One of the most common questions about labor for first-time moms is: "What does a contraction feel like?" Picture yourself in a room full of newly postpartum firs- time moms, each sharing their unique stories. You'd likely hear descriptions ranging from "It's like an intense gym workout that you can't pause" to "Imagine a wave of pressure that squeezes your breath away" and maybe even, "It's like your body is running a marathon without telling you." Yep, the experiences are as diverse as the amazing women who share them.

In recent weeks there’s been lots of videos on the ice hold practice - but it’s missing a key aspect that makes it less effective. STRESS! You need to practice when you’re NOT feeling relaxed and physically rested.

But, let's get real. Before you think, "Ice? Really? How's that going to help me with labor?" let me share a little secret. When I first came across the idea of using ice as a practice tool for labor pain, I was skeptical. The internet had its fair share of naysayers, equating the cold with negative pain experiences. But, I see it from a different angle.

Consider this: very few moms step into the labor room having trained for the intense physical and emotional marathon that is childbirth. Many incredible women find themselves feeling lost in the tide because they've never experienced anything like this. They're unsure how to stay afloat mentally or sketch out a plan for managing pain.

Imagine you're cozying up for a GentleBirth practice, and you're introduced to the concept of holding onto a piece of ice for 60 to 90 seconds. This time frame mirrors the duration of a typical labor contraction. After your icy experience, you explore a variety of soothing strategies—deep breathing, listening to calming GentleBirth tracks, affirmations, distractions, essential oils etc. It's all about discovering what makes you feel strong, centered, and capable - even when you’re not at your best physically and emotionally. Reflecting on these experiences teaches you so much about what comforts you genuinely find effective and what might as well take a rain check.

The sensation of holding ice is but a whisper compared to the roar of labor contractions. But, it's a profound whisper. It reveals how you naturally respond to discomfort, which is very helpful for a first-time mom anxious about facing the unknown.

And here's something to consider: the world of childbirth education has evolved, especially with the push towards digital platforms during recent times. This shift has left some moms feeling a bit adrift when it comes to preparing for the challenges of labor. So, here's some advice from me to you: lean into the discomfort.

Whether you're riding a wave of anxiety and exhausted after a long day at work or basking in a moment of peace, practice your ice holds. It's about arming yourself with knowledge and strategies that will serve you not just in the quiet, stress free times, but during labor too.