Remember your first dance…full of love, intimacy, anticipation? Imagine how much greater those same feelings become as you dance together while you are in labor and awaiting the birth of your baby. The labor dance is an intimate and beneficial way to help ease labor discomfort, at the same time allowing for deeper connection between you and your partner. The rhythmic sway, soothing touch, and upright position not only helps you stay relaxed, but evidence shows that it even reduces the intensity of pain. Besides all the positive physical impacts, this dance is such a beautiful and memorable way for your partner to stay connected and supportive during active labor. Let’s see how it works.
So, what is the labor dance, you ask…The labor dance is simply a slow dance. You and your partner face each other with your arms wrapped gently around one another’s neck and back. In this upright position, you are able to comfortably lean and rest your head on your partner’s shoulder as you sway together to music of your choice. The leaning or standing position helps your body work with gravity and can lessen back pain while possibly shortening contractions and making them more productive. This position encourages the baby to descend because of the way the pelvic joints rotate. Furthermore, your well-being is increased by the embrace of your loved one as the rhythm and music add to your comfort. Even more, your partner is able to put pressure on or massage your lower back from this position.
Oh wait…There is ONE noteworthy difference between a labor dance and a slow dance that I need to point out: Mum always leads!
So, what are you waiting for? Why not make a playlist of your favorite relaxing tunes today. If you start practicing right away you won’t miss a beat when the big day arrives. With all the obvious benefits, I’m sure this special dance will be one of the most favorite and memorable parts of your birth story.