Self care practices during pregnancy
If you follow me on Instagram, you likely know that I’m currently pregnant! As someone who identifies as a “wellness girlie,” I’m super into self care practices that keep us feeling good and grounded.
If you’re currently pregnant, planning on being pregnant, or are just curious, here are some of the things I’ve been loving during my pregnancy.
Meditations and affirmations
I’ve been practicing a few meditations and affirmations related to a positive, empowered pregnancy and childbirth experience. Find someone who you enjoy practicing with - there are plenty of paid and free options online - and practice with them to help keep you feeling mentally strong. Pregnancy and preparation for birth involve a lot of emotional and mental changes and challenges, beyond the physical aspect of growing a baby! There’s a lot going on at all levels. It’s really important to take care of your mind. Learn to filter out any fear-based narratives, and tune into a more positive mindset. This takes some practice and dedication, so it’s well worth taking some time to examine your existing limiting beliefs and working through them.
Daily movement
I took a break from some of my usual activities during my first trimester, but gradually adapted and increased my movement practices bit by bit. I’ve found things that work great for me and my changing body, and I now move nearly every day. It could be anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes of some prenatal yoga or pilates, or a walk outside in nature. I’m also loving using my birth ball to sit on when I need to instead of my standard chair. Movement keeps me grounded, and helps me to feel good in my body. It’s reassuring to know that even a small amount of movement helps keep you healthy on all levels!
Prenatals
This goes without saying, so I almost didn’t include it. But nutrition is super important during pregnancy, so make sure to eat a varied diet, research food safety, and take the vitamins that your health care provider has prescribed. Try not to skip days if you can! :) This way, you can be sure that you have some of the essentials in, even with your changing cravings.
Relax
Take the time to relax and rest your body and mind. NO, you are not lazy if you need to skip a workout or take a little extra time to just be. You’re growing a whole human from scratch, so let’s take the word “laziness” out of our vocabulary. Rest is crucial during this time in your life, so whenever it’s possible, and whenever you need it - listen to your body! Whatever to-do’s will eventually get done. Learn to pace yourself.
Belly care
I’ve been moisturizing my belly every day. I’ve used a lot of different oils (after checking that they are pregnancy-safe, of course!), and my favorite one has been the Osea Undaria Algae® Body Oil. I’ve also really loved incorporating the Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm into my routine when I need a little extra moisture. While genetics (and hydration?) play the biggest part in stretch marks, moisturizing a growing belly is soothing for the skin, and is a good way to check in with yourself, your body, and your baby.
Tune out the noise
Don’t let people’s unsolicited comments and advice about your body, your pregnancy, or your baby affect your mood. Understand that people mostly mean well, and that anything that feels hurtful to hear is mostly a projection based on their own experience. It does not need to reflect on you. This also goes to the online world. You’ll likely hear so many things, and it’s important to pick what works best for you and leave the rest. Most importantly, trust yourself and your health care provider above all else.
Ask for help
Big life transitions can be quite revealing. They’ll show you who is really there for you, and who doesn’t necessarily have your best interests at heart. Lean on your social support system. Put a plan in place on how you’d like to receive support during your pregnancy and postpartum period - including boundaries. You don’t need a whole lot of people, but it does take a village. Family, or friends who feel like family, will be more than happy to contribute to your transition in a positive way. By accepting help, you’ll be in a better position mentally and physically, for both you and your baby.
Acceptance
Accept and love your changing body. Understand that change is a part of life, and that letting go of attachments is the only way to move forward more peacefully. Things might feel bittersweet, and that’s okay. Try not to judge yourself for the way you feel. There are blessings and challenges in every chapter of life, and it’s important to observe and embrace them all. Your experience is your own, so try not to compare it to anyone else’s. Accepting what you’re facing, recognizing it all for what it is, can help you understand what you need the most. And if you need support, find people who are nonjudgmental and accepting of how you feel. You’re not alone!
I hope these tips are helpful! I wish you a safe and smooth journey into motherhood.