Most moms will tell you that being pregnant was one of the best times of their lives. However, there is plenty to go around in the stress department as well. Being pregnant isn’t easy with all the changes your body and your hormones go through, and it’s even worse if you’re pregnant and holding down a job.
While you’re super excited for every aspect of your pregnancy, from the cravings to the first kicks, and constantly asking your doctor when can you find out the gender of the baby, it’s still stressful beyond belief at times. Stress isn’t good for you or the baby, so read on below for some tips to help you handle pregnancy stress with ease.
Try to Get More Sleep
Sleep is good for you and your unborn child. When you get more sleep, your stress levels go down. There are many benefits to sleep during pregnancy, including helping you stay focused and feeling refreshed when the night or nap is done. Of course, getting more sleep is easier said than done, especially when you’re in the third trimester.
Try using body pillows to make you more comfortable, setting the thermostat at a temperature that is comfortable for you, and eating something healthy a couple of hours before bedtime to combat restless sleep in that third trimester.
Take Five or Ten Minutes for Just You
With all the organizing and planning, it’s easy to find yourself stressed and overwhelmed. You need to take at least five to 10 minutes a day just for you.
Just a simple Epsom salt bath at the end of the day and a good book read in bed can do wonders for you and your baby. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with pampering yourself, you’re about to be a mother.
Take a Swim
Taking a dip in a cool pool, especially if you’re pregnant during the summer months, can do a lot to help with stress and relaxation. Not only is swimming a good form of exercise, water also makes the body feel lighter, taking some of the physical stress of being pregnant off you as well.
Swimming is a complete body workout, so you’re getting exercise, relaxing, and relieving stress, all at the same time.
Schedule a Body Massage
There’s nothing like a full-body massage to chase the cares of pregnancy away. However, it’s important that you get your massage from a professional therapist who’s experienced in working with pregnant women.
It’s also imperative that you talk to your doctor before scheduling your body massage and clear it through them, just to be on the safe side.
Remember, it’s Okay to Say No
When you’re pregnant, things seem to pile up quickly, especially if you’re working and your maternity leave is right around the corner. It may seem that the boss is piling the work on before you leave, so he doesn’t have to assign it to someone else.
Don’t be afraid to tell him or anyone else asking you to do things that keep you stressed and tired no. Your main concern is for your health and the health of your baby, and that’s the bottom line.
Keep the Big Picture in Mind
When you get stressed, sit back and think about the baby that you’re about to bring into the world. Remember, this is just a chapter in your life, the next chapter will begin when you hold your baby in your arms for the first time.
These are just a few tips to help you survive and cope with pregnancy stress. You’re about to become something to be proud of…a mom, so don’t let anything get you down.
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