For Childbirth Professionals

How is it different from other meditation techniques? 

This is a practice of healing the nervous system in preparation for childbirth. It uses head-to-toe progressive release for increase of energy, function, and awareness. This application of progressive relaxation (PR) also focuses on the baby's growing body. Gaining this sense of awareness of the child within creates a deep and lasting bond. 

Progressively releasing muscular stresses improves mind and body function. A calm mind has increased potential for coping with intense sensations and for relaxation between contractions. 

The method is based on Progressive Relaxation techniques developed by Edmund Jacobson, M.D., at the Harvard Medical School and the University of Chicago Medical School in the 1920s and 1930s. A wide range of medical problems were successfully treated by healing corresponding problems in the nervous system. The method was then further developed in the University of Massachusetts Medical Center medicine/meditation program beginning in 1979.

In the present use for childbirth, refined through nearly 20 years of application, the practice slowly brings attention through the whole body, releasing muscle system tension that restricts nervous system function, offering prenatal bonding and potential for optimal fetal development.

Who can take the training?

Most teachers of the Calm Birth® method are childbirth professionals – labor and delivery nurses, midwives, doctors, doulas, and childbirth educators – but we will train anyone we believe could be a good teacher of childbirth meditation or who wants to learn meditation for the sake of their health and life.

What does it involve?

Calm Birth teacher training courses are dynamic, evidence-based, and praxis-oriented. We cover the scientific and spiritual roots of the practices, establish a meditation practice for ourselves, and get practice and feedback in teaching the techniques. Most importantly, we connect to a global community of caring people who will carry the same knowledge from this course.

How long is it?

The course is self-paced over the course of eight weeks. You will be in an intimate cohort of other professionals around the world, which meets bi-weekly for two hours for discussions and practice. The time for those meetings will be determined based on availability.

Can I become a Calm Birth instructor?

After you’ve completed your training, you will be able to teach Calm Birth in your community and you’ll be on your way to becoming a certified Calm Birth instructor. You’ll also be able to practice these techniques to enhance your own wellbeing.

How much does it cost?

$500 for an individual; We do have some needs-based scholarships available. We prioritize people from or serving at-risk communities, so if you would like to apply, please do so here.

Ready to get started?

We look forward to working with you! Click below to sign up for our teacher trainings, contact us with more questions, or to browse our meditation audioguides. The next training starts in June!