The Spirit of Birth
By Colette Crawford

January 2002

My legs shook, sweat dripped from my forehead into my eyes, nausea welled up, and my thoughts fired in every direction. I can't do anymore, I thought.

I heard the gentle reminder from my teacher, "Be aware of your breath," she said. "Watch it as you inhale softly and exhale smoothly."

My body got stronger. My endurance increased. My mind quieted. Yet, I was always challenged to go deeper. In this way yoga prepared me for childbirth.

Twelve years ago I was pregnant with my third baby, but eight weeks before giving birth I was broadsided by a speeding car. I suffered a severe back and pelvic injury and was threatened with premature labor. No x-rays or other tests could be taken without injury to my unborn baby. My doctor didn't know how the accident might affect the labor and birth. "Just wait and see," was all he could say. [ read more ]

Elia's Birth Story
By Elia's Mom

Elia Claire was born at home early in the morning on December 31, 2007.  Her birth was amazingly calm, instinctual, and even romantic. I feel so blessed to have experienced birth in this way; in a place I love, with my husband to support me.  To look back on it now, after almost 2 weeks, I can’t believe how easy it was.  Although technically, I labored for 20 hours or more, it feels like it went so fast! Here is how it all started…[ read more ]

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