Yep, pregnancy is nerve-wracking. Hormones are flooding your body, changes are happening, and all of that is a recipe for lots of freak-outs and anxious times. Deep breath. There are several ways I managed my anxiety during pregnancy and they are tips that any mama-to-be can use.
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- Walk. Walking not only clears your mind, but it keeps your hips open and supple (which is what you will need come time for delivery!) Even 10 minutes will help – trust me. Just lace on your sneakers, and go out the door.
- Soundbath meditation. When I was pregnant with our first baby, one of my go-to relaxation practices was soundbath meditation. It’s a meditative practice that can put you into a deep state of euphoria through breath work and ambient music. Though most practitioners would lay on their backs, I opted for the side due to being pregnant. It not only was an incredible anxiety relief for me, but I would also feel my baby getting very active in there, and realized he reaped the benefits of the practice as well!
- Prenatal chiropractor. One of the best things I did was visit a prenatal chiropractor for both of my pregnancies. My chiropractor not only kept things aligned, she helped me know what to look out for in terms of risk, etc. I highly recommend it!
- Doula. One of the purchases we made that was well worth it during our first pregnancy, was hiring a doula. The doula made an incredible difference in lessening not just my anxiety, but also my hubby’s. What many mamas don’t realize is that when it comes time for delivery, most doctors and midwives are focused on the baby. A doula is focused on helping manage mama’s pain, ensuring hubby/partner/etc. is engaged and part of the process, and more. They offer a steady hand through the delivery process. And my doula ended up being the person who coached me through my 2-hour pushing session. I could not have done it without her!
- Magnesium. I’ve mentioned this magnesium drink throughout my site as a must-have for all pregnant mamas. Not only did it keep those painful muscle spasms at bay, but it also kept me relaxed and was great in preventing migraines, too. Must-have!
- Medication. Contrary to what you may believe, there is safe anxiety/depression medication to take while you are pregnant. I was put on an antidepressant shortly after giving birth to our first son, and I continued to stay on that medication (and am now still on it!) while pregnant with our first. If all else fails, call in the big guns!
Any other ideas on how to relieve pregnancy stress? Drop them in the comments below.
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