What is 'visualisation'?!

[TheBreadstick]

I've seen visualisation mentioned here and there in regards to childbirth and I'm guessing it's some sort of technique! But after that I'm at a loss!

I've done both yoga and pilates in the past and in both I've learnt 'relaxation' techniques. I also practice mindfulness (when I have the time!) so I'm thinking perhaps 'visualiation' is something similar?

Would love to hear from anyone who a) knows what the hell it is! and/or b) has practiced it and could advise of how useful/beneficial it may be ...

Thank you

You might want to read information about hypnobirthing. That's where I've read about it during pregnancy.

The idea is to imagine your body doing what you want it to do. Visualise contractions happening as they're meant to (as in, what your body is meant to be doing), your cervix dilating etc.

It's supposed to be very helpful, or as helpful as other techniques in studies, for turning breech/transverse/OP babies.

Also imagining holding your baby, etc. to help keep you positive etc. and help you bond etc.

The relaxation techniques you'll have learnt in pilates will help you get to the point where you can focus on visualisations and enjoy some proper 1:1 time talking to baby/just feeling baby in there.

If there are any hypnobirthers about I'm sure they'll correct me if needed (probably). I'm taking some of the principles (such as visualising surges, breathing techniques etc) but DH wasn't wanting to do the full-thing.

Hiya, I am preparing with a hypnobirthing CD at the moment. Not a big hippy but am an anxious flower, have always used relaxation CDs and found them beneficial. I guess a lot of the CD is relaxation based with talking through the birth and imagining positive outcomes. Also gets you to visualise a beach where you can go in your mind & a pain dial to turn down the pain. To me it makes sense because a lot of our programmed ideas about birth (eg. screaming bird on eastenders) is about pain and drama so it just gets you to imagine other positive images. TBH it is just useful in stopping me from worrying about Bday as much as anything,, if it helps me to help myself during birth that is an added bonus. I am still open to drugs!

Thanks Ladies - that's really helpful. I think I'll do a bit more research into it!

Bread x