The Pushing

PUSH ... BREATHE

Have you ever anticipated something with such excitement that you unconsciously began to hold your breath? When you hold your breath, your brain does not get the oxygen that it needs. Eventually, this causes stress on the nervous, hormonal, and immune systems, which can impair both physical and psychological function. So it is important to remember to breathe.

BREATHE

According to a recent article that I read in Psychology Today, “breathing reduces pain, anxiety and depression, and enhances re-engagement in everyday and occupational activities. Breathing meditation has been shown to have a positive impact on a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, addictions, and stress tolerance.”

Remembering to breathe during seasons of transition, pain, and great expectation, is extremely important. Especially if what you are anticipating requires you to PUSH!

// PUSH: transitive verb. 1a : to press against with force in order to drive or impel. b : to move or endeavor to move away or ahead by steady pressure without striking. 2a : to thrust forward, downward, or outward. b : to cause to increase. //

As a birth doula, I have seen first hand the various stages of labor and what the transition phase looks like when its time to push. During the process of labor, my goal is to help mama remain calm and breathe. In between the contractions i do my absolute best to comfort her by offering sips of water, a cool towel, an acupressure massage, or just let her rest. Whatever she needs.

The same is true when you are birthing a vision. There is a moment when your water breaks and you know that it's time. The contractions start and all you can do is remind yourself to breathe! You know that feeling, when everything is happening at once and you don't know if your coming or going. I want to encourage you today to just stop, breathe, and take care of you. That baby is coming and when it does there will be even more work ahead. 

As you transition into the pushing phase it is imperative that you remind yourself to continue to breathe, listen to your body, and remember these four important keys
patience, understanding, seeking, and heavy-lifting.

Patience. 
This fruit of the Spirit will be needed not only during deliver but once your baby is here. During the pushing phase it's important to note that the baby doesn't come out on the first push. Pace your self. 

Understanding.
It's important to understand the process. With every push you are getting closer and closer to holding your baby, so use the breaks in between to rest, refocus, and refuel.

Seeking.
Seeking God for wisdom and direction will be key because sometimes your emotions will be all over the place and you can't afford to make emotional decisions. Sit down with wise counsel and get instructions on the things you don't understand. You gotta have a corner man or wingwoman.

​Heavy-lifting.
Now that you have reached that final push you will need all the strength you can muster. Bear down! Once you are holding your baby in your arms enjoy the moment and celebrate because the real work is just getting started! 

Remember what you learned during the process you will need many of these same tools as you build and nurture your vision.