Pregnancy can be one of the most stressful times in your life, and it’s natural to worry during this time, but it’s important that you find ways to relax as well. Knowing how to relax during pregnancy might not come easily to you, but these tips can help.
Meditation
Meditating can be a great stress reliever, and it’s perfectly safe during pregnancy. All you need to do is make sure that you’re sitting comfortably, and that you won’t fall over should you fall asleep. All meditation begins by getting comfortable, and changing your breathing by taking deep breaths. Deep breathing is known for helping your body relax. You could begin by just spending five minutes practising deep breathing, or try using a guided meditation video or podcast. Why not try an app like Calm [link: https://www.calm.com/] or Headspace [link: https://www.headspace.com/] to help to guide you?
Have a cup of peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is a life-saving pregnancy drink! It eases nausea, settles your stomach, and as it’s caffeine free you can drink as much of it as you’d like. It also acts as a natural muscle relaxant and sedative, which means that every sip you take can help relieve and ease your stress.
Massage
A massage is relaxing at any time, but during pregnancy can really help get all the tension and ache out of your body. Try having someone at home give you a massage, or once restrictions allow, go to a salon. If you have someone give you a massage at home, make sure that you’re sitting comfortably and that they only use light strokes. Have them start with your feet. Choose a moisturising lotion, and make sure that it’s one you like the smell of. Once your feet are done, have them move on to your back, shoulder blades, and your belly. You could use a lotion with vitamin E, or coconut oil for you belly as these ingredients are good for your skin.
If you decide to go to a salon for a massage, make sure that they offer pregnancy massages. Not every type of massage is suitable for pregnancy, so check with the therapist before booking.
Have a bath
Run a warm bubble bath, sink back and relax. Make sure to keep the temperature at around 38 degrees Celsius, as very hot waters can leave you feeling light-headed and dizzy. Why not add in some products like bubble baths, bath oils and Epsom salts to treat yourself? Remember to always read the packaging of any product to make sure that it’s safe for pregnancy, if you do.
If you begin to feel light-headed, get out and sit somewhere comfortable next to an open window or cooling fan.
Light exercise
Light exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help release stress. Stick to gentle movements, and if you begin to feel tired, take a rest. You should also talk with your midwife or doctor before starting a new exercise regime.
