In the videos I watched, part 5 began with week 21. The narrator noted that the baby has increased brain development at this stage. I would choose to start the music bonding experience somewhere between the 20th and 22nd week. According to the video, week 22 is a good time for “loving talks” with your baby. I would begin by having the mother (and father, if possible) write a short lullaby-type song for the baby. It seems that short would be best so the parents could sing it often. I would then have the mother and father sing it to the baby, and if desired, I would accompany the parents on guitar or piano as they sang. Both parents (but especially the mother) would be advised to sing the song to the unborn child every day if possible.
I am choosing part 9, Birth. At this stage, Weeks 38-41, mother and baby are preparing for birth. The narrator states the baby has less room to move and amniotic fluid has decreased. The baby sleeps more often. The narrator suggests this is a good time to talk and sing to your baby to calm and comfort him. The narrator also states, “Take advantage of any extra quiet moments to rest up for the bid day.” I would create a bonding experience to bring relaxation to mother and child and to build positive and encouraging feelings for the upcoming birth. I would begin by having the mother speak to baby with words of love and encouragement or anything that is on her mind that she wants to tell baby. I would then have the mother sing to baby while gently patting or rubbing her tummy with the music. If the mother has a song she has sung to baby throughout pregnancy, I would encourage the mother to sing the song familiar to baby. The mother could also sing simple well-known lullabies. I would end with a meditation guided by music. Studies suggest babies respond best to classical music by composters like Mozart and Vivaldi, however, I would encourage the mother to use soft music she enjoys and music that brings her feelings of relaxing. I would encourage the mother to close her eyes and imagine her baby and imagine a successful birth.
I chose video 6- Mother-child Bonding. This video meditation focuses on weeks 25-29. During these weeks the narrator states that brain-wave activity is detectable related to sight and hearing, talking and singing brings comfort to the baby, response to sound becomes more consistent with greater focus/attention to the mother's voice, and kicks and movements become stronger in response to stimuli. In my Mother-Child bonding experience I would start with a music listening/relaxation time using a classical listening piece for the mother to clear her thoughts and focus her attention on her baby. We would continue the session with some singing from a selection of lullabies and/or songs that have special meaning to the mother with accompaniment by me on guitar or harp. I would want to give the mother a book of lyrics to some lullabies that she could continue singing to the baby on her own to increase their bonding. We would finish the session with a combined arts activity including making/coloring a mandala using colors of purple (as the suggested color to focus on during this stage of pregnancy) while listening to another classical listening selection. I would encourage the mother to sing/hum/talk to her baby as she feels prompted. I would also encourage her to focus on clearing any fear or anxiety she may be feeling at this time and fill her heart with thoughts and feelings of love, acceptance, and courage.
What a beautiful session plan. The Sound BIrthing music playlists for pregnancy, or Labor and Birth would work nicely for your listening experiences. I spent 2 years analyzing and sequencing music especially for mother and baby. This was the focus of my doctorl dissertation. If you take the CAB class or the MTACB class you will learn about these. This is my favorite Lullabies Book. You can get a used copy on Amazon.com for $4 including shipping. https://www.amazon.com/Lullabies-Illustrated-Metropolitan-Museum-Art/dp/0152017283/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479736217&sr=8-1&keywords=lullabies+metropolitan+museum
I am choosing the first video for two reasons; in the literature researchers mentioned that the baby knows the feelings of each parent in terms of his/her conception. I believe it can be the source of baby's first feelings of acceptance or rejection. Also, in the reading, there was an experience where the baby refused to nurse from the mother because of her initial feelings of wanting an abortion. I want to use film score to either meditate on the feelings of acceptance, or work through parental doubts/rejection. For example, the piece "That Next Place" from the soundtrack of Meet Joe Black includes horns and sailing woodwinds/strings that encourage reflection/gratitude/appreciation. Much like the video, I would encourage the parents (mom especially) to meditate on how happy she is to be in the beginnings of this life-changing process, to let the feelings of happiness, excitement and pride overwhelm her/him. In the song's moments of low tones, let the parents think fleetingly on the bumps in the road/anxieties, for the sole purpose of negating them as the instruments sore again and gratitude penetrates these negative feelings. This experience can be repeated multiple times throughout gestation, at home alone or with a significant other, to shape/reaffirm the fetus' feelings of acceptance.
I choose the final stage: birth and preparing for birth, weeks 38-41. In my experience, these were some of the most difficult weeks in my own pregnancy. I was anxious to get to meet my son and depressed often. I thought my son would never come out (he was a late arrival). I remember sitting on my birthing ball and watching calming visual movies on Netflix. The ones I used specifically were nature vision. For me, I personally connect with nature, and the images, along with the music are very soothing for me. I would base my bonding experience on my personal experience, as well as the Narrators information.
The Narrator suggest that before birth and when preparing for birth, it is a quiet time. It is a time to relax and talk, sing, act calm with your baby. In my own experience, this was very helpful. There was a lot of "down time".
For my bonding experience, I would suggest the mother focus on imagery that soothes her. For me, it is the ocean or bodies of water. I would tell the mother to watch these images and listen to these sounds if applicable. I would then join with the mother in improvising over these images and sounds. I would encourage the mother to make up a vocal improvisation for her baby. I would have the mother relax, close her eyes, breathe deeply, and be seated on a birthing ball, with her feet firmly planted on the ground. The vocal improvisation would be completely guided by the mother and supported musically by the music therapist.
Afterwards, I would encourage the mother to engage in positive affirmations, like the videos suggested. I would have the mother state positive things about her baby and the upcoming birth. This would all be supported musically, by myself, as the music therapist, while the images continued to play.
Finally, I woulld have the images contain the color peach and spray peach scents in the air. According the narrator, peach represents: compassion, fruition, strength, protection, confidence, and good communication. These are all things that the mother and child will need to get through the birthing experience.
Dorian I can relate to your experience as mine was the same with my son and I thought he was never going to come out. :) You are right that can be the most difficult and anxiety provoking time. I remember counting kicks and being worried that something was wrong. Focusing on the quiet experiences of singing and bonding with baby, deep breathing, and imagery are all great ideas during this time. One of the things I work on with some moms is we make a Positive Affirmations Birth Collage. While listening to supportive music we create a large poster by cutting out pictures, images and words from magazines about birth that are affirming. We call this a Birth Power Collage. We talk about how the images and the music are supportive, empowering and affirming of the upcoming birth process. I like the idea of the peach scent- I love peach. Essential oils can be uplifting and empowering and can give energy and clarity. I often use orange as it helps me to focus when I am foggy or tired.
6. I choose “ active thoughts” period (weeks 30 to 34) As we can see that is the period where the mother is in a third trimester and she is able to feel the baby very well. Therefore she is able to connect with the baby through kicking, moving which will motivated and stimulated her to communicate more deeply with her baby and to send some extra positive thoughts, affirmations, songs, little stories, explanation about different sounds that both of them are exposing to, also to meet the baby with siblings through the their voice and touch … As the baby in this period can hear many sounds and can recognize mothers voice especially, and her touch I will suggest her to take her time for “here and now” moments during the day and to focus and to use consciously activities like - singing and making sweet little bonding song/s, to dance slowly embracing her belly, to move slowly with the baby and to put her feelings and impressions on the paper (or in the pregnancy journal). To follow her reactions and her babies as well. Also I will include father as well in this process .Speaking about recorded music the narrator noted that this is great period for the foreign languages and classical music. Speaking about that… is it necessary to pick and suggest strictly classical music, or we should have to make before some kind of “ music therapy interview” with the mom and according to that make and help her to make a list of songs from other musical genre that maybe she preferred more and listen to? Tnx
HI Nana: Good questions! Yes I always do a Music Therapy Assessment when I work with clients. As I mentioned on the Video Chats last week I usually do prenatal work with families in the context of preparing for birth. We start our work together at some point between 20-27 weeks of development. I have a 3 page assessment that I use with my clients. We also have 40 playlists of different genres of music that are specifically sequenced across 15 musical variables. The playlists are available on the Spotify Platform. We use these playlists in the Creative Arts Birthing Program and the Music Therapy Assisted Childbirth program. The playlists have been created specifically for birth preparation but can be helpful for all stages of pregnancy and post partum. When we work with clients we also give them access to the playlists if they are working with one of our trained practitioners. I have not used the playlists in this course because the emphasis is on live music making, but if the group is interested I could create a set of playlists for music listening and prenatal bonding. :)
I have chosen part 3, Healthy Emotional Foundation which includes weeks 13-16 of pregnancy. At this point mom will likely feel she is "out of the danger zone" and ready to bond without fear. Also mom and her partner may have just seen baby on an ultrasound for the first time. I chose this time frame because I think it's when pregnancy beings to feel "real" and this can be a time a lot of emotions show up unannounced. During these four weeks baby begins to hear well enough to react to auditory stimuli and move toward or away from sound.
I would begin with a quiet centering exercise to allow mom (and partner) space to check in with themselves and baby. I would provide soft fingerpicked guitar music and a few gentle prompts to help relax. I would then have mom and dad discuss anything that may have come up during their meditative time and use their wants/needs to move into more active music making to engage with baby. We could use soft instruments or just voices to greet baby, and the parents could gently touch baby. I would encourage mom to speak up about any feelings she is having and if she is intuiting anything from baby. I would end with a relaxation exercise that would incorporate a visualization of their baby at this point of development.
Yes Laura I love these ideas. Often this is the time in which mom feels she is out of the danger zone and it is safe to deepen the bond with the baby. Gently soft sounds are so important here. And I like your approach to checking in with feelings... sometimes parents feel embarrassed at this stage about talking to or singing to the baby. I always encourage internal communications and openness to intuition. Great ideas!
