medical event. She believed birth is meant to be a joyful and fulfilling act of nature. One of the first things we do in class is to “de-hypnotize” people of the fear-based idea that childbirth is a dangerous medical emergency and must be filled with pain. We discuss the role of fear and how it creates tension in the body and that this is what creates the pain many women experience.
When moms learn to relax deeply, they discover their body’s work perfectly. We teach the art of self-hypnosis, various relaxation techniques, visualization and the importance of deep slow breathing. If there is a health issue with the mom or baby and medical intervention is needed, these practices can still be used to help keep the mom confident and the birthing experience calm and comfortable. We also emphasize the importance of bonding with the unborn baby.
HypnoBirthing® babies start their lives outside of the womb feeling connected with their parents and safe in their new world. The fact that the mom’s body is designed for safe, calm and peaceful birth is celebrated. The birthing companion also has a significant role during pregnancy and birth. This leads to a heart-warming and fulfilling experience for everyone in the family.
I have been involved with HypnoBirthing® for ten years and I have never seen or heard of any down side related to it whatsoever! Moms often comment on how good they feel after birth and how their babies, born in an atmosphere of calm and peace, tend to eat and sleep better and to be generally very content.
Colleen Hubbard HBCE MSW RMT CCHT, Commitment to Healing, 847-491-1122 x 20 or cleen62@aol.com.