As I approach the final weeks of pregnancy, I’m focusing on creating a birth environment that supports me physically, emotionally, and mentally. Over the years, I’ve learned that preparation isn’t just about logistics—it’s about feeling empowered and held through every stage of labour. Here’s a peek into the tools I’m using to support myself.
Supportive Tools & Practices
Labour is as much mental and emotional as it is physical, so I’ve been building a toolkit that supports all of me:
I have a selection of remedies ready to go in my hospital bag, chosen for their gentle, supportive qualities before, during, and after labour. Having them close at hand gives me a sense of calm and confidence knowing I have natural support ready.
Affirmations & mindset prep
Words matter. I’ve been practicing affirmations daily to remind myself that my body knows what to do, that I am safe, and that I am supported. Some of my favorites are:
- “I trust my body and my baby.”
- “I am calm, confident, and grounded.”
- “I surrender to the timing of birth.”
Vision board
I’ve found that seeing my intentions visually can be incredibly grounding. Back in 2020, in the midst of the C*VID pandemic, I created a vision board with affirmations, images, and words to bring with me to the hospital for my second son’s birth. The midwives were really impressed with the idea, some even took photos; when I returned to the maternity hospital in 2023, I was very proud to see that they had created their own affirmation board in the long corridor of the maternity ward—a little legacy of positivity and support for other birthing parents. Tools like this don’t just help us emotionally—they can ripple out, inspiring and uplifting others around us.
Spotify Labour playlist
Music has been one of my biggest anchors. I’ve been listening to this for weeks now to familiarize myself with the head space I want to be in during labour. Music is a fantastic tool for encouraging grounding and feelings of strength and empowerment, and now the playlist feels like a familiar safe space. It also encourages movement which is always helpful when trying to dance baby down into your pelvis.
Reflexology & acupuncture appointments
Regular sessions have been helping prepare my body, calm my nervous system, and support my readiness for labour. And of course I have broken out the “good creams” for rubbing my feet while I can still reach them.
Embracing Braxton Hicks
Instead of seeing them as a nuisance (I’ve been getting them a lot!!), I decided to shift my perspective and view these surges as my body’s way of practicing for the real thing. They’ve become an excuse to rehearse breathing, visualization, and relaxation techniques, which makes me feel more prepared.
Reiki-infused Yoga Nidra
This has been a cornerstone of my emotional preparation. I’ve practised nightly for the past few months, and since teaching a Reiki class last month, I’ve felt this practice intensify. It helps me drop into deep rest, strengthens my connection to my body and baby, and centres me emotionally.
Together, these practices create a holistic system of support—body, mind, and spirit—so I can feel empowered, safe, and nurtured as I prepare to welcome this little baby in the next few weeks.
Final Thoughts & A Prompt for You
Every birth space will look different, but what matters most is choosing supports that help you feel calm, strong, and safe. For me, that means surrendering to the timing of birth and surrounding myself with words, sounds, and practices that remind me that I am held and I can do this. What would make your birth space feel like home?
Le solas agus grá,
Gráinne
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GráBeo Holistics by Gráinne Staunton 
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