Description Janet Balaskas led a movement of women who refused to give birth lying down. She has been teaching women about "active birth ? ever since. In this updated and Americanized guide, Balaskas explains how to prepare for and experience a truly natural birth. She leads the pregnant woman through yoga-based stretching exercises and massage practice, and describes the stages of labor and comfortable positions for each, at home or in a hospital. Balaskas has also included a chapter on water birth as well as postpartum exercises. About the Author Janet Balaskas organized the first Active Birth Conference in London. A mother of four, she has written many books on pregnancy and childbirth. She runs a childbirth education clinic. For more information, please visit Balaskasâ website, ActiveBirthCentre.com.