"Birth
without Violence" revolutionized the way we perceive the process of
birth, urging us to consider birth from the infant's point of view. Why
must a child emerge from the quiet darkness of the womb into a blaze of
blinding light and loud voices? Why must an infant take its first breath
in terror, hanging upside down as its vulnerable spine is jerked
straight? Why must the infant be separated from its mother after
spending nine months inside her nourishing body? Examining alternatives
to technocentric approaches to childbirth, this classic text shows us
how we can create an environment of tranquillity in which to welcome our
children: a relaxed mother, gentle lighting, soothing atmosphere, and a
warm bath that mirrors the child's prenatal surroundings. Dr. Leboyer's
simple techniques show us how a birth without violence has far-reaching
implications for improving the quality of human life physically,
emotionally, and spiritually.