In America, it’s almost a rite of passage for first-time parents to invest in “birth classes.” These sessions are designed to prepare both the mother and father for the journey of childbirth, equipping them with various strategies to manage the discomfort of labor. Among these strategies, Lamaze breathing has gained notoriety, often depicted in films and sitcoms.
The concept behind Lamaze is simple: by focusing on breath, a woman in labor can gain a measure of control over her body’s sensations as it undergoes significant changes. This technique aims to transform a potentially daunting experience into a source of empowerment.
However, my personal experience was different. Perhaps it was due to my decision to save money by renting a five-DVD set from the library instead of attending an in-person class, but I found Lamaze techniques to be ineffective when the moment of truth arrived. Despite having practiced yoga and other movement classes that emphasized breath for relaxation, nothing could ease my tension during labor.
Nonetheless, I’ve discovered that Lamaze breathing has unexpected applications in daily parenting life:
- When your toddler throws a tantrum and accidentally hits you during a timeout—breathe.
- When your partner questions why the house looks like a tornado hit it after you’ve been home all day—breathe.
- When a grandparent brings over that noisy toy you explicitly asked them to avoid—breathe.
- When you feel overwhelmed with physical touch from a baby needing constant attention, yet your partner craves intimacy—breathe.
- When finances are tight, and your child is unwell with a hefty deductible looming—breathe.
- In moments of chaos, envelop your little one in a hug, take a deep breath, and just relax. (And perhaps consider treating yourself to a glass of wine.)
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In summary, while Lamaze breathing may not have served its intended purpose during labor for everyone, it certainly finds relevance in the everyday challenges of parenting. Embracing the practice of breathing can offer a moment of calm amidst the chaos and remind us to take a step back, even in the most hectic situations.