Top 3 Things Birthing Mothers Can Learn from Olympians

“I’m pretty confident” 1

“You have to train your mind like you train your body.” 2

“If you think you can’t, you won’t, and if you think you can, you will.” 3

These quotes all come from Olympic medalists – but they could equally all apply to birth!

Millions of people throughout the world watch in awe as Olympians demonstrate their skill and agility at the Olympic Games.

These athletes reach their ultimate potential through dedication, persistence and training. They didn’t become an Olympian through ‘luck’.

Think of all of the early mornings when they dragged themselves out of bed whilst we were still cozy and warm under the doona. Visualise all of those events where they had to perform in front of hundreds/thousands of people and move past their fear. Imagine how many times have they pushed on, regardless of injuries, sickness, family issues… they never gave up.

Show me ONE Olympic medalist who hasn’t trained? You’re right, such a person does not exist! We all know that they train and train hard. Though most people don’t recognise that it isn’t just their bodies that they train; they put equal focus on training their minds.

In my time teaching hypnobirthing I have taught 3 Olympic Gold Medalists (Libby Trickett and Sara Carrigan amongst them) and a variety of other elite sportspeople from all throughout Australia, in preparation for their births. It is no accident that athletes are often drawn towards the Hypnobirthing Australia Program, as it is a childbirth education program that focuses on training both the mind and body for birth. Giving birth can be one of the most challenging physical/mental/emotional events in a woman’s life. Athletes KNOW that preparation of the mind and body are essential elements for success.

Within sport, the mindset is, in the end, what separates the good and even the great from those who reach their ultimate potential. We can ALL achieve our ultimate potential through harnessing the power of our mind.

Here is my list of the TOP 3 THINGS that birthing mothers can learn from the Olympians:

1. Visualise what you want

Just as an athlete visualises themselves completing the event with grace and ease – or standing on the podium receiving their medal… we too can visualise our goal. Visualise yourself calm and empowered through your birth, then holding your precious baby in your arms. Feel it, see it, hear it – really get that picture in your head. Focusing on our goal can help us to work through the challenges we may face on the way. Keep your eyes on the prize, mamas!

2. Put in the time and effort

An athlete doesn’t reach their goals by burying their head in the sand and hoping for the best. They put in the time and effort to train both the body and mind on a daily basis. They obviously have some raw natural talent and so do you. Your body is actually designed and primed for birth?. The secret to success for athletes is that they reached their potential by honing in on those skills and staying in peak physical and mental shape. They have put in the time and effort, because they know that persistence pays off. As another Olympian once said,

“Failure I can live with. Not trying is what I can’t handle!”4.

3. Have the best coach

Every athlete needs the support, guidance and instruction of an inspirational coach; that person who helps them to develop their natural abilities and have the techniques that enable them to excel. A coach sees their potential, urges them on, holds them accountable, supports and believes in them.

Did you know that you have this same sort of support available to you? The Hypnobirthing Australia program has helped thousands of parents to reach their goal of a positive and empowering birth experience. There is nothing else that will propel you to reach your potential better than the guidance from one of our inspiring practitioners in face-to-face classes or the online course! With the right combination of natural ability (you’ve got that!), mindset, knowledge, tools and support – you will have the preparation of champions.

So what are you waiting for? Give yourself the absolute best ingredients for success! ?

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For information on classes with Melissa CLICK HERE

1. Libby Trickett, Australian multi gold medalist in swimming
2. Bruce Jenner, USA medalist in the decathlon
3. Kellie Wells, USA indoor and outdoor hurdles champion
4. Sanya Richards-Ross, USA bronze medalist at 400 meters