That is a great perspective to have, that some parents feel like they are out of the danger zone with their pregnancy by this point. That can definitely help them start to bond without as much inhibition. And thanks, Mary, for sharing that sometimes parents are embarrassed to openly talk or sing to the baby at this point. I wonder if that's because the pregnancy isn't visibly obvious by this point? Maybe they feel like they're talking to no one, or talking to themselves?
Pick one of the video examples from this week and create a music bonding experience for this stage of development in utero.
I am choosing part 7: Active Thought. During these weeks (30-34) the following takes place: Light: baby will move to the touch a bright light Taste: baby can react to strong foods mom eats Tears: baby forms tears now Good time to explain sounds outside of womb and for family members to welcome baby All 5 senses are working well Baby may dream while sleeping Mom can probably tell when baby is asleep vs awake Baby is doing deep inhale practice - creating rhythmic breathing Baby is experiencing rapid brain growth It's a good time for classical music and music in foreign lanuages Mom can start to tell baby's favorite songs, languages, poetry and people by way he moves Baby is aware of mother's feelings and reacts to her moods Color therapy: violet: balance and stabilize emotions, forgiveness, releasing past hurt feelings, looking to the future, transformation and elevation of mind/body/spirit Affirmations, I am safe, I am loved, I forgive myself and others, I am enjoying a new, kinder way of being, I am at peace.
Music Bonding Experience: A party of the five senses. Use fresh violet flowers for the smell and color. Have mom taste different flavors/foods and talk to baby about his/her likes/dislikes. Explain what she is eating. Play with light and sound and watch baby's reactions and movements in relationship to the position of them. Have mom create a chant out of her 2 favorite affirmations and sing it repeatedly to baby while massaging her belly with a favorite oil. She could do this regularly, outside of the music therapy session. It would also be fun to create a song that integrates the different voices of the family members (sibling/partner/grandparents, etc.) anyone living at home, introducing everyone, so baby can start to learn the different voices and say hello. Definitely leave space for baby to have his/her turn in the hello song as well! :) It would also be fun to have a special bonding song that each family member sings with baby. This would also be a great stage to create a kick-came song (like call response) with or without accompaniment.
Since baby is practicing rhythmic breathing, this would be a great time to create/practice a breathing song (probably in 6/8) that mom/baby can match their breathing and movements too. Important to pick a BPM that is close to in synch with mommas heart rate (which baby will probably be double time!) wind instruments could be nice for this, especially native american flute.
It could be fun to have a sleep song (integrating the idea of sweet dreams since baby is probably dreaming now) and an awake song for baby, since mom can now tell the difference. Live with mom singing or recorded.
Another fun intervention could be to make a baby playlist of what mom interprets as his/her favorite songs based on his/her movements, since he/she now tends to communicate his/her likes/dislikes. Once the playlist has been created, she can use it often to communicate with her child.
I love the song idea where everyone in the family has a part! The siblings would LOVE that! And a short musical interlude for baby to kick for everyone. Great idea.
omigosh, i typed up the whole intervention and it didn't register and now it's gone. ugh. i have to do this again. it's frustrating, so pardon me if it's not as eloquent as my first go around.
For my intervention I chose part 7: Active Thought
The ideal time for the initiation of this intervention would be towards the end of week 33. The music selected for this intervention is a recording of Mozart's Concert for Violin and Orchestra in E major - Adagio Movement (KV 261). Here is one of many of its recordings : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSrOwiuJ0jg
The intervention I propose will stimulate the baby's increasingly active mind and encourage their development of understanding concepts and language. The intervention will develop breathing for both mother and child and help increase ability to relax and bond.
Mozart's Adagio movement is at 60 bpm and is in common time. As the mother listens, she should be encouraged to either mentally focus on the color Violet (as suggested in part 7 of the video) or the music therapist can provide her with visual stimuli of that color. The mother should practice breathing in for four counts and out for four counts (2 counts of 2 worked better for me, personally, so that's an option too). Engagement of multiple senses can be furthered by encouraging the mother to rock back and forth to the music and/or rub her belly as she breathes, looks and listens.
This intervention could be extended past the music listening and breathing. The first theme, as introduced by the orchestra in the beginning of the music, has a sing song quality and a distinct tune. The mother could listen to this tune, either in the recording or as played by the music therapist until she feels comfortable with it. Christina Rossetti's "Clouds" fits in well with the four phrases of the first theme and also goes well with the theme of relaxation and breathing. The mother will be accompanied by the recording, music therapist or if she is adept enough at an instrument, herself. Singing along to the melody, the mother can use the poem phrased as follows: "White sheep, white sheep, on a blue hill / When the wind stops, you all stand still / When the wind blows, you walk away slow / White sheep, white sheep, where do you go?"
The mother can continue to sing this to her baby for the rest of her pregnancy and into the life of her baby outside the womb.
Love this Christine- Mozart is the perfect choice for babies in the womb. Dr. Tomatis, ENT from France has a program for expecting mothers that uses the music of Mozart and Gregorian chant exclusively. More information can be found at www.tomatis.com. I am a certified Tomatis provider and I completed my training with Dr. Valerie Gas from Paris, a student of Dr. Tomatis. The music of Moazrt is regular and predictable. This is my favorite recording of Mozart for Mothers To Be: https://www.amazon.com/Mozart-Mothers-be-Various-artists/dp/B000V8FRS6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493502815&sr=8-1&keywords=mozart+for+mothers+to+be The music of Mozart can be used effectively for breathing. I like the idea of the music therapist introducing the themes to the client.
While this was not specifically mentioned in the video amniocentesis occurs around week 20 during the wholeness and holiness stage. The color therapy suggested was white as a means to generate feelings of white purity, lite, energy and holiness, hope, innocents, and divinity. For a family who has just received a prenatal diagnosis it may be more challenging for parents to focus on these sacred and holy moments of creation because they are going through the grieving process for a typical child.
I would start with journaling their thoughts and fears about the prenatal diagnosis. If words are a challenge I would offer improvisation with Orff instruments or they keyboard to provide a means to express themselves without words. I would share with them stories of joys and growth of children who had prenatal diagnoses and how they were still able to live happy, healthy lives.
I would use meditation for them to meditate and visualize the concern areas and how they can visualize them either healing or growing based on what their prenatal diagnosis is. I would have them use affirmations with positive statements of love and growing especially related to their specific diagnosis. This would be supported with soft music either recorded or live depending on the situation.
A personalized song collection would be developed of songs that help mom to relax and refocus her energies when she is feeling overwhelmed and scared of the unknown. This way she is working to not add on extra anxieties to the child.
Because one goes through a grieving process with a prenatal diagnosis I would want to do several sessions over a 5 week period to help process the different steps and provide support to look forward to the child and ease the stress of the unknown.
Yes journailing and instrument or vocal improvisation is an excellent place to start. I would also recommend mandala drawing.Helping mother and father to process this information and work through the stage of grief and loss for the "normal child" they were expecting will be important. I like to help clients create a personalized playlist as well to manage the stress and anxiety of coming to acceptance about a prenatal diagnosis. Once the client has worked through the trauma and grief of the experience and is ready also begin working on preparing for birth we begin to work with the Sound Birthing Music playlists to help them to focus on what they can do to prepare themselves and help them focus on what they can do for the baby to help make it a positive and less stressful birth experience.
Another thing I might do if I was present during the procedure is prior to the amniocentesis procedure I would do a music relaxation experience with the mother and baby. I would have the mother explain to the baby what was going to happen and that we needed the baby to not be afraid and ask the baby to remain as still as possible during the procedure. If I was not there during the procedure I would recommend that the mother due a self relaxation exercise with deep breathing and music and explain the procedure to the baby before it occurs and to talk to the baby gently while the procedure is occurring, and give the baby reassurance after the procedure.
Not many people seek out prenatal services (outside of doctors or midwives) before the 2nd trimester, so I chose the 3rd video, Healthy Emotional Foundation, covering weeks 13-16. The video stated that “the subconscious soaks up all thoughts and emotions from you, however fleeting. This is the perfect time to send love, and bask in the love from those around you.” This is a perfect time for the parents to talk through all fears, concerns, worries, and anxieties. As the parents address their baggage, they can talk through what they are experiencing to their prenate, and explain everything to their unborn child. I would facilitate this discussion by selecting supportive music that falls within their musical preferences. If there are words to the song(s), we would do some light lyric analysis. If the music is instrumental, I would choose uplifting and supportive music to keep a feeling of safety as the discussion ensues with themselves and their prenate. If talking aloud is too personal, I would have the parents journal to the music.
This is also the perfect time to write a womb song, to help the parents focus on their anticipation, love, and excitement for the child. Once the song is written, the parents can sing it to their baby regularly. Writing a womb song this early can also be beneficial to help ease the mother’s worries, as she can sing it aloud or in her mind whenever she starts to think about her concerns. Using the song to ease her worries can also help communicate love to the prenate, and combat the negative hormones that come from negative emotions.
One more option could be for the mother’s partner to write a song for the mother. Similar to a womb song, in that it would be short and loving, but meant only for the partner to sing/play to the mother. This will help the mother “bask in the love from those around” her, and will communicate to the prenate the love the parents have for each other. This song would be used throughout the pregnancy to continually communicate love, affection, support, and security for the mother and baby.
