For Birth Partners
The name sounds strange….
Yes – despite how ‘alternative’ the name might sound to you right now, Hypnobirthing is actually based in a lot of science.
Helen will also present the program to you in a very down-to-earth manner, that most birthing partners male or female, will positively respond to.
If I had a dollar for everytime a father-to-be came up to me and said “ wow this course was so much more valuable than I thought it would be”, I’d be rich!
Hey and it can’t be that strange and weird – even Prince Harry jumped on board, involved in the program for the birth of Archie in 2019. See just one of the many articles about his and Meghan’s birthing plan here.
Other celebs to have used and benefited from Hypnobirthing include Prince William with all three of their babies’ births. England’s football captain Harry Kane, Brad Pitt, Cash Warren (Jessica Alba’s husband) have all used and enjoyed the program.
There’s also been some well known/ celeb Kiwi dads enjoy the program with me too – but I’m going to let them keep their anonymity : )
Testimonials
“We both loved our HypnoBirthing course and have really missed it since it’s ended. We found the course gave us a toolkit to not only prepare for the birth but to also cope with the general stress of big life changes. The strategies we developed during HypnoBirthing will continue to be applied even after the birth of our child. It really is a toolkit for life!”
Sarah and Gareth
“… for the partners — do not underestimate your value, I know I could not have done it without Warren and our bond has been strengthened by such a powerful and emotional shared experience. He is my rock and already the best father imaginable.”
Jess
Preparing mind and body for success
The techniques we teach are proven strategies and tools of breathing, relaxation and visualisation. They all work perfectly to support the physiology of the mother’s birthing body.
We are preparing the mind and body for success in the same way that sports professionals would prepare for their big event.
While many Dads-to-be might be literally “dragged” along for their first session, they are usually the biggest advocates afterwards, and often provide many referals to the course.
What do I need to do?
The best thing a birthing mother needs is for her partner to be a calm, supportive assistant. By learning specialised skills, simple breathing, and specific techniques you’re going to become an integral asset to the birthing team. This feels so much better than sitting on the sidelines, hoping for the best. Your partner will be very grateful too.
You might be interested to read this article, written by a Dad supporting his partner through the journey. Or this one here from Rick who was a skeptic and is now a complete advocate.
Can I use this stuff for myself?
Remember that the skills learnt in the course can be applied to many areas in life – so it might be that you find yourself using your “relaxation skills” in the office, work place, sports field, or in times of conflict. And of course, there will be plenty of time with a newborn, toddler, child (and one day a teenager) to use these techniques to cope with the challenges of parenting.
If you’re still sceptical, that is fine. It’s normal. Helen suggests you to come along with an open mind and you might be very pleasantly surprised.
Why is Relaxation Important?
The body and mind work at their optimum when relaxed and free of tension.
When your partner is birthing your baby using Hypnobirthing techniques, what she will experience is similar to the daydreaming or focusing that occurs when you are engrossed in a book or starting at a fire. She will be conversant and in good spirits – totally relaxed, but fully in control. She will be aware of her body’s contractions, but will be able to determine the extent to which she feels the surge. Both of you will experience your birthing in an atmosphere of calm and relaxation, without the fear and tension that cause the mother pain. Her body’s natural anaesthesia (endorphins) will replace the stress hormones that cause pain.
When it is time for your baby to be born, your partner will be fully awake and involved.
