Such a simple concept seems so foreign, so inadequate to deal with the unimaginable pain of labor and childbirth. Especially in a society where we do everything possible to avoid any form of pain, where the order of the day is to feel good all day every day at any cost. Can relaxation really work to manage labor pain?
I am reminded of an old Frankie Beverly and Maze song- Joy and Pain {are like Sunshine and Rain}. As a child I would hate for it to rain, it usually meant that I could not go outside to play. I later learned that although the rain made things temporarily uncomfortable, ultimately the rain was a necessary part of the cycle of life, essential for the growth of food among other things.
Such is the same in life: Joy and Sunshine are what make life sweet, but it is the Rain and Pain that help us to grow. When we can accept this virtue, many of life's "pains" become mere discomforts that help us to get through a situation.
Next time you experience pain- stubbing a toe, cramps or digestive discomfort etc.- rather than reach for the aspirin, accept the pain, relax and try other methods of resolution, like breathing deeply, vocalizing, or other methods drug-free methods of relieving pain.
