While the book could use another edit - lots of distracting errors in punctuation, missing /wrong word usage, etc - is still give it 5 stars and would consider it an invaluable read for anyone preparing for labor. The approach it supports is one of mindfulness and mental preparation. It's very positive and calming - refreshing in our culture that tends to make birth seem like a scary, dangerous undertaking. The author - midwife and doula - does not have push one type of birth on readers. She insists that birth can be a positive experience whether it's at home, in a birthing center, or a hospital... With medication, 100% natural, a c-section, or a combination. This is also refreshing, since so many books seem to have an agenda of what they think is the best way to labor. Her openness makes going into labor with a plan, but flexibility for the various routes it can take, something your comfortable with instead of scared of. She shows you how to stay in control of your birth experience, without being regid and uncompromising to the scenarios that may arise. I could not recommend this book - or the accompanying app with daily meditation, breathing, affirmation, and hypnosis practice - enough.
