04/29/2026
Due to popular demand, I have reposted this reel for Facebook for ease of reading the caption!
Nervous about going into labour and having no clue what to do?
You can practice and prepare using the “Ice Trick”!
What do you do?
Grab a handful of ice and hold it in your hand for the duration of what a contraction would be - approximately one minute. During this minute you will breathe slowly and intentionally; in for a count of 4 seconds, out for a count of 6-8 seconds, and repeat until the minute is over. Repeat 10-15 times, or however long you can handle it (with a minute break in between)
What’s the benefit?
This is fantastic practice to get your body and brain ready to endure contractions. By doing this exercise frequently in the third trimester, you’re helping your brain engage the parasympathetic nervous system (subconscious). Being in a subconscious state while in labour will initiate a deep, calm, intentional, and empowering birth experience. It takes the conscious brain (fear, pain, worry, etc) out of the equation. The deep breaths with the long exhale tells your body it’s time to relax, to let the conscious take a back seat and let your body do the rest. The ice is the discomfort you’re trying to “override”!
So try this out and let me know if you notice a difference or improvement the more you practice.
Tip: make sure you have a timer on or even practice with a contraction counting app. Throw on some relaxing music, a candle, and prepare yourself as if you’re about to meditate. This is the exact same thing you’ll want to do when you’re in labour.
