Tune into your five senses to envision a safe and relaxing birth space.
Whether birthing in the hospital or at home, here are some ideas that will help you create your cozy birth nest.
Taste:
Water: Stay hydrated with sips of water throughout your labor.
Ginger: Chew on ginger for a natural way to ease nausea.
Honey Sticks: Get a quick burst of energy from natural honey.
Juice: Keep your energy levels up with small amounts of juice.
Labor-Aid: Try a homemade electrolyte drink to stay hydrated.
Hard Candy: Suck on hard candy to keep your mouth moist.
Tea: Sip on your favorite herbal tea for comfort.
Mint: Freshen your mouth and calm your stomach with mint.
Hearing:
Birth Playlist: Create a playlist of your favorite calming or uplifting songs.
Meditative Sounds: Play nature sounds or meditation music.
Supportive Words: Encourage your birth partner or doula to speak supportive words.
Affirmations Read Aloud: Have someone read your affirmations aloud.
White Noise: Use white noise to drown out unwanted sounds.
Silence: Embrace moments of silence to focus inward.
Mantra: Repeat a mantra to yourself during contractions.
Sight:
Candles: Light candles (real or LED) to create a warm, soft ambiance.
Photos: Surround yourself with photos of loved ones or inspiring images.
Affirmation Cards: Display your favorite affirmation cards around your birth space.
Fairy Lights: Use fairy lights to add a touch of magic and comfort.
No Clock in Sight: Avoid watching the clock to stay present in the moment.
Hospital Equipment Out of View: If possible, have the room arranges to keep medical equipment out of sight.
Birth Altar: Create a small altar with meaningful items.
Vision Board: Create a vision board with positive images and words.
Artwork from Older Siblings: Hang artwork created by your older children.
The Faces of Your Support People: Keep your support team close to provide visual comfort.
Smell:
Clary Sage: Use essential oil of clary sage to promote contractions
Lavender: Diffuse lavender for its calming properties.
Peppermint: Use peppermint for nausea relief.
Citrus: Enjoy the refreshing scent of citrus.
Fresh Flowers: Fill the room with the natural fragrance of fresh flowers.
Familiar Piece of Clothing: Have a piece of clothing with a familiar scent nearby.
Touch:
Birth Comb: Squeeze a birth comb to help manage labor pain.
Counter Pressure: Have your partner apply counter pressure to your back.
Your Own Pillow/Robe/Socks: Bring items from home for comfort.
Massage: Enjoy gentle massage to relieve tension.
Comfortable Room Temperature: Ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature.
Hot Pack: Use a hot pack to soothe sore muscles.
Cold Washcloth: Apply a cold washcloth to your forehead or neck for relief.
By engaging all five of your senses, you can create a birth space that feels safe, comforting, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re at home or in the hospital, these small touches can make a significant difference in your birthing experience.