Pregnancy is a wonderful and exciting journey filled with many emotions. You’re eating for two, planning for two, and dreaming of your new baby! Obviously, it’s easy to get caught up in the new baby’s well-being, but protecting your health is very important too.
Self-care doesn’t always mean spa visits and facials. It is making sure you put yourself first! We are going to give you some easy ways to exercise self-care during pregnancy– no pricey spa days required.
Food Choices
Nourish your body, by choosing the right foods for you and your baby. Focusing on the right nutrients is essential during your pregnancy. Filling your plate with enough vegetables, fruits, and healthy proteins is crucial. Remember, you are now feeding a baby too– so don’t be worried about eating too much. Powerhouse foods like avocados, blueberries, salmon, and spinach are good for the baby’s development. The great news is these foods also boost energy levels!
Since you are going to get much more hungry than before the pregnancy– it is a great idea to keep snacks with you throughout the day. Nutritious snacks like nuts or cheese will keep you from going into hunger mode. Pregnant moms often reveal their cravings for certain treats during a pregnancy. With that said, if you’re craving something sweet or salty don’t deprive yourself!
Permission to Rest
With all the stress of an upcoming newborn and all the changes your body is going through you’ll need to rest. Of course, friends and family will also be asking you pressing questions like, “when do you find out the gender?” or “how many months along are you?” It can feel like you never stop stressing about the next stage of pregnancy, but take a deep breath and relax. It’s important to set boundaries and give yourself permission to say no to anything that doesn’t serve your best interest.
Taking time to sleep, meditate, read or binge watch your favorite netflix series–– whatever it takes to help you unwind is necessary. Try to schedule a rest day during your week or focus on giving yourself at least an hour each day to recharge.
Stay Active
As your baby bump gets bigger– trying to exercise may be the last thing on your mind. However, the benefits of moving your body are unmatched. Even 20 minutes of light aerobic activity will give you those feel-good benefits. There are safe activities you can participate in like walking, yoga, and swimming. Additionally, you can research to find prenatal workout classes in your area– that way you can meet new soon-to-be mommies and feel comfortable as you’re working out. Be sure to modify any positions or strenuous moves if you need to. You may also want to check in with your doctor to ensure your exercise is safe for you and your baby.
Create your own spa day
Why spend the big bucks on a spa outing when you can recreate it yourself? If you have a bathtub you can play your favorite relaxing tunes and take a much-needed bath. Afterwards you can use a face mask or exfoliate and nourish your beautiful skin. Sometimes, with new hormones during pregnancy, your skin texture can change. Taking the time to relax and while also treating your skin is an excellent idea!
Get out in Nature
Being outside in nature is equally as important as taking care of yourself from the inside. It is said that spending time in nature will reduce your cortisol levels and calm your mind. This is also a great way to incorporate your exercise. You can talk a walk or hike in the forest or near a body of water. Breathing the fresh air and listening to the calm noises of the trees is sure to reduce your stress levels. All you need is a spot near your home that you can drive to and some comfortable shoes. If you have a dog or walking partner they can join you too!
Unplug for a day
Let’s be honest, our phones can make us anxious sometimes. From emails, texts, and news– information overload is surely an issue. If you can plan a detox day it can help you reconnect with the people who are most important to you.