Tuning In: Why It Feels Hard in Pregnancy (and Why You Really Need To)
The very first letter in the THRIVE method is T—for Tuning In. And that’s no accident. Because before you can rest, hydrate, eat well, move, or lean on your village, you first need to pause and notice: What’s going on inside me?
But here’s the thing—tuning in isn’t always easy. In fact, most people tell me it feels really hard.
Why It’s Hard to Tune In During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is full of both inner and outer noise.
On the outside: endless Google searches, advice from friends and family, nonstop appointments, and maybe juggling work or other kids.
On the inside: your mind races with to-do lists, worries about labor, or questions about whether you’re doing “enough.”
Your nervous system often ends up in a state of hyper-alert. That makes it hard to find the stillness required to listen to your body and your baby.
So if tuning in feels nearly impossible—yep, that makes sense.
Why It Matters So Much
Here’s why it’s worth practicing anyway:
For your body: When you tune in, you start to notice what actually feels good and what doesn’t. This awareness helps prevent injury, supports your pelvic floor, and makes it easier to advocate for yourself.
For your baby: Each pause to feel your baby’s movements, or to breathe with them, deepens your connection. This is your relationship beginning.
For your birth: Labor is all about tuning in—listening to your body’s cues and responding in the moment. Practicing now makes it feel more natural later.
And honestly—can you believe we live in a world where we can track contractions on an app, but the most valuable information about your pregnancy is still the wisdom inside your own body? That blows my mind.
Why It’s Worth Practicing Now
Tuning in during pregnancy also lays the groundwork for postpartum. With a newborn, the outside world is LOUD and demanding. The ability to check in with yourself—Am I hungry? Am I overwhelmed? Do I need rest?—becomes an essential survival skill.
Even a few moments a day matter. One breath. One hand resting on your belly. One minute of noticing your baby’s movements. These tiny practices build your awareness muscle.
Tuning In Inside Beyond Birth
In Beyond Birth Baby Steps, we start with Tuning In because it’s the foundation of the whole THRIVE method. You can’t hydrate well if you don’t notice your thirst. You can’t rest if you don’t realize you’re exhausted. You can’t lean into your village if you don’t first recognize that you need help.
That’s the power of tuning in: it makes every other step possible.
So if tuning in feels hard right now—know that you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. You’re human. Start with the smallest step. Your body, your baby, and your nervous system are already speaking—you just need a little quiet to listen.
Love,
Emily
