I think if you're upright it helps gravity, I was painting doors when I was 40 weeks I had to squat on a small footstool because it was to hard to get up off the floor! I was 2 cm at 39 weeks and at 41 weeks went to be induced, had the gel and waters broke and contractions started so was never put on the drip and I dilated very quickly, much to the surprise of the midwife (especially for a first baby, I had the midwives telling me that with number two it will be quicker again). I'm not sure if it was just me or staying active that helped, but I'd give anything a go!