How to Incorporate Holistic Practices in a Hospital Setting ♥️ From Your Homesteading Doula 🌻🌼

While many people associate hospital births with medical procedures, machines, and a clinical atmosphere, it doesn’t have to be that way for you. Your birth is still your choice, and you can create an environment and experience that aligns with your values— even in a hospital setting.

If you live somewhere where midwives are not readily available and unassisted births aren’t an option, as a doula, I’ve often helped families navigate how to make their hospital birth the best it can be. I believe the key to a positive birth experience lies in making the most of the situation, even within the confines of a hospital room.

Here’s how to incorporate holistic practices into your hospital birth:

1. Set Clear Goals and Intentions

A big part of building your birth plan is starting with the end in mind. Know what your ideal birth looks like, but also stay open to the idea that flexibility might be needed. Setting intentions helps you mentally prepare for whatever happens, while also ensuring that your values are respected.

Ask yourself:

• How do I want to feel during labor?

• What kind of atmosphere do I want to create?

• What are my must-haves in terms of support?

2. Create a Calm, Holistic Birth Environment

Even in a hospital, you can transform your room into a peaceful, nurturing space that supports your holistic approach to birth.

• Candles: Opt for LED candles to create soft, flickering light. Hospital lighting can be harsh, so dimming the lights and bringing in a cozy, warm glow can immediately help create a calm environment.

• Music: Whether it’s a calming playlist, nature sounds, or relaxing tunes that help you focus, music can provide emotional support and block out the clinical sounds of the hospital. It’s a great way to stay grounded.

• Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile can be diffused or applied in a diluted form to create a soothing scent. Many hospitals allow essential oils, but be sure to check with your facility ahead of time.

• Lights Out: Hospitals are often brightly lit, so dimming the lights can give you a sense of privacy and reduce distractions. Ask your nurse if they can help with this when the time comes.

3. Movement and Positioning

Labor can often feel more manageable when you're allowed to move and try different positions. The hospital bed doesn’t need to be your only option!

• Dancing: Gentle swaying or dancing can help you stay comfortable and encourage the baby to move down.

• Birth Ball: If allowed, a birth ball can help you find comfort in an upright position and can ease back pain.

• Standing, Kneeling, or Squatting: These positions can make labor easier and more effective, so ask your birth team about alternatives to lying down during labor.

4. Breathing, Mindfulness, and Affirmations

Mindfulness techniques and breathwork can help you stay calm and focused, reducing anxiety and stress.

• Breathing: Focused, slow breathing helps with pain management and relaxation. Practice deep breathing techniques before labor to prepare.

• Positive Affirmations: Saying affirmations like “I trust my body” or “I am strong” can boost your confidence. Write a list of your favorite affirmations and bring them along to your birth.

5. Advocate for Your Preferences

When giving birth in a hospital, it's essential to advocate for your holistic birth plan. Your medical team may not be familiar with your preferences, so it’s important to communicate ahead of time.

• Have a conversation with your doctor or midwife: Let them know what you're hoping for in terms of your birth experience. Share your desire to incorporate holistic practices and ask for their support.

• Include your support team: Whether it's a doula, partner, or friend, make sure they understand your wishes and are prepared to help you navigate the hospital setting.

6. Stay Flexible and Open to Support

While you may want a natural birth, there could be moments where you need medical interventions. Trust yourself and your body, but don’t be afraid to accept support if needed.

By balancing holistic practices with medical care, you can still have a positive, empowered birth experience, even in a hospital setting.

Your birth experience doesn’t have to follow the traditional hospital route — it can be as personal, peaceful, and holistic as you make it. I hope these tips help you feel more in control and prepared for your hospital birth.

If you’d like more tips on creating a natural pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience, please sign up for my weekly blog updates. Together, we can build a birth experience that aligns with your values.