Sit on rug or mat. Bring soles of feet together or sit in any comfortable cross- legged pose. Rest back against partner’s back or against wall. Relax hands on feet or thighs with palms up. Lift chest and elongate spine.
Take a few normal breaths and allow eyes to close. Begin to gradually deepen breath. Take slow, deep, smooth inhalations and normal exhalations.
With each inhalation open ribs sideways. While sitting back to back, synchronize breathing with partner’s breathing, and feel breath expanding side and back ribs.
At top of inhalation lift breastbone. Keep throat and face muscles relaxed. Exhale softly and naturally. To release, stretch out legs, and breathe normally.
Breathing awareness is essential for relaxation in labor.
