Getting ready to have a baby can be a very exciting time. However, coping with pregnancy symptoms and making plans for this massive change to your life can also be overwhelming!
 
It’s normal to be stressed about the changes that are happening to your body and your life. But if you find yourself anxious and stressed every day, ask your doctor for help. Continued stress can increase the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
 
Since it’s important to take care of your mental health during pregnancy, we’re sharing seven ways you can cut back on pregnancy stress!
 
1. Try Light Exercise
Many pregnant women feel like their mood is all over the place. This is because pregnancy causes hormone levels to get all out of whack. What can help is some light exercise. As you work out, chemicals (called endorphins) which will can make you feel happier. That’s why exercising lifts your spirits!
 
Exercising during your pregnancy should be safe