The Breathing Technique She Learned In Yoga Helped Rachel During Her Birth Center Water Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

After drinking the castor oil protocol, I knew I was really in labor when I felt the lightning-type sensation that I felt during my other labors, signifying my cervix was opening.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Fear (and lack of control) of how long my labor would be.

What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

Pray and ask God to shoulder my fears and anxiety for me, and to be near me during each contraction.

What surprised you about your birth?

It was only 8 hours, start to finish! I was preparing mentally for another 24-hour labor. Also, baby came out so easily this time!

I was in SHOCK that she was even out so soon! I thanked her for coming out so quickly and told her she did a very good job of being born. :)

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The breathing technique I learned in yoga and claiming, “Jesus and the God of the universe will never leave me nor forsake me” and “The power that raised Jesus from the dead, the Holy Spirit, now lives in me” during every contraction brought immediate physical comfort.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Floating on my side in the tub. After I pushed her head out, though, I turned more to a seated position in the tub to deliver the rest of her body.

How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

I was in SHOCK that she was even out so soon! I thanked her for coming out so quickly and told her she did a very good job of being born. :)

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

Invite the God of the universe into your birth space and He will comfort you! And be sure your birth team is made up of people you trust and love and feel 100% comfortable with.