Breathing techniques for labor are about focus, comfort and control. Learning and practicing breathing techniques helps you override the stress response and keep oxytocin flowing and your labor progressing. In this ice bath exercise I am using one of our favorite affirmations (I can do anything for a minute) and intentionally slowing the exhale to turn off the fight/flight response that is triggered by the icy water. When I first get into the water by body and brain quickly react and send me int