Pessimism is bad for your health! When you are sad
or stressed or think negative thoughts, hormones are secreted that
constrict blood flow to your internal organs as well as your baby,
increase your blood pressure and decrease immune function, making you
more vulnerable to fatigue and illness. In labor, pessimism may
contribute to slowing down the eventual birth of your baby.
In addition to regular exercise, good nutrition and
practicing relaxation breathing, learning ways to think positively can
help you cope more effectively with labor and delivery and lift your
spirits throughout the entire childbirth experience.
One suggestion for thinking positively during
childbirth and beyond is to look for lessons. When something happens
that makes you sad, instead of wondering, “Why me?” ask yourself, “What
I am supposed to learn?” Then listen to your mind and heart for the
answer. Try to figure out what is to be gained by having this
experience.
For more information about this and other subjects
related to preparing for childbirth,
read Motherwell® Maternity Fitness
Plan by Bonnie Berk, RN.
Copyright
2005 Bonnie Berk, Inc.
