There are 5 key ways that you can learn to do hypnobirthing, which suits all learning styles and budgets ranging from hypnobirthing audio downloads to having a private course:-
1. LISTEN TO A HYPNOBIRTHING TRACK
As with any skill, the more you practise, the better you get. If you would like to benefit from hypnosis for birth then it is super important to regularly listen to a hypnobirthing track.
There is a wide range of tracks to suit different stages of pregnancy and different types of births including home births, vaginal births after a Caesarean, twins’ births and even preparing for a Caesarean birth.
You can listen to the tracks in your own time, in your own home and of course during the birth itself. One of the many bonuses of practising hypnosis throughout your pregnancy is that you take time out to actually slow down, relax and spend time focusing on your baby.
Many women have commented that listening to a birth preparation track is a great “excuse” or reason to take time out to relax, which they may not otherwise have done.
2. READ A HYPNOBIRTHING BOOK
There are many great books out there on hypnobirthing. This is an affordable and easy way to find out more about the techniques and to teach yourself. Plus it is something you can take with you and even into the birth.
3. SIGNING UP FOR AN ONLINE COURSE
A Hypnobirthing track will definitely help you practice the foundation skills of hypnobirthing – especially breathing, relaxation and visualisation and a book is a great way to learn “intellectually” about the tools.
However learning by seeing, hearing and practicing is known to be a far more effective way of retaining new information.
An online course is a great way to access this learning in a flexible way – also you will have 24/7 access to the course so you can refresh your memory even during labour itself.
Online courses include handouts and downloads to help you practice all the tools and techniques.
4. ATTEND A COURSE WITH A QUALIFIED HYPNOBIRTHING PRACTITIONER.
Attending a course with your own designated practitioner will give you access to her hands-on experience, guidance and one to one support.
She will also be able to demonstrate additional tools and techniques to help you and your birth partner during the birth; You will have the opportunity to ask questions and formulate your own plan, and to create your own bespoke affirmations and suggestions, which are tailored to you and your birth partner.
One of the biggest bonuses is the chance to meet like-minded couples and to have a support network, including your practitioner and the other couples on your course.
5. VISIT A QUALIFIED HYPNOTHERAPIST.
If you have any very specific concerns, fears or trauma from previous experiences, you may wish to see a qualified hypnotherapist for a one-to-one session. To find an appropriate therapist, call a few in your area and have a chat or a free consultation first.
The most important thing is that you feel confident and trusting of the therapist. It is of course particularly useful if the hypnotherapist has had the experience of working with birth-related hypnosis. The majority of women would not need to see a hypnotherapist for more than four sessions. Be wary of anyone who says you will need more than that to achieve a positive outcome.
