Womb to Bloom - Maternity & Beyond

You’re pregnant, and you’re excited! That’s natural and wonderful, but there can be worries and stress that also come along with the anticipation of having a child. It’s vital that you protect your own well being by learning relaxation techniques that you can use throughout the next nine months. If you are working while you are pregnant, as so many women do, you may find life somewhat exhausting. We’ve come up with some healthy strategies for relaxing as deeply as possible in your off-hours, and even at your own desk.

Tense and…Relax! If you are stuck at your desk, and unable to relax, consider using this technique to remove tension from your muscles. You can do it anywhere, without anyone knowing, and it really works. First, take a few deep, cleansing breaths. Then, starting with your toes and working upward, simply tense your muscles for five or six seconds, and then release. You can ball your toes, or make fists, and then feel the tension disappear as you relax your muscles again. These relaxation techniques are proven to work, and they will leave you feeling calm and refreshed instantly.

Stretch! You will feel pressure on your lower back and in your legs as pregnancy advances: this is normal, but it creates discomfort that can make it harder for you to relax as you go about your day. By doing a few gentle squats daily, for a minute at a time, you can strengthen your back and thighs, which will help you to feel stronger and more relaxed. Find a sturdy table to hold on to, and simply squat for a minute or so, up to ten times per day. If you fell dizzy or unwell while performing these exercises, stop immediately and consult your doctor.

Consider Massage: You don’t have to spend a fortune on a massage: you can look into programs at local community colleges or community centers, that offer cut-rate massage to members. You can also look to your partner for massage, and enjoy some intimate moments together as you await the birth of your baby. A massage may feel self-indulgent, but it isn’t, as it is very important that you feel rested and cared for as your baby develops. The father of your baby can provide you with some amateur massage with a lavender-based cream, perhaps before bed, so that you can sleep deeply and really relax.

Swim: Swimming is gentle exercise that will leave you feeling wonderful! Since you are buoyant in the water, you will feel lighter and freer as you move around. You don’t need to exert yourself very much, just a gentle dog paddle will still provide a lot of benefits, and strengthen your muscles for labor. A local pool or YWCA may have special Aquacize classes for expectant mothers, and the classes should be affordable as well. Getting out and meeting other moms-to-be for some gentle Aquacize will provide you with an opportunity to chat and share your experiences of pregnancy with other women who are going through the same thing. Feeling supported by other women during your pregnancy will make you feel happy and positive every day.

Yoga: Prenatal yoga is safe and provides a host of benefits to expectant mothers. Make sure you find a qualified instructor who understands that some poses are better left until after the baby is born. Yoga will strengthen your muscles, and teach you breathing techniques that may ease labor and delivery. You will find you have less discomfort in your back and legs if you do prenatal yoga on a regular basis.

Be Romantic: There is no need to shy away from your husband or partner when you are pregnant, unless you are under special instructions from you doctor. You can still be intimate and close, and physical contact will relax you and boost your mood. Staying close to your partner at this time, and indulging in kisses, hugs and intimacy will be soothing and make you a stronger unit as you meet the challenges ahead.