As well as the prenatal class options in our Resource List, we are happy to share this recording by TBC Midwifery placement student, Shazeal:
Meditation is a way for us to connect to ourselves and ground us in our surroundings. Birth naturally draws us inwards and we connect more deeply. Meditating can help us feel grounded, safe, and able to navigate the changes. This meditation is a mix of guided relaxation and positive affirmations. I speak in a mix of English and Nehiyawin (cree).
Listen before or during birth to help you move through the cycles of labour. Repeat the affirmations out loud or in your head. Breathing in for a count of 4, holding for 7, and exhaling for 7 will help calm your mind and body. Please enjoy!
Shazeal is of mixed black and indigenous ancestry. Originally from Bigstone cree nation in Northern Alberta. She is currently studying midwifery in Ontario and is passionate about birth work.
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From Midwifery student Maggie:
“I created this zine with the intention of sharing some useful somatic practices for folks to calm their nervous systems in times of stress. This was made with midwifery students, midwives, and birth attendants(partners, doulas, family members and BCAs) in mind. Knowing how to regulate one’s own nervous system in times of stress is an extremely important skill, especially in the birth space. I am so happy to share some of the brilliant teachers I am learning from. Please check them out!
I hope you enjoy dipping your toes into these practices, teachings and teachers!”