Breath as a Birth Tool

When we think about preparing for birth, it’s easy to picture movements, stretches, and yoga postures. But one of the most powerful tools we have isn’t physical at all—it’s our breath.

A student once shared this with me after her birth. She was scheduled for a cesarean and found herself alone in the moments before surgery, waiting for her partner to join her. She remembered the practices from class and laughed, saying:
“Of course I wasn’t doing cat–cow or downward dog! But I was using the breathing techniques we practiced in class.”

The tool that made the biggest difference? Breathing. She said:
“I couldn’t move my body, so my rhythm came from following the ebb and flow of my breath.”

This story is such a reminder: there will be times in birth when movement or sound isn’t possible. But the breath is always there—steady, calming, and grounding.

Try this now: Inhale gently for a count of four. Exhale slowly for a count of six. Repeat for one minute. Notice how your body softens and your mind steadies.

No matter what kind of birth you’re preparing for, your breath will always be your anchor.