Growing a human being is hard work. Whether you’re trying to get through that first trimester nausea or waiting out the last few weeks of pregnancy, it’s always a good time to practice some self-care during pregnancy.
Of course, with all you have to do before your baby arrives, it’s easy to already feel overwhelmed without adding things like “make time for yourself” to the list, even though you know it’s important to take time for yourself and relax and recharge your body and your spirit.
But self care doesn’t have to mean a lavish trip to the spa (though if you can afford it, go for it), or a weekend off. Self-care can simply mean a little bit more time and attention to your regular relaxation methods. Here are three simple ideas:
1. Level Up Your Bath Time
Warm baths are one of the best stress relievers when combined with herbs and essential oils that promote relaxation and healing. Best of all it’s easy to customize your bathing experience with your favorite scents.
Lavender and Chamomile are known for their calming and relaxing effects, making them ideal additions to any evening bath. Scents such as lemon, orange, and eucalyptus can be very refreshing in the middle of the day. Herbs and teas should be steeped and prepared before adding to your bath water, while drops of essential oils can be added without prior preparation. For lots more information, you can visit this aromatherapy during pregnancy guide.
Oatmeal and salts also make excellent additions to any bath. Bath salt or Epsom salt can be added directly to your bath water to soothe aches and pains, reduce swelling, and promote better circulation. Oatmeal can be wrapped up in cheesecloth and added to your bath water to calm and soothe your dry, itchy skin.
2. Try Out and Take Advantage Of Teas & Homeopathic Remedies
With your limits in the use of medication during pregnancy, it’s a great time to learn about and take advantage of the healing and restorative properties of herbal teas and formulas.
Look for chamomile tea or special nighttime tea formulas to help promote relaxation and a good night’s rest. Peppermint, lemon, orange, and other similar teas can help to open the sinuses and provide refreshment. Red raspberries and nettles can promote pregnancy health and prepare your body for labor.
When choosing homeopathic products, stick with well-known brands and suppliers and consult your physician if you’re unsure about any ingredients; though most ingredients in herbal teas can also be found in your food pantry and are therefore safe.
3. Maximize Your Movement
Even though there are days where you want to do nothing but survive your pregnancy, it’s important that you do some light movement and keep your body moderately active.
While there’s definitely no need to tire or overexert yourself, especially in late pregnancy, you can use this time to learn a few easy yoga positions or even better, practice labor positions.
Many women enjoy sitting on a birth ball and moving their hips in late pregnancy, and you can do it while watching TV, surfing Facebook, or doing other activities.
If you can, get your partner involved in practicing labor positions. You’ll both benefit from the time and practice together, which will help you feel more in-tune and connected with each other when the big day arrives.
Conclusion
Taking time to care for yourself can do wonders for your stress level and the health of you and your unborn baby. It’s also a skill you’ll need for when the baby is born.
By really stepping up our ability to find relaxation and rest in the simple moments, we can better care for ourselves no matter how crazy life can get. And after all, the better you care for yourself, the better you’ll be able to care for your baby.
