Relaxation is the absence of tension in the body and mind, meaning that our muscles are relaxed and our minds are quiet. Rest and relaxation is something we all look forward to on weekends and holidays. Most of us are stressed and rushed and overworked in our daily life. Make time to relax as much as possible, every day. This is important for all members of the family.

Taking the time to practice relaxation techniques (perhaps combined with positive visualisation) can help during pregnancy to relieve stress and tiredness. Most importantly it is a good tool to use during labour. If you are familiar with the feeling of relaxation, it will be easier for you to achieve a relaxed state between contractions, and retain as much of your energy as possible.

Benefits of relaxation include:

• Relieves stress and tension

• Increased energy

• Feeling good about yourself, feeling calmer and more focused

• Positive thoughts, thinking clearly.

• Reduce anxiety, insomnia and fatigue

• Better mental health

So how can I relax?

• Gentle focused exercise such as Yoga or Tai Chi

• Breathing techniques such as abdominal breathing or Pranayama

• Body work – massage, acupuncture, reiki, cranio-sacral therapy, reflexology

• Meditiation

• Progressive muscle relaxation – in this technique you tighten and relax progressive parts of the body. There are many relaxation CD’s available, as well as downloadable mp3’s and youtube clips.

• Hot bath

• Listening to music (relaxation music, or music that you find calming or would send you to sleep)