Relaxation exercise to practice with clients?

[AmieV]

Anyone have a favorite?
I have to do a relaxation exercise with a pregnant couple for my CBE cert, so I'm using some doula clients as my guinea pigs. I honestly never found those things helpful when I was pregnant/birthing, so I'd like some input on what is generally most helpful. thanks!

[nashvillemidwife]

As an adjunct question, does someone have a recommendation for a video that shows relaxation techniques? I try to use videos sparingly but am looking for a good one to send the parents home with between classes (I teach one-on-one private classes).

[Marisa-Bradley]

I personally like to use relaxation CD's. I light some candles, turn on a CD and let the relaxation begin.

There are so many different relaxation techniques out there- what are you looking for, Physical? Mental? Emotional? You could put on some music and read a relaxing poem. You could have the coach talk to the mom about a peaceful place and she can imagine herself there. You could do some guided imagery... there are so many things you could do! Massage, stroking...