Yes Laura this is a great time to work with parents as it this point there is a developmental shift in the mother as she starts to see physical signs of pregnancy (her belly grows) and her fear decreases as with each passing day the vitality of this baby continues to grow and risk of losing baby minimizes. I find that many couples do not contact me prior to 20 weeks. But starting as early as possible with the prenatal music bonding process is good for parents and baby. :)
If I begin prenatal music therapy services, I will likely generally begin sessions between weeks 20-25. With the baby's hearing and touch senses well-developed, and having made significant progress in the pregnancy, there are many great opportunities here for prenatal bonding. That said, for the sake of this exercise here, I'm going to chose the first video: Conception and Creation (conception through week 7). The time of conception until week 7 is important as it is the beginning of the baby's life and the time when the mother discovers she is expecting. By week 7, the baby's face has recognizable eyes, nose, lip, and tongue. Baby's limbs are growing rapidly and muscles are developing enabling tiny movement.
I'm inspired to reflect on music therapy for this stage of pregnancy because I've seen a great need and opportunity for music therapy as an outreach support service to community crisis pregnancy centers. The mothers who seek out these centers need immediate validation for their fears and acceptance and hope to overcome whatever their concerns are that brought them to the center (financial, relational, health, personal, etc.). In addition, helping them to immediately recognize the dignity of and miracle of their child and begin to communicate with their baby will help them have faith and hope in the future. Music therapy can help with these things! I'm imagining this session taking place around week 6 or 7 as a second visit to a crisis pregnancy center. The counselor or psychologist would assess the mother at the first visit and decide with the music therapist if they would or would not recommend music therapy. Ideally, the first visit would confirm the pregnancy and begin the process of finding practical physical support for this mother (material or financial support, medical support, getting safety at a maternity home if necessary, etc.). The music therapy piece would bring the emotional and spiritual support.
The goals of the session would be to offer an opportunity for the mother’s expression of feelings, validation of feelings, validation of the baby's dignity, an opportunity to begin to communicate feelings of warmth and acceptance to the baby, and provide resources for continuing support until the next session.
-I would begin the session with a warm, sincere, and sensitive greeting between the mother, the father (is present/appropriate), and myself. -Then I would move into an opening reflection or prayer while playing quiet piano music. Leaving plenty of room for quiet instrumental music to reflect and relax. I might pair this with sacred art or scenes from nature. -From here I would offer an opportunity for her to talk with me if I sensed that she wanted that time. I would skip to the next point if she wasn’t ready. -I would move into improvisation with a variety of instrument choices (after showing her how they work). I would stay on the piano to support her playing and let her play the “talking instruments.” If appropriate and after a little bit of time, I might provide some improvisation prompts, such as “how did you feel when you found out about your pregnancy?” or “what would you like to say to your baby?” or “what kind of mother would you like to be?” -After this, I would validate her responses and gently offer an opportunity for her to discuss anything that was brought up in the improvisation. -Finally, I would have us sing a few gentle lullabies. I would begin without words (just humming or “ooo”) and sing a few songs inviting her to sing along. When I felt she connected or particularly enjoyed one (or just after some time), I would switch to the words and sing that one a few times. -We would arrange for the follow-up session. And I would love to send her on her way with a beautiful and simple bouquet of blue flowers, a CD and lyric booklet for the few lullabies that we sang, and a reflective and inspiring prayer or meditation booklet.
What a beautiful session! This could be so helpful for so many women in processing the news of the arrival of baby. I remember when I found out I was expecting our last child at the age of 40. Confirming the pregnancy that day was one of the scariest of my life. Before I even sat down to complete the intake paperwork my medical practice handed me a fistful of medical pamphlets about what can go wrong in pregnancy after age 35. And they immediately labeled me as high risk, even though I had no medical conditions. I felt alone, afraid, and worried for my health and my baby for no reason. I was completely fine and he was completely fine. I think that this would be an amazing program for mothers of any age but it would be especially helpful for high risk mothers. They really need that extra support in early pregnancy. I encourage you to offer this session and let us know how it goes.
I choose part 9, birth. At this point, I imagine I will have worked with this woman through her pregnancy and we will have developed an authentic and trusting relationship. We would begin this session with the lighting of a candle and some calm breathing exercises to soothing recorded music. We would sing the womb song she and I will have written in an earlier session, and move into a free improvisation after its completion. We will discuss her readiness for the birth. What are her feelings about the labor? Does she have a playlist that she would like to have present during the birth as symbols of the values she wants her baby to be welcomed into. We can begin a musical meditation with positive affirmations and visualizations, while stroking the belly-as the video said, a way to send love and support to your baby. We can end by singing a chant, hymn, or prayer as she feels comfortable. I remember my son did not make his entrance (he was four days late) until the very day I told him, Okay, it's time.
Wonderful Kalli. Yes the prenatal connection between mother and baby is so strong. I remember that we had the name William Tyler selected for our second child. We called him that name for months in utero. Then one day at about 7 months pregnant I literally heard the name Michael in my head. I said to the baby, "do you like the name Michael." Baby kicked several times. I asked baby "do you want to be named Michael?" More vigorous kicks. Finally I said... "Are you Michael?" Hardest kicks of all. Well that was it... he had chosen his name and he was Michael from that point forward, although now he prefers "Mike".
At this stage the baby’s brain development has increased. The mother can also feel the baby’s movements more clearly. The baby can squirm and kick as a result to touch. The narrator also mentioned that this is a good time for tummy hugs and loving talks with the baby so I believe this is a great point to start in therapy.
After introductions, I would begin the session by playing soft, relaxing guitar or piano arpeggios (maybe defuse oils or add some sort of waterfall to create a calming atmosphere). I would provide the couple with writing materials and encourage them to write down any emotions they are feeling in the moment whether it’s specific to the unborn child or just something they are feeling as they listen. After which I would encourage the couple share these thoughts aloud. I would maybe follow up with some questions such as: “What are something you would like to say to your baby?” “How are you feeling about the pregnancy?” “What were you feeling when you first found out about the pregnancy?” I would try to be aware not to overwhelm them initially with questions and gauge how they react to the initial music listening experience. After which I would explain that this is a great time to begin singing (or hum) lullabies to the unborn child to create a bond between the mother/father and child. I would introduce some material that they could also take home with them as well. Depending on how open and comfortable the couple is feeling I would end with positive affirmations (or a prayer) while encouraging the mother to gently stroke her belly while providing relaxing harp music. And I would try to incorporate green, healthy, and wholesome images to relax her as well.
I am very interested in the early stages of pregnancy and how the various anxieties and nervous thoughts a mom has may affect her growing baby inside her. I love the idea of beginning music therapy simply by helping mom and dad adjust to the new addition to their family and beginning to instill those positive affirmations, thoughts and meditations to begin to establish a healthy pattern that can blossom down the road in the other stages of pregnancy. I know it may be rather early to begin music therapy at this point, but if a family were open to it this early on, I would love to help mom and dad work through anxieties through use of color therapy and music therapy together through a specialized program that I utilized at a job I once had. I actually used to do some work with a multi-sensory program called the Namaste program which was a sensory rich program for elderly adults with end stage dementia. The idea behind the program is to honor the spirit within a person by utilizing activities and modalities that stimulate the five senses. In thinking of how the Namaste program was used with elders, I thought it could definitely be beneficial to do something similar with families who are expecting a new baby. What if we could set up a room in a family’s home that could be dedicated to a similar “Namaste” experience where when mom and dad enter this room, it is in a sense sacred and meant for them to channel into this calm, healing and positive energy that they can transmit to their growing baby? Perhaps we could work on decorating the room with soft lighting, make sure there are comfortable chairs to sit in and that it is of a comfortable temperature. We can have special and meaningful items that are of comfort to both parents and even other siblings if there are any (things like special blankets, trinkets or items that may be for the future baby). We could get an aromatherapy machine to set up that could dispense a scent that could be associated with the particular color of choice depending on the color therapy suggestion for the stage of pregnancy from the video. An example could be utilizing a fresh lemon scent during weeks 8-12 when yellow is of particular significance. We can create ourselves or search for a slideshow of yellow items like they show in the youtube videos to stimulate the visual sense. We could even eat something like a lemon meringue pie with fresh squeezed lemonade. We could have live or pre-recorded music playing while in this room and mom and dad can practice reciting the affirmations, “I am happy”, “I am cheerful”, “I am allowing the wisdom of nature create a healthy body for my child”, “I am embracing parenthood” and “I am at peace”. We could utilize those particular affirmations and/or come up with some of their own that are even more significant/meaningful to them during that stage. For the touch sense, mom and dad could hold onto these special trinkets and items that have been brought into the room while reciting the affirmations together.
I love these ideas. I think every parent should have a prenatal relaxation room. For some families pregnancy can be so stressful. Even when it is not stressful it is tiring for most. I think it would be important to continue the use of this room during the post partum for self care.
Music Bonding experience for this stage of development:
I decided to choose Weeks 13 – 16 – Healthy Emotional Foundation, as this is the beginning of psychological development. Ideally, music therapy sessions would be beneficial from the first discovery of a pregnancy (and I love the idea above about music therapy in a crisis centre!), but I felt that this time (weeks 13-16), is probably the first time that the mother is starting to feel that the pregnancy is safe and may begin telling more and more people. I also felt like it is probably the time when women may start to seek out pre-natal services i.e. yoga, so music therapy could fit in well to that.
As this is also the time when baby really starts to become aware of the mother’s emotions and really starts to really soak them up, so as the video states, it’s a great time to send love. Their movements are also starting to become stronger and more co-ordinated, doing things like frowning and thumb sucking and by the end of the 16th week, hearing is developed well enough to react by moving closer or further away from things.
