This is great topic to talk about since many new moms want to know how to take care of themselves during pregnancy. You may be thinking to yourself that you are out of this stage of life so there's no need to keep on reading. But wait! You may know of a loved one who is pregnant and you can do them a favor by passing this beneficial information along.
Pregnancy brings endless changes – new symptoms and feelings crop up, physical side effects abound, and it can be overwhelming, both physically and mentally. Even though you might be busy with work, preparing for baby, running errands, and dealing with everyday life, it is important to take time for yourself to make sure you are healthy for you and your baby.
Here are a few ways to practice self-care during this time.
Rest
Pregnancy can be exhausting – after all, you are growing a person. Your body is working overtime, and you can become fatigued. Take time each day to rest and recharge, even if it is a 20-minute catnap, or even just laying down and getting off your feet. Resting can also recharge your mind, too. You likely have a lot of thoughts going through your mind about things to get for the baby, the birth, questions or fears about what life will be like when the baby comes, and more – finding some quiet time each day can help you de-stress.
Pregnancy can be exhausting – after all, you are growing a person. Your body is working overtime, and you can become fatigued. Take time each day to rest and recharge, even if it is a 20-minute catnap, or even just laying down and getting off your feet. Resting can also recharge your mind, too. You likely have a lot of thoughts going through your mind about things to get for the baby, the birth, questions or fears about what life will be like when the baby comes, and more – finding some quiet time each day can help you de-stress.
Stay Positive
People love telling stories about hard labors and births or insisting that you are going to want an epidural, and it seems like everyone has an opinion on how others should birth. It is perfectly acceptable to ask people not to tell you horror stories about birth – or no stories at all. If you want to hear stories, seek out those that are positive and those that mirror the birth you envision. There is no right or wrong way to birth, and each woman will do what is best for her. When I was in this stage of life, I was late with two of my pregnancies. With my previous history of due dates, most just assumed I was going to be late again, and I had them telling me that. I tried to stay positive and told myself, I am not going to be late. With keeping that positive spirit, I delivered 4 days early. Keep talking to yourself, believe what you want to hear and stay positive in the moment.
People love telling stories about hard labors and births or insisting that you are going to want an epidural, and it seems like everyone has an opinion on how others should birth. It is perfectly acceptable to ask people not to tell you horror stories about birth – or no stories at all. If you want to hear stories, seek out those that are positive and those that mirror the birth you envision. There is no right or wrong way to birth, and each woman will do what is best for her. When I was in this stage of life, I was late with two of my pregnancies. With my previous history of due dates, most just assumed I was going to be late again, and I had them telling me that. I tried to stay positive and told myself, I am not going to be late. With keeping that positive spirit, I delivered 4 days early. Keep talking to yourself, believe what you want to hear and stay positive in the moment.
Get Moving
Staying active is important during pregnancy, and releases endorphins, which help boost mood, as well. A prenatal class is a good way to exercise your body and mind, with its breathing exercises and encouragement of meditation and mindful thought. Walking or swimming are low impact, and great to do with a friend, making it social, too!
Staying active is important during pregnancy, and releases endorphins, which help boost mood, as well. A prenatal class is a good way to exercise your body and mind, with its breathing exercises and encouragement of meditation and mindful thought. Walking or swimming are low impact, and great to do with a friend, making it social, too!
Eat Right
When you are feeling sluggish, it is natural to turn to caffeinated drinks and sugary food for energy. A well-balanced diet of nutrient-dense foods staves off cravings and ups your energy and you will feel a lot better. Dehydration can cause fatigue, so it is important to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Instead of reaching for a snack high in sugar or fat, pack some trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, or a protein bar in your purse.
When you are feeling sluggish, it is natural to turn to caffeinated drinks and sugary food for energy. A well-balanced diet of nutrient-dense foods staves off cravings and ups your energy and you will feel a lot better. Dehydration can cause fatigue, so it is important to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Instead of reaching for a snack high in sugar or fat, pack some trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, or a protein bar in your purse.
Seek Help if Needed
Pregnancy is often touted as a happy, magical time, but several women experience prenatal depression or anxiety. These are not things that you can just “get over” or a normal part of pregnancy; these are serious illnesses that can interfere with your health and pregnancy. It is not a sign of weakness to seek help. If you are concerned about depression or anxiety, or even simply feel “off,” talk with your spouse, family, or midwife about your concerns. Seek out a counselor or support group if necessary. You do not have to go through this alone.
Pregnancy is often touted as a happy, magical time, but several women experience prenatal depression or anxiety. These are not things that you can just “get over” or a normal part of pregnancy; these are serious illnesses that can interfere with your health and pregnancy. It is not a sign of weakness to seek help. If you are concerned about depression or anxiety, or even simply feel “off,” talk with your spouse, family, or midwife about your concerns. Seek out a counselor or support group if necessary. You do not have to go through this alone.
Reduce Stress
We live in a high-paced world and stress can have a negative effect on your emotional wellbeing and your physical health. Try mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and massage to bring your mind into a peaceful state so you can cope better with the busyness of daily life.
Go Somewhere
It might be the beach, the mountains, or sitting out in the sun and soaking up some Vitamin D. Take yourself to a place where your mind and body can be still, allowing you to focus inward and breathe deeply. What every woman needs is a girls weekend getaway.
Pamper yourself
Love a good massage? Or is a pedicure your thing? Book yourself regular pamper sessions. Even a night in with a favorite facemask is a lovely way to treat yourself.
Soak it up
Run a warm, deep bath, add Epsom salts or your favorite bath bomb, and light some candles. To take your relaxation further, play some relaxing music.
Snuggle up
Getting close to a loved one promotes oxycontin, another feel-good hormone important during labor and birth. Make time each day to get your quota of hugs and loving touch.
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