5 Ways to Prepare Your Mind & Soul for Birth

As I sit here just days or hours (who knows?!) away from birth-day, I thought it would be helpful to share some of the ways in which I have been preparing mentally for the upcoming big event. Truth be told, with two small children running around begging to be entertained (school cannot start soon enough!), moments to focus solely on myself are far and few between. Nevertheless, I try and sneak in some time.

Pampering & indulgence. I cannot sing the praises enough for this well-known prescription for pregnancy woes. Whether it be a prenatal massage, pedicure or just a really long shower, treating yourself to something that you might not otherwise do makes you feel good, provides a mental break and recharges your soul to keep pressing forward.

Focused quiet time. I could have called this "meditation," but for some, that may seem too serious, hokey or intimidating. Take 5-10 minutes to sit quietly by yourself, close your eyes and focus on your growing belly or imagine your upcoming birth. Incorporate some deep, cleansing breaths. If you're so inclined, run through some imagery scripts you've practiced for birth. Find whatever it is that puts you in your happy place and use it.

Read. Not the latest bestseller -- read positive birth stories. As you approach your own birth, draw on the experience and positivity found in women who have gone there before. I highly recommend the many birth stories found in the book Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin. Or, do a Google search on "positive birth stories." At last check, this yielded more than 3 million results.

Sleep. Another oft-suggested piece of advice that is worth it's weight in down-filled pillows. All of the sudden, my tiredness level has gone from a 5 to an 8.5. And even with two young children, I'm finding a way to sneak in a nap or two. TV time? Sure thing. Friends asking to take my kids for a few hours? Yes, please. Husband takes care of the kids' bath and bedtime while I squeeze in an early evening snooze? You bet.

Talk. While some like to draw inward when preparing for a big event, others feel the need to reach out. Hopefully, you have someone in your life who represents a positive birth influence. This could be someone who had an empowering birth experience or perhaps it's just someone who truly believes in you and does a good job of building your esteem. Make weekly (or more often, if feasible) dates to talk to this special person and share your thoughts and anxiety as you lead up to birth.

What were/are some of the things you did to get "in the zone" for birth?