With this in mind, I think I would love to create a 4-week group program (no more than 4 per group) that focuses on this particular time. Sessions would begin with a quiet, guided meditation backed by some quiet guitar playing, that would focus on women becoming in tune with their bodies and more aware of their babies, as well as offering a time for relaxation and inward reflection. I would then ask them to acknowledge all thoughts and feelings that come their way, good and bad and either send them to the future or the past, wherever they belong. Any fears and anxieties about the pregnancy would be acknowledged and accepted, in order to help begin processing this feelings to clear space for birth. I would also ask them to meditate on the colour Pink which is recommended for this time and would have previously given each woman an image where the main colours are pink, allowing them something visual to grab on to and choose some appropriate live music to sing and accompany this. After the meditation, I would offer women an opportunity to ‘check in’ with one another and reflect on any thoughts/feelings that may arise. Then we would move into a group drumming improvisation based on this discussion, allowing space to process and physicalize this. The session would finish with another relaxation/journal writing time, where the intention is to send love to their baby, whilst quiet lullabies are being sung. Women would also be encouraged to write down any words/images etc. that they may like to include if they wanted to write a womb song. They would be encouraged to have a follow up individual session/s with me to write their own song. I think this would be an amazing time to write a womb song - imagine having your own song sung to you as one of your very first sounds!
Question – I was thinking about using drumming in the improvisation, but is this something that might be too intense for the baby during this time? I know they prefer lower tones, but wasn’t sure if this may be processed as something more akin to rock music. I feel that drumming can be something so primal and I know that it has had success in reducing people’s perception of pain, so wondered about it’s implications for use during the labour process and of course, during pregnancy?
Rebecca- wonderful bonding session ideas! I tend to stay away from drumming as it is too percussive for baby. Perhaps you could do a vocal improvisation, as it is most important for baby to know his mother's voice. I find with mothers who are uncomfortable with vocal improv I start with a piece of recorded music in the background so they feel safe to explore the sounds of their own voice in the group setting. (One piece I particularly like is Sigma by Secret Garden). Then you can build on future vocal improvisations in the remaining sessions.
I decided on Birth, which was from part 9 as it’s something my wife and I went through and I utilized music therapy during the experience. Our daughter Nua, now 5 weeks old, was born a month early. I was at a psych hospital where I work as an MT when I got a call the rush to the hospital ASAP. MY wife was in labor and everything was extraordinarily hectic. Right away I began to play from a playlist that I played to Nua throughout Misha’s pregnancy. Because I used to play this as we lazily laid in bed on the weekends, the energy in delivery room completely shifted and became calm. I sang along with the vocal sounds and did so throughout most of the labor right through to when Nua was born. Without the implementation of music, the whole birthing process would have been a different experience. The hospital staff commented on how they enjoyed my use of music in the delivery room. Suffice to say, I would encourage any client I am working with to have a playlist that has been utilized previously at the ready in case of sudden labor. Having the familiar songs that are associated by both parent and child with calm loving bonding moments played during a sudden hectic moment, made said moment UN-hectic. Nua knew my singing voice right away and when she fusses I sing to her, which calms her. My wife also has begun to improvise songs to Nua as I do. Commenting on whatever is taking place and sung in a lullaby type style.
Healthy Emotional Development starting week 13. I chose this because I was intrigued with the idea that now the soul is starting to merge with the personality of the child based on experience of the mother's internal states. This is such an emotionally charged time because it is seen as being out of the danger zone. Many new parents hold off telling anyone about he baby until this time. So I would help the mother and father realize that now is the time of enhanced co-creation- the baby is not just developing on its own trajectory, but being influenced in the development of his or her personality by them. The father has an important role because his interaction with mom affects her feeling state which directly impacts the baby. Based on this, I would like to start my interventions in the second trimester- earlier than I had thought before. So I would start using music for deep relaxation for the mother and father and teach them how to do heart rhythm meditation as a foundational practice. At At this stage I would explore whether there was specific music the mother liked from childhood and use that- have mom sing it to the baby as a bridge from her own childhood to the baby. Just to get the singing idea going. Dad could find a song he like to. This also tunes parents into a slower lane, a different time when the pace was slower and hopefully less encumbered. Getting them in touch with "kid" stuff. Pink was also suggested as a meditation color so I would introduce that with the heart rhythm meditation.
I like this idea for a place to start work with the parents. I especially like that you included the dad. I have spoken to many dads who have felt so left out of the process and this is a beautiful way to incorporate the couple into boding with their baby. After all, it takes two to tango! ;) lol
I chose to focus on the first video, which deals with conception. In many of the readings, it talks about how much the reaction to the pregnancy can impact the baby. Since any negativity or stress dealing with the pregnancy can impact the baby's future, it is important to address any issues around the pregnancy early on. I would do either a songwriting or improvisation experience with the parents to start exploring words that come to mind when thinking about the pregnancy. At week six, you can start to hear the baby's heartbeat. At this time, you could do another songwriting or improvisation experience and place it at the tempo of the baby's heartbeat to connect to the baby in a meaningful way.
I chose part 5 which focuses on week 21-24 of pregnancy. The video mentions that baby can now respond to touch and it is a great time for tummy hugs and loving talks. Baby is also more aware of mother's movements. With the "sensorial awakening," I would like to incorporate touch, light, sound and movement to this experience. Have the mother tune into baby's movements at the beginning of session and throughout the session as a way of checking in and connecting with baby. I would start with deep breathing exercises facilitated by piano arpeggios with the mother to calm herself and baby to begin the bonding and connecting experience. We would then move into an easy lullaby songwriting activity. I would sing simple phrases such as "I feel ______. I see ______, I hear ______, I love ______." The mother would fill in the blanks during the song about things she feels from baby, sharing what she sees with baby and what she hears, and what she loves about baby, etc. This can be accompanied by having the mother touch her stomach in various ways - stroking, hugging, lightly patting, etc. I would also have her experiment with different movements such as swaying back and forth. Throughout the session, we would also gradually dim the lights and gradually brighten them at the end of the session.
I chose video #9, Week 38 “Birth”. As this is a point in pregnancy when most women have become increasingly uncomfortable and baby has less room to move, I would create a bonding experience that would begin with a guided meditation where mom and baby both have some time for a calm, relaxing bonding session. If the mom felt comfortable with it, I would include essential oils to further enhance the experience of relaxation. The woman in the video mentioned to meditate on the color peach for wisdom and communication. The aromatherapy diffuser I have changes colors, so I would set that to a peach color. :)
I think something with harp, guitar, or wooden flutes (would a Hapi drum be appropriate?…I think they’re quite soothing) might be nice. I would ask the mom to get into a comfortable position where she feels relaxed and her body is well supported. I would start with cleansing breaths and ask mom to think of an intention for this meditation and repeat it silently to herself three times. Then I’d guide the mom through relaxation starting at the top of her head and working through her entire body down to her toes. At the end, I would have her state her intention to herself and release with a breath anything that is not serving her at this time.
As she opens her eyes, I would ask her to begin gently rubbing her belly and bring awareness to her baby. I would encourage her to gently talk to the baby about getting into position for delivery and staying in the best position for an easy, quick delivery. She would continue to talk to the baby about her plan for them to work together to meet each other when the time is right (or if she’s very near her EDD or past it, she can tell the baby she is ready to meet him/her). To end, she can sing a lullaby to the baby and talk about how loved it is and how excited she is to meet him/her.
Ok- maybe it's just me, but I found most of these videos not very relaxing/meditative. Anyway...
Like other folks have posted- I think part 7 is a great time to base interventions on. Incorporating sensory experiences through light, taste, sounds, etc.
Goals: -Increase mother's awareness of her baby's preferences and activity level -Increase baby's exposure to sensory experiences
Intervention #1- Light Show - Dim lights as appropriate - Play moderate tempo instrumental piece - Allow couples to shine lights directly on belly, as well as across from each other, turn flash lights off and on, change colors (if an option) - Process experience- did you notice responses? what did you notice?
In the middle of a YouTube black hole (after watching meditation videos) I came across a video on belly mapping and how to do it. This looks like too much fun, and I think could be a great exercise for dad/birthing partner) to do for expecting mama. Could be beneficial for oxytocin production, restoring some touch between the couple if that has dwindled, etc.
So in this intervention we would need multiple non-toxic body paints, paint brushes (the lady in the video used her finger, but it was kind of messy), and then maybe some pillows to prop momma up while dad paints away.
In the videos I watched, part 5 began with week 21. The narrator noted that the baby has increased brain development at this stage. I would choose to start the music bonding experience somewhere between the 20th and 22nd week. According to the video, week 22 is a good time for “loving talks” with your baby. I would begin by having the mother (and father, if possible) write a short lullaby-type song for the baby. It seems that short would be best so the parents could sing it often. I would then have the mother and father sing it to the baby, and if desired, I would accompany the parents on guitar or piano as they sang. Both parents (but especially the mother) would be advised to sing the song to the unborn child every day if possible.
ReplyDeleteYes this is wonderful. I too like to start working with parts and baby in utero at around week 20. :)
DeleteI am choosing part 9, Birth. At this stage, Weeks 38-41, mother and baby are preparing for birth. The narrator states the baby has less room to move and amniotic fluid has decreased. The baby sleeps more often. The narrator suggests this is a good time to talk and sing to your baby to calm and comfort him. The narrator also states, “Take advantage of any extra quiet moments to rest up for the bid day.” I would create a bonding experience to bring relaxation to mother and child and to build positive and encouraging feelings for the upcoming birth.
