We started to read one of the books, but it didn't really sink in until we attended our first session of our course. I actually cried I felt so relieved and it made so much sense. After my last birthing experiene I never thought I could feel so relaxed and confident and look forward to birthing so much. I was terrified of going back to the same hospital but the affirmations and a meditation we were given has helped so much. It has also helped my partner. And we have only done one session so far! I would definitely recommend a course. We found our Hypnobirthing instructor through a friend, but you can go to Hypnobirthing Australia website and have a look.