Fundamentals of Relaxation Part 2

In this 8 part series , we are going to explore the fundamentals of relaxation, how each type works, the benefits and a little history.  We humans do not relax enough – we believe that sleeping or watching television is relaxation….nothing could be farther from the truth.  And it is so important to both mother and baby during pregnancy!

Touch Relaxation

Referred to as a natural relief for labor pain by the March of Dimes, touch relaxation begins with the expectant mother relaxed in a comfortable position.  The environment can include gentle relaxation music, dim lighting, and aromatherapy (such as a candle or incense if not in a hospital, or essential

oils diffusing).

The labor support person (LSP) touches or massages a certain group of muscles, helping her to focus relaxation on that particular muscle group.

Touch relaxation may be contraindicated when there are serious psychological issues, physical injury or a history of abuse.

How to do Touch Relaxation:

1. Start the Touch Relaxation time with a deep gentle breath in and slowly exhale.
2. Beginning at the top of the head, the LSP gently touches the scalp.  The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension there.
3. Move to the temples, the LSP gently touches one side and then the other. The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension there.
4. Next, one by one, comes the forehead, cheeks, chin and neck (both front and back). The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension there.
5. On one side, the LSP touches the shoulder, then down the arm, to the forearm and the hands.  Repeat on the other side. The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension at each spot.
6. Next comes the chest under the collar bone. The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension there.
7. The LSP touches the upper abdomen near the solar plexus or diaphragm. The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension there.
8. Then on one side, the LSP touches the hip, down the femur to the knee, down the calf to the ankle and foot.  Repeat on the other side.  The mother takes a deep breath in and on the exhale, releases tension at each spot.
9.  End the Touch Relaxation time with a deep gentle breath in and slowly exhale. 

A great reference for relaxation comes from Kathy Morelli LPC in her book BirthTouch: Shiatsu & Acupressure for the Childbearing Year.  You can get this book through Amazon in either paperback or Kindle version! Click here to learn more.

A very useful handout on Touch Relaxation is from Birthlore.com, click here.

Rhonda Taylor has a very nice handout also with scripting, click here

While this video only shows Touch Relaxation on the head, it will give you a good idea of how it works!