ReplyDeleteI would begin by having the mother speak to baby with words of love and encouragement or anything that is on her mind that she wants to tell baby. I would then have the mother sing to baby while gently patting or rubbing her tummy with the music. If the mother has a song she has sung to baby throughout pregnancy, I would encourage the mother to sing the song familiar to baby. The mother could also sing simple well-known lullabies. I would end with a meditation guided by music. Studies suggest babies respond best to classical music by composters like Mozart and Vivaldi, however, I would encourage the mother to use soft music she enjoys and music that brings her feelings of relaxing. I would encourage the mother to close her eyes and imagine her baby and imagine a successful birth.
Yes what a beautiful prenatal relaxation session that any mother could do at home. Wonderful!
DeleteI chose video 6- Mother-child Bonding. This video meditation focuses on weeks 25-29. During these weeks the narrator states that brain-wave activity is detectable related to sight and hearing, talking and singing brings comfort to the baby, response to sound becomes more consistent with greater focus/attention to the mother's voice, and kicks and movements become stronger in response to stimuli. In my Mother-Child bonding experience I would start with a music listening/relaxation time using a classical listening piece for the mother to clear her thoughts and focus her attention on her baby. We would continue the session with some singing from a selection of lullabies and/or songs that have special meaning to the mother with accompaniment by me on guitar or harp. I would want to give the mother a book of lyrics to some lullabies that she could continue singing to the baby on her own to increase their bonding. We would finish the session with a combined arts activity including making/coloring a mandala using colors of purple (as the suggested color to focus on during this stage of pregnancy) while listening to another classical listening selection. I would encourage the mother to sing/hum/talk to her baby as she feels prompted. I would also encourage her to focus on clearing any fear or anxiety she may be feeling at this time and fill her heart with thoughts and feelings of love, acceptance, and courage.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful session plan. The Sound BIrthing music playlists for pregnancy, or Labor and Birth would work nicely for your listening experiences. I spent 2 years analyzing and sequencing music especially for mother and baby. This was the focus of my doctorl dissertation. If you take the CAB class or the MTACB class you will learn about these. This is my favorite Lullabies Book. You can get a used copy on Amazon.com for $4 including shipping. https://www.amazon.com/Lullabies-Illustrated-Metropolitan-Museum-Art/dp/0152017283/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479736217&sr=8-1&keywords=lullabies+metropolitan+museum
ReplyDeleteI am choosing the first video for two reasons; in the literature researchers mentioned that the baby knows the feelings of each parent in terms of his/her conception. I believe it can be the source of baby's first feelings of acceptance or rejection. Also, in the reading, there was an experience where the baby refused to nurse from the mother because of her initial feelings of wanting an abortion. I want to use film score to either meditate on the feelings of acceptance, or work through parental doubts/rejection. For example, the piece "That Next Place" from the soundtrack of Meet Joe Black includes horns and sailing woodwinds/strings that encourage reflection/gratitude/appreciation. Much like the video, I would encourage the parents (mom especially) to meditate on how happy she is to be in the beginnings of this life-changing process, to let the feelings of happiness, excitement and pride overwhelm her/him. In the song's moments of low tones, let the parents think fleetingly on the bumps in the road/anxieties, for the sole purpose of negating them as the instruments sore again and gratitude penetrates these negative feelings. This experience can be repeated multiple times throughout gestation, at home alone or with a significant other, to shape/reaffirm the fetus' feelings of acceptance.
ReplyDeleteI love this idea- and I can't wait to listen to that piece from Meet Joe Black. I love film score music and I use it a lot during labor. :)
ReplyDeleteI choose the final stage: birth and preparing for birth, weeks 38-41. In my experience, these were some of the most difficult weeks in my own pregnancy. I was anxious to get to meet my son and depressed often. I thought my son would never come out (he was a late arrival). I remember sitting on my birthing ball and watching calming visual movies on Netflix. The ones I used specifically were nature vision. For me, I personally connect with nature, and the images, along with the music are very soothing for me. I would base my bonding experience on my personal experience, as well as the Narrators information.
ReplyDeleteThe Narrator suggest that before birth and when preparing for birth, it is a quiet time. It is a time to relax and talk, sing, act calm with your baby. In my own experience, this was very helpful. There was a lot of "down time".
For my bonding experience, I would suggest the mother focus on imagery that soothes her. For me, it is the ocean or bodies of water. I would tell the mother to watch these images and listen to these sounds if applicable. I would then join with the mother in improvising over these images and sounds. I would encourage the mother to make up a vocal improvisation for her baby. I would have the mother relax, close her eyes, breathe deeply, and be seated on a birthing ball, with her feet firmly planted on the ground. The vocal improvisation would be completely guided by the mother and supported musically by the music therapist.
Afterwards, I would encourage the mother to engage in positive affirmations, like the videos suggested. I would have the mother state positive things about her baby and the upcoming birth. This would all be supported musically, by myself, as the music therapist, while the images continued to play.
Finally, I woulld have the images contain the color peach and spray peach scents in the air. According the narrator, peach represents: compassion, fruition, strength, protection, confidence, and good communication. These are all things that the mother and child will need to get through the birthing experience.
Dorian Campbell
I love your integration of nature and vocal improv!
DeleteI love the detail you inlcuded
DeleteDorian I can relate to your experience as mine was the same with my son and I thought he was never going to come out. :) You are right that can be the most difficult and anxiety provoking time. I remember counting kicks and being worried that something was wrong. Focusing on the quiet experiences of singing and bonding with baby, deep breathing, and imagery are all great ideas during this time. One of the things I work on with some moms is we make a Positive Affirmations Birth Collage. While listening to supportive music we create a large poster by cutting out pictures, images and words from magazines about birth that are affirming. We call this a Birth Power Collage. We talk about how the images and the music are supportive, empowering and affirming of the upcoming birth process. I like the idea of the peach scent- I love peach. Essential oils can be uplifting and empowering and can give energy and clarity. I often use orange as it helps me to focus when I am foggy or tired.
ReplyDeleteBirth Power Collage: I LOVE that!
DeleteMe, too! What a great idea!
Delete6. I choose “ active thoughts” period (weeks 30 to 34)
ReplyDeleteAs we can see that is the period where the mother is in a third trimester and she is able to feel the baby very well. Therefore she is able to connect with the baby through kicking, moving which will motivated and stimulated her to communicate more deeply with her baby and to send some extra positive thoughts, affirmations, songs, little stories, explanation about different sounds that both of them are exposing to, also to meet the baby with siblings through the their voice and touch …
As the baby in this period can hear many sounds and can recognize mothers voice especially, and her touch I will suggest her to take her time for “here and now” moments during the day and to focus and to use consciously activities like - singing and making sweet little bonding song/s, to dance slowly embracing her belly, to move slowly with the baby and to put her feelings and impressions on the paper (or in the pregnancy journal). To follow her reactions and her babies as well. Also I will include father as well in this process .Speaking about recorded music the narrator noted that this is great period for the foreign languages and classical music. Speaking about that… is it necessary to pick and suggest strictly classical music, or we should have to make before some kind of “ music therapy interview” with the mom and according to that make and help her to make a list of songs from other musical genre that maybe she preferred more and listen to? Tnx
HI Nana: Good questions! Yes I always do a Music Therapy Assessment when I work with clients. As I mentioned on the Video Chats last week I usually do prenatal work with families in the context of preparing for birth. We start our work together at some point between 20-27 weeks of development. I have a 3 page assessment that I use with my clients. We also have 40 playlists of different genres of music that are specifically sequenced across 15 musical variables. The playlists are available on the Spotify Platform. We use these playlists in the Creative Arts Birthing Program and the Music Therapy Assisted Childbirth program. The playlists have been created specifically for birth preparation but can be helpful for all stages of pregnancy and post partum. When we work with clients we also give them access to the playlists if they are working with one of our trained practitioners. I have not used the playlists in this course because the emphasis is on live music making, but if the group is interested I could create a set of playlists for music listening and prenatal bonding. :)
DeleteIf you can, please do! I would like to hear your play-list. Thank you.
DeleteI can't wait to look up your playlists on Spotify! And yes, of course I would be interested in playlists for prenatal time, too. :-)
DeleteI'm interested in using recorded music, and especially in working with people from different cultures, finding appropriate music to do work with.
DeleteI have chosen part 3, Healthy Emotional Foundation which includes weeks 13-16 of pregnancy. At this point mom will likely feel she is "out of the danger zone" and ready to bond without fear. Also mom and her partner may have just seen baby on an ultrasound for the first time. I chose this time frame because I think it's when pregnancy beings to feel "real" and this can be a time a lot of emotions show up unannounced. During these four weeks baby begins to hear well enough to react to auditory stimuli and move toward or away from sound.
ReplyDeleteI would begin with a quiet centering exercise to allow mom (and partner) space to check in with themselves and baby. I would provide soft fingerpicked guitar music and a few gentle prompts to help relax. I would then have mom and dad discuss anything that may have come up during their meditative time and use their wants/needs to move into more active music making to engage with baby. We could use soft instruments or just voices to greet baby, and the parents could gently touch baby. I would encourage mom to speak up about any feelings she is having and if she is intuiting anything from baby. I would end with a relaxation exercise that would incorporate a visualization of their baby at this point of development.
Yes Laura I love these ideas. Often this is the time in which mom feels she is out of the danger zone and it is safe to deepen the bond with the baby. Gently soft sounds are so important here. And I like your approach to checking in with feelings... sometimes parents feel embarrassed at this stage about talking to or singing to the baby. I always encourage internal communications and openness to intuition. Great ideas!
DeleteThat is a great perspective to have, that some parents feel like they are out of the danger zone with their pregnancy by this point. That can definitely help them start to bond without as much inhibition. And thanks, Mary, for sharing that sometimes parents are embarrassed to openly talk or sing to the baby at this point. I wonder if that's because the pregnancy isn't visibly obvious by this point? Maybe they feel like they're talking to no one, or talking to themselves?
DeletePick one of the video examples from this week and create a music bonding experience for this stage of development in utero.
ReplyDeleteI am choosing part 7: Active Thought. During these weeks (30-34) the following takes place:
Light: baby will move to the touch a bright light
Taste: baby can react to strong foods mom eats
Tears: baby forms tears now
Good time to explain sounds outside of womb and for family members to welcome baby
All 5 senses are working well
Baby may dream while sleeping
Mom can probably tell when baby is asleep vs awake
Baby is doing deep inhale practice - creating rhythmic breathing
Baby is experiencing rapid brain growth
It's a good time for classical music and music in foreign lanuages
Mom can start to tell baby's favorite songs, languages, poetry and people by way he moves
Baby is aware of mother's feelings and reacts to her moods
Color therapy: violet: balance and stabilize emotions, forgiveness, releasing past hurt feelings, looking to the future, transformation and elevation of mind/body/spirit
Affirmations, I am safe, I am loved, I forgive myself and others, I am enjoying a new, kinder way of being, I am at peace.
Music Bonding Experience: A party of the five senses. Use fresh violet flowers for the smell and color. Have mom taste different flavors/foods and talk to baby about his/her likes/dislikes. Explain what she is eating. Play with light and sound and watch baby's reactions and movements in relationship to the position of them. Have mom create a chant out of her 2 favorite affirmations and sing it repeatedly to baby while massaging her belly with a favorite oil. She could do this regularly, outside of the music therapy session. It would also be fun to create a song that integrates the different voices of the family members (sibling/partner/grandparents, etc.) anyone living at home, introducing everyone, so baby can start to learn the different voices and say hello. Definitely leave space for baby to have his/her turn in the hello song as well! :) It would also be fun to have a special bonding song that each family member sings with baby. This would also be a great stage to create a kick-came song (like call response) with or without accompaniment.
Since baby is practicing rhythmic breathing, this would be a great time to create/practice a breathing song (probably in 6/8) that mom/baby can match their breathing and movements too. Important to pick a BPM that is close to in synch with mommas heart rate (which baby will probably be double time!) wind instruments could be nice for this, especially native american flute.
It could be fun to have a sleep song (integrating the idea of sweet dreams since baby is probably dreaming now) and an awake song for baby, since mom can now tell the difference. Live with mom singing or recorded.
Another fun intervention could be to make a baby playlist of what mom interprets as his/her favorite songs based on his/her movements, since he/she now tends to communicate his/her likes/dislikes. Once the playlist has been created, she can use it often to communicate with her child.
Summer I love all of these ideas! How wonderful!
DeleteI love your note to leave space for the baby to say hello back during the song. =) So sweet!
DeleteI love the song idea where everyone in the family has a part! The siblings would LOVE that! And a short musical interlude for baby to kick for everyone. Great idea.
DeleteLove how you incorporated all the senses! Great ideas!
Deleteomigosh, i typed up the whole intervention and it didn't register and now it's gone. ugh. i have to do this again. it's frustrating, so pardon me if it's not as eloquent as my first go around.
ReplyDeleteFor my intervention I chose part 7: Active Thought
ReplyDeleteThe ideal time for the initiation of this intervention would be towards the end of week 33. The music selected for this intervention is a recording of Mozart's Concert for Violin and Orchestra in E major - Adagio Movement (KV 261). Here is one of many of its recordings : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSrOwiuJ0jg
The intervention I propose will stimulate the baby's increasingly active mind and encourage their development of understanding concepts and language. The intervention will develop breathing for both mother and child and help increase ability to relax and bond.
Mozart's Adagio movement is at 60 bpm and is in common time. As the mother listens, she should be encouraged to either mentally focus on the color Violet (as suggested in part 7 of the video) or the music therapist can provide her with visual stimuli of that color. The mother should practice breathing in for four counts and out for four counts (2 counts of 2 worked better for me, personally, so that's an option too). Engagement of multiple senses can be furthered by encouraging the mother to rock back and forth to the music and/or rub her belly as she breathes, looks and listens.
This intervention could be extended past the music listening and breathing. The first theme, as introduced by the orchestra in the beginning of the music, has a sing song quality and a distinct tune. The mother could listen to this tune, either in the recording or as played by the music therapist until she feels comfortable with it. Christina Rossetti's "Clouds" fits in well with the four phrases of the first theme and also goes well with the theme of relaxation and breathing. The mother will be accompanied by the recording, music therapist or if she is adept enough at an instrument, herself. Singing along to the melody, the mother can use the poem phrased as follows: "White sheep, white sheep, on a blue hill / When the wind stops, you all stand still / When the wind blows, you walk away slow / White sheep, white sheep, where do you go?"
The mother can continue to sing this to her baby for the rest of her pregnancy and into the life of her baby outside the womb.
Love this Christine- Mozart is the perfect choice for babies in the womb. Dr. Tomatis, ENT from France has a program for expecting mothers that uses the music of Mozart and Gregorian chant exclusively. More information can be found at www.tomatis.com. I am a certified Tomatis provider and I completed my training with Dr. Valerie Gas from Paris, a student of Dr. Tomatis. The music of Moazrt is regular and predictable. This is my favorite recording of Mozart for Mothers To Be: https://www.amazon.com/Mozart-Mothers-be-Various-artists/dp/B000V8FRS6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493502815&sr=8-1&keywords=mozart+for+mothers+to+be
ReplyDeleteThe music of Mozart can be used effectively for breathing. I like the idea of the music therapist introducing the themes to the client.
Wholeness and Holiness
ReplyDeleteWeeks 17-20
While this was not specifically mentioned in the video amniocentesis occurs around week 20 during the wholeness and holiness stage. The color therapy suggested was white as a means to generate feelings of white purity, lite, energy and holiness, hope, innocents, and divinity. For a family who has just received a prenatal diagnosis it may be more challenging for parents to focus on these sacred and holy moments of creation because they are going through the grieving process for a typical child.
I would start with journaling their thoughts and fears about the prenatal diagnosis. If words are a challenge I would offer improvisation with Orff instruments or they keyboard to provide a means to express themselves without words. I would share with them stories of joys and growth of children who had prenatal diagnoses and how they were still able to live happy, healthy lives.
I would use meditation for them to meditate and visualize the concern areas and how they can visualize them either healing or growing based on what their prenatal diagnosis is. I would have them use affirmations with positive statements of love and growing especially related to their specific diagnosis. This would be supported with soft music either recorded or live depending on the situation.
A personalized song collection would be developed of songs that help mom to relax and refocus her energies when she is feeling overwhelmed and scared of the unknown. This way she is working to not add on extra anxieties to the child.
Because one goes through a grieving process with a prenatal diagnosis I would want to do several sessions over a 5 week period to help process the different steps and provide support to look forward to the child and ease the stress of the unknown.
This is so wonderful! What a beautiful, non-judgmental way to support parents to be.
DeleteI can't wait to hear how your program develops! So glad to see you have added it to your website. Keep us posted!
DeleteYes journailing and instrument or vocal improvisation is an excellent place to start. I would also recommend mandala drawing.Helping mother and father to process this information and work through the stage of grief and loss for the "normal child" they were expecting will be important. I like to help clients create a personalized playlist as well to manage the stress and anxiety of coming to acceptance about a prenatal diagnosis. Once the client has worked through the trauma and grief of the experience and is ready also begin working on preparing for birth we begin to work with the Sound Birthing Music playlists to help them to focus on what they can do to prepare themselves and help them focus on what they can do for the baby to help make it a positive and less stressful birth experience.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing I might do if I was present during the procedure is prior to the amniocentesis procedure I would do a music relaxation experience with the mother and baby. I would have the mother explain to the baby what was going to happen and that we needed the baby to not be afraid and ask the baby to remain as still as possible during the procedure. If I was not there during the procedure I would recommend that the mother due a self relaxation exercise with deep breathing and music and explain the procedure to the baby before it occurs and to talk to the baby gently while the procedure is occurring, and give the baby reassurance after the procedure.
ReplyDeletegreat idea!!
DeleteNot many people seek out prenatal services (outside of doctors or midwives) before the 2nd trimester, so I chose the 3rd video, Healthy Emotional Foundation, covering weeks 13-16. The video stated that “the subconscious soaks up all thoughts and emotions from you, however fleeting. This is the perfect time to send love, and bask in the love from those around you.” This is a perfect time for the parents to talk through all fears, concerns, worries, and anxieties. As the parents address their baggage, they can talk through what they are experiencing to their prenate, and explain everything to their unborn child. I would facilitate this discussion by selecting supportive music that falls within their musical preferences. If there are words to the song(s), we would do some light lyric analysis. If the music is instrumental, I would choose uplifting and supportive music to keep a feeling of safety as the discussion ensues with themselves and their prenate. If talking aloud is too personal, I would have the parents journal to the music.
ReplyDeleteThis is also the perfect time to write a womb song, to help the parents focus on their anticipation, love, and excitement for the child. Once the song is written, the parents can sing it to their baby regularly. Writing a womb song this early can also be beneficial to help ease the mother’s worries, as she can sing it aloud or in her mind whenever she starts to think about her concerns. Using the song to ease her worries can also help communicate love to the prenate, and combat the negative hormones that come from negative emotions.
One more option could be for the mother’s partner to write a song for the mother. Similar to a womb song, in that it would be short and loving, but meant only for the partner to sing/play to the mother. This will help the mother “bask in the love from those around” her, and will communicate to the prenate the love the parents have for each other. This song would be used throughout the pregnancy to continually communicate love, affection, support, and security for the mother and baby.
Yes Laura this is a great time to work with parents as it this point there is a developmental shift in the mother as she starts to see physical signs of pregnancy (her belly grows) and her fear decreases as with each passing day the vitality of this baby continues to grow and risk of losing baby minimizes. I find that many couples do not contact me prior to 20 weeks. But starting as early as possible with the prenatal music bonding process is good for parents and baby. :)
DeleteIf I begin prenatal music therapy services, I will likely generally begin sessions between weeks 20-25. With the baby's hearing and touch senses well-developed, and having made significant progress in the pregnancy, there are many great opportunities here for prenatal bonding. That said, for the sake of this exercise here, I'm going to chose the first video: Conception and Creation (conception through week 7). The time of conception until week 7 is important as it is the beginning of the baby's life and the time when the mother discovers she is expecting. By week 7, the baby's face has recognizable eyes, nose, lip, and tongue. Baby's limbs are growing rapidly and muscles are developing enabling tiny movement.
ReplyDeleteI'm inspired to reflect on music therapy for this stage of pregnancy because I've seen a great need and opportunity for music therapy as an outreach support service to community crisis pregnancy centers. The mothers who seek out these centers need immediate validation for their fears and acceptance and hope to overcome whatever their concerns are that brought them to the center (financial, relational, health, personal, etc.). In addition, helping them to immediately recognize the dignity of and miracle of their child and begin to communicate with their baby will help them have faith and hope in the future. Music therapy can help with these things! I'm imagining this session taking place around week 6 or 7 as a second visit to a crisis pregnancy center. The counselor or psychologist would assess the mother at the first visit and decide with the music therapist if they would or would not recommend music therapy. Ideally, the first visit would confirm the pregnancy and begin the process of finding practical physical support for this mother (material or financial support, medical support, getting safety at a maternity home if necessary, etc.). The music therapy piece would bring the emotional and spiritual support.
The goals of the session would be to offer an opportunity for the mother’s expression of feelings, validation of feelings, validation of the baby's dignity, an opportunity to begin to communicate feelings of warmth and acceptance to the baby, and provide resources for continuing support until the next session.
-I would begin the session with a warm, sincere, and sensitive greeting between the mother, the father (is present/appropriate), and myself.
-Then I would move into an opening reflection or prayer while playing quiet piano music. Leaving plenty of room for quiet instrumental music to reflect and relax. I might pair this with sacred art or scenes from nature.
-From here I would offer an opportunity for her to talk with me if I sensed that she wanted that time. I would skip to the next point if she wasn’t ready.
-I would move into improvisation with a variety of instrument choices (after showing her how they work). I would stay on the piano to support her playing and let her play the “talking instruments.” If appropriate and after a little bit of time, I might provide some improvisation prompts, such as “how did you feel when you found out about your pregnancy?” or “what would you like to say to your baby?” or “what kind of mother would you like to be?”
-After this, I would validate her responses and gently offer an opportunity for her to discuss anything that was brought up in the improvisation.
-Finally, I would have us sing a few gentle lullabies. I would begin without words (just humming or “ooo”) and sing a few songs inviting her to sing along. When I felt she connected or particularly enjoyed one (or just after some time), I would switch to the words and sing that one a few times.
-We would arrange for the follow-up session. And I would love to send her on her way with a beautiful and simple bouquet of blue flowers, a CD and lyric booklet for the few lullabies that we sang, and a reflective and inspiring prayer or meditation booklet.
What a beautiful session! This could be so helpful for so many women in processing the news of the arrival of baby. I remember when I found out I was expecting our last child at the age of 40. Confirming the pregnancy that day was one of the scariest of my life. Before I even sat down to complete the intake paperwork my medical practice handed me a fistful of medical pamphlets about what can go wrong in pregnancy after age 35. And they immediately labeled me as high risk, even though I had no medical conditions. I felt alone, afraid, and worried for my health and my baby for no reason. I was completely fine and he was completely fine. I think that this would be an amazing program for mothers of any age but it would be especially helpful for high risk mothers. They really need that extra support in early pregnancy. I encourage you to offer this session and let us know how it goes.
ReplyDeleteI choose part 9, birth.
ReplyDeleteAt this point, I imagine I will have worked with this woman through her pregnancy and we will have developed an authentic and trusting relationship.
We would begin this session with the lighting of a candle and some calm breathing exercises to soothing recorded music.
We would sing the womb song she and I will have written in an earlier session, and move into a free improvisation after its completion.
We will discuss her readiness for the birth. What are her feelings about the labor? Does she have a playlist that she would like to have present during the birth as symbols of the values she wants her baby to be welcomed into.
We can begin a musical meditation with positive affirmations and visualizations, while stroking the belly-as the video said, a way to send love and support to your baby.
We can end by singing a chant, hymn, or prayer as she feels comfortable.
I remember my son did not make his entrance (he was four days late) until the very day I told him, Okay, it's time.
Wonderful Kalli. Yes the prenatal connection between mother and baby is so strong. I remember that we had the name William Tyler selected for our second child. We called him that name for months in utero. Then one day at about 7 months pregnant I literally heard the name Michael in my head. I said to the baby, "do you like the name Michael." Baby kicked several times. I asked baby "do you want to be named Michael?" More vigorous kicks. Finally I said... "Are you Michael?" Hardest kicks of all. Well that was it... he had chosen his name and he was Michael from that point forward, although now he prefers "Mike".
DeletePART 5- sensorial awakening
ReplyDeleteAt this stage the baby’s brain development has increased. The mother can also feel the baby’s movements more clearly. The baby can squirm and kick as a result to touch. The narrator also mentioned that this is a good time for tummy hugs and loving talks with the baby so I believe this is a great point to start in therapy.
After introductions, I would begin the session by playing soft, relaxing guitar or piano arpeggios (maybe defuse oils or add some sort of waterfall to create a calming atmosphere). I would provide the couple with writing materials and encourage them to write down any emotions they are feeling in the moment whether it’s specific to the unborn child or just something they are feeling as they listen. After which I would encourage the couple share these thoughts aloud. I would maybe follow up with some questions such as:
“What are something you would like to say to your baby?”
“How are you feeling about the pregnancy?”
“What were you feeling when you first found out about the pregnancy?”
I would try to be aware not to overwhelm them initially with questions and gauge how they react to the initial music listening experience.
After which I would explain that this is a great time to begin singing (or hum) lullabies to the unborn child to create a bond between the mother/father and child. I would introduce some material that they could also take home with them as well.
Depending on how open and comfortable the couple is feeling I would end with positive affirmations (or a prayer) while encouraging the mother to gently stroke her belly while providing relaxing harp music. And I would try to incorporate green, healthy, and wholesome images to relax her as well.
Lovely session ideas Kailee. You could probably create a whole session around each of those questions above.
DeleteI am very interested in the early stages of pregnancy and how the various anxieties and nervous thoughts a mom has may affect her growing baby inside her. I love the idea of beginning music therapy simply by helping mom and dad adjust to the new addition to their family and beginning to instill those positive affirmations, thoughts and meditations to begin to establish a healthy pattern that can blossom down the road in the other stages of pregnancy. I know it may be rather early to begin music therapy at this point, but if a family were open to it this early on, I would love to help mom and dad work through anxieties through use of color therapy and music therapy together through a specialized program that I utilized at a job I once had. I actually used to do some work with a multi-sensory program called the Namaste program which was a sensory rich program for elderly adults with end stage dementia. The idea behind the program is to honor the spirit within a person by utilizing activities and modalities that stimulate the five senses. In thinking of how the Namaste program was used with elders, I thought it could definitely be beneficial to do something similar with families who are expecting a new baby. What if we could set up a room in a family’s home that could be dedicated to a similar “Namaste” experience where when mom and dad enter this room, it is in a sense sacred and meant for them to channel into this calm, healing and positive energy that they can transmit to their growing baby? Perhaps we could work on decorating the room with soft lighting, make sure there are comfortable chairs to sit in and that it is of a comfortable temperature. We can have special and meaningful items that are of comfort to both parents and even other siblings if there are any (things like special blankets, trinkets or items that may be for the future baby). We could get an aromatherapy machine to set up that could dispense a scent that could be associated with the particular color of choice depending on the color therapy suggestion for the stage of pregnancy from the video. An example could be utilizing a fresh lemon scent during weeks 8-12 when yellow is of particular significance. We can create ourselves or search for a slideshow of yellow items like they show in the youtube videos to stimulate the visual sense. We could even eat something like a lemon meringue pie with fresh squeezed lemonade. We could have live or pre-recorded music playing while in this room and mom and dad can practice reciting the affirmations, “I am happy”, “I am cheerful”, “I am allowing the wisdom of nature create a healthy body for my child”, “I am embracing parenthood” and “I am at peace”. We could utilize those particular affirmations and/or come up with some of their own that are even more significant/meaningful to them during that stage. For the touch sense, mom and dad could hold onto these special trinkets and items that have been brought into the room while reciting the affirmations together.
ReplyDeleteI love these ideas. I think every parent should have a prenatal relaxation room. For some families pregnancy can be so stressful. Even when it is not stressful it is tiring for most. I think it would be important to continue the use of this room during the post partum for self care.
ReplyDeleteMusic Bonding experience for this stage of development:
ReplyDeleteI decided to choose Weeks 13 – 16 – Healthy Emotional Foundation, as this is the beginning of psychological development. Ideally, music therapy sessions would be beneficial from the first discovery of a pregnancy (and I love the idea above about music therapy in a crisis centre!), but I felt that this time (weeks 13-16), is probably the first time that the mother is starting to feel that the pregnancy is safe and may begin telling more and more people. I also felt like it is probably the time when women may start to seek out pre-natal services i.e. yoga, so music therapy could fit in well to that.
As this is also the time when baby really starts to become aware of the mother’s emotions and really starts to really soak them up, so as the video states, it’s a great time to send love. Their movements are also starting to become stronger and more co-ordinated, doing things like frowning and thumb sucking and by the end of the 16th week, hearing is developed well enough to react by moving closer or further away from things.
With this in mind, I think I would love to create a 4-week group program (no more than 4 per group) that focuses on this particular time. Sessions would begin with a quiet, guided meditation backed by some quiet guitar playing, that would focus on women becoming in tune with their bodies and more aware of their babies, as well as offering a time for relaxation and inward reflection. I would then ask them to acknowledge all thoughts and feelings that come their way, good and bad and either send them to the future or the past, wherever they belong. Any fears and anxieties about the pregnancy would be acknowledged and accepted, in order to help begin processing this feelings to clear space for birth. I would also ask them to meditate on the colour Pink which is recommended for this time and would have previously given each woman an image where the main colours are pink, allowing them something visual to grab on to and choose some appropriate live music to sing and accompany this. After the meditation, I would offer women an opportunity to ‘check in’ with one another and reflect on any thoughts/feelings that may arise. Then we would move into a group drumming improvisation based on this discussion, allowing space to process and physicalize this. The session would finish with another relaxation/journal writing time, where the intention is to send love to their baby, whilst quiet lullabies are being sung. Women would also be encouraged to write down any words/images etc. that they may like to include if they wanted to write a womb song. They would be encouraged to have a follow up individual session/s with me to write their own song. I think this would be an amazing time to write a womb song - imagine having your own song sung to you as one of your very first sounds!
Question – I was thinking about using drumming in the improvisation, but is this something that might be too intense for the baby during this time? I know they prefer lower tones, but wasn’t sure if this may be processed as something more akin to rock music. I feel that drumming can be something so primal and I know that it has had success in reducing people’s perception of pain, so wondered about it’s implications for use during the labour process and of course, during pregnancy?
Rebecca- wonderful bonding session ideas! I tend to stay away from drumming as it is too percussive for baby. Perhaps you could do a vocal improvisation, as it is most important for baby to know his mother's voice. I find with mothers who are uncomfortable with vocal improv I start with a piece of recorded music in the background so they feel safe to explore the sounds of their own voice in the group setting. (One piece I particularly like is Sigma by Secret Garden). Then you can build on future vocal improvisations in the remaining sessions.
ReplyDeleteI decided on Birth, which was from part 9 as it’s something my wife and I went through and I utilized music therapy during the experience. Our daughter Nua, now 5 weeks old, was born a month early. I was at a psych hospital where I work as an MT when I got a call the rush to the hospital ASAP.
ReplyDeleteMY wife was in labor and everything was extraordinarily hectic. Right away I began to play from a playlist that I played to Nua throughout Misha’s pregnancy.
Because I used to play this as we lazily laid in bed on the weekends, the energy in delivery room completely shifted and became calm.
I sang along with the vocal sounds and did so throughout most of the labor right through to when Nua was born.
Without the implementation of music, the whole birthing process would have been a different experience. The hospital staff commented on how they enjoyed my use of music in the delivery room. Suffice to say, I would encourage any client I am working with to have a playlist that has been utilized previously at the ready in case of sudden labor. Having the familiar songs that are associated by both parent and child with calm loving bonding moments played during a sudden hectic moment, made said moment UN-hectic.
Nua knew my singing voice right away and when she fusses I sing to her, which calms her. My wife also has begun to improvise songs to Nua as I do. Commenting on whatever is taking place and sung in a lullaby type style.
Healthy Emotional Development starting week 13. I chose this because I was intrigued with the idea that now the soul is starting to merge with the personality of the child based on experience of the mother's internal states.
ReplyDeleteThis is such an emotionally charged time because it is seen as being out of the danger zone. Many new parents hold off telling anyone about he baby until this time. So I would help the mother and father realize that now is the time of enhanced co-creation- the baby is not just developing on its own trajectory, but being influenced in the development of his or her personality by them. The father has an important role because his interaction with mom affects her feeling state which directly impacts the baby. Based on this, I would like to start my interventions in the second trimester- earlier than I had thought before. So I would start using music for deep relaxation for the mother and father and teach them how to do heart rhythm meditation as a foundational practice. At At this stage I would explore whether there was specific music the mother liked from childhood and use that- have mom sing it to the baby as a bridge from her own childhood to the baby. Just to get the singing idea going. Dad could find a song he like to. This also tunes parents into a slower lane, a different time when the pace was slower and hopefully less encumbered. Getting them in touch with "kid" stuff. Pink was also suggested as a meditation color so I would introduce that with the heart rhythm meditation.
I like this idea for a place to start work with the parents. I especially like that you included the dad. I have spoken to many dads who have felt so left out of the process and this is a beautiful way to incorporate the couple into boding with their baby. After all, it takes two to tango! ;) lol
DeleteI chose to focus on the first video, which deals with conception. In many of the readings, it talks about how much the reaction to the pregnancy can impact the baby. Since any negativity or stress dealing with the pregnancy can impact the baby's future, it is important to address any issues around the pregnancy early on. I would do either a songwriting or improvisation experience with the parents to start exploring words that come to mind when thinking about the pregnancy. At week six, you can start to hear the baby's heartbeat. At this time, you could do another songwriting or improvisation experience and place it at the tempo of the baby's heartbeat to connect to the baby in a meaningful way.
ReplyDeleteI chose part 5 which focuses on week 21-24 of pregnancy. The video mentions that baby can now respond to touch and it is a great time for tummy hugs and loving talks. Baby is also more aware of mother's movements. With the "sensorial awakening," I would like to incorporate touch, light, sound and movement to this experience. Have the mother tune into baby's movements at the beginning of session and throughout the session as a way of checking in and connecting with baby. I would start with deep breathing exercises facilitated by piano arpeggios with the mother to calm herself and baby to begin the bonding and connecting experience. We would then move into an easy lullaby songwriting activity. I would sing simple phrases such as "I feel ______. I see ______, I hear ______, I love ______." The mother would fill in the blanks during the song about things she feels from baby, sharing what she sees with baby and what she hears,
ReplyDeleteand what she loves about baby, etc. This can be accompanied by having the mother touch her stomach in various ways - stroking, hugging, lightly patting, etc. I would also have her experiment with different movements such as swaying back and forth. Throughout the session, we would also gradually dim the lights and gradually brighten them at the end of the session.
I chose video #9, Week 38 “Birth”. As this is a point in pregnancy when most women have become increasingly uncomfortable and baby has less room to move, I would create a bonding experience that would begin with a guided meditation where mom and baby both have some time for a calm, relaxing bonding session. If the mom felt comfortable with it, I would include essential oils to further enhance the experience of relaxation. The woman in the video mentioned to meditate on the color peach for wisdom and communication. The aromatherapy diffuser I have changes colors, so I would set that to a peach color. :)
ReplyDeleteI think something with harp, guitar, or wooden flutes (would a Hapi drum be appropriate?…I think they’re quite soothing) might be nice. I would ask the mom to get into a comfortable position where she feels relaxed and her body is well supported. I would start with cleansing breaths and ask mom to think of an intention for this meditation and repeat it silently to herself three times. Then I’d guide the mom through relaxation starting at the top of her head and working through her entire body down to her toes. At the end, I would have her state her intention to herself and release with a breath anything that is not serving her at this time.
As she opens her eyes, I would ask her to begin gently rubbing her belly and bring awareness to her baby. I would encourage her to gently talk to the baby about getting into position for delivery and staying in the best position for an easy, quick delivery. She would continue to talk to the baby about her plan for them to work together to meet each other when the time is right (or if she’s very near her EDD or past it, she can tell the baby she is ready to meet him/her). To end, she can sing a lullaby to the baby and talk about how loved it is and how excited she is to meet him/her.
Ok- maybe it's just me, but I found most of these videos not very relaxing/meditative. Anyway...
ReplyDeleteLike other folks have posted- I think part 7 is a great time to base interventions on. Incorporating sensory experiences through light, taste, sounds, etc.
Goals:
-Increase mother's awareness of her baby's preferences and activity level
-Increase baby's exposure to sensory experiences
Intervention #1- Light Show
- Dim lights as appropriate
- Play moderate tempo instrumental piece
- Allow couples to shine lights directly on belly, as well as across from each other, turn flash lights off and on, change colors (if an option)
- Process experience- did you notice responses? what did you notice?
In the middle of a YouTube black hole (after watching meditation videos) I came across a video on belly mapping and how to do it. This looks like too much fun, and I think could be a great exercise for dad/birthing partner) to do for expecting mama. Could be beneficial for oxytocin production, restoring some touch between the couple if that has dwindled, etc.
ReplyDeleteSo in this intervention we would need multiple non-toxic body paints, paint brushes (the lady in the video used her finger, but it was kind of messy), and then maybe some pillows to prop momma up while dad paints away.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZJ9d_U3onc
Cool how fun!
ReplyDelete