Surviving pregnancy when life gets busy can be tough. When you’re pregnant, not only are you managing every day life, you’re also managing the extra care YOU need while growing a baby inside you. Your wellness could easily be overlooked when you’re caught up in the everyday chaos life can bring, especially certain times of the year.
Here are some tips on how to take care of your pregnant self when life gets crazy.
Stay Active and Rested
Incorporating light exercise into your day helps you stay healthy. Walking and prenatal stretches are great ways to do this. Try to fit exercise into your day without adding another thing to your to do list. I had a toddler during one of my pregnancies, and she kept me super busy so light exercise was not a problem. I was a music teacher during my first pregnancy, so walking around the school in between classes was an easy way for me to get the exercise I needed.
Rest is another way you can take care of yourself. Your body is working extra right now, so rest is vital! Finding ways to fit a few moments of rest into your day can be challenging, but it can be done. Those dishes in the sink can wait a couple hours or until morning. If you don’t mop your floor and take a nap instead, that’s OK. Your house doesn’t have to be perfect.
Make Healthy Eating Choices
Your eating habits can affect how you feel. Eating healthy foods will give you more energy and help you feel good throughout the day. Nutritious foods rich in vitamins and fiber are always a good choice. Try to stay away from excessive sweets, undercooked meats, and unpasteurized dairy products.
Stay hydrated! Hydration is key, especially when you’re pregnant. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Also limit caffeine intake.
Manage Your Stress
The busyness of life can sometimes get overwhelming, especially around certain times of the year or certain stages in life. Learn some stress-relieving techniques that work for you, such as deep breathing, prayer, or possibly prenatal massage.
Limit your activities if you aren’t getting adequate sleep or are too tired during the day. Getting the right amount of sleep keeps your mind and body rejuvenated. It is perfectly acceptable to say no to an extra activity here and there if you are just too tired. People will definitely understand!
Enjoy Your Pregnancy
Remember to slow down and enjoy this pregnancy! Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life. You can bond with your baby before you hold your precious bundle in your arms. Maybe take pictures, write down memorable or funny moments. Just take time to cherish the little things.
Delegating tasks will provide you a little rest and much needed relief. Ask your family and friends to help with cooking, cleaning, babysitting, shopping, or anything else you need help with. They will be willing to help in any way but they won’t necessarily know you need help unless you ask them.
At Journey Women’s Center we offer support during your pregnancy and after the baby arrives. We listen to your story, honor your baby, and provide resources to support you as you walk this journey.