"'No matter how science has progressed, childbirth, in essence, has remained unchanged from ancient times...[it] is the last natural process left to us,' writes internationally lauded obstetrician Dr. Tadashi Yoshimura, 'The fact that it has remained unchanged means that there is truth in it.' The truth and power of birth is the subject of Dr. Yoshimura's first book published in the United States. Yoshimura describes babies born so directly into the arms of their mothers that they do not cry, and women so transformed with pride and passion in their ability that they are joyous and forever changed. Instead of a medical disaster in need of intervention, Yoshimura describes a trancendant natural process that cannot be perfected, and that, when performed through the innate power of women, reveals what he calls a 'mystic beauty.' Full of delightful stories of birthing women and peaceful smiling infants, and insights into his interesting childbirth preparation program including lots of lunges, Joyous Childbirth Changes the World is a must-read for all expectant parents and those who care for them. Yoshimura's incredible clinic serves as a testament to the kind of compassionate birth culture that is possible if we prioritize the health and experience of women and babies"--