Currently most hospitals in Mass & NH are allowing birthing people to have two support people accompanying them in the hospital. Brigham and Womenś Hospital is one exception. Please contact me to inquire about regulations at your chosen birth place.
NEVER BEFORE HAS THE PRACTICE OF MINDFULNESS BEEN AS IMPORTANT AS IT IS NOW!
We can choose to look at the countless examples of things outside of our individual control right now, or we can choose to focus on the things we still have going for us, the clean air we are privileged to breathe, our refrigerators full of healthy food, our reliable internet connections, the ability to focus on the breath in our lungs. Gaining control of where you allow your attention to settle is the key to happiness and success in all things! The struggles we are all collectively experiencing are profound and real, but the human race is miraculously adaptable, creative, and determined. We are generous, imaginative, and intelligent. And we are a team!
First Thing First:
Take a few minutes every day to develop a relaxation routine. Find a comfortable, quiet spot in your home. Allow the sounds of family members, pets, nature, and the inner-workings of your home to blend together into the most soothing white noise. Use a guided meditation or put on some calm music if you like. Begin by focusing on your breathing. Slow and deepen your inhale and exhale. Try to pay attention to the feeling of the air rushing through your nostrils, the sound of it traveling inside your body, the sensation of your lungs filling and emptying, the rise and fall of your chest and belly. Sink into your seat, feel gravity holding you down, here on earth, here in your warm and familiar home, here in your strong, healthy body. Focus on what feels good. Observe the thoughts that pop in and out of your attention. Dismiss the negative ones without judgment and relish the positive ones. The more you do it, the easier and more enjoyable this practice will become. Give yourself the gift of feeling good NO MATTER WHAT THE CIRCUMSTANCES ARE AROUND YOU!
Please look up the facebook group Doc & Doula for a growing list of providers offering virtual guided meditations, pelvic floor physical therapy, chats with OB/GYN doc. Dr Bill Chun about the changing landscape of hospitl birth during the pandemic, and to chat with doulas, midwives, and new parents, and other pregnant people like you.
NO ONE PERSON CAN BE, OR DO, EVERYTHING. BUT WE HAVE THE POWER OF COLLABORATION ON OUR SIDE!
While we practice physical distancing, it is imperative to build up strong, reliable networks of virtual social supports, assistance, and advice. The birth world is rapidly adjusting to these changes. Please let us continue to be there for you, giving you expert guidance, access to the newest research, and connections to virtual communities to avoid social isolation during this precious time in your life.
THIS TOO SHALL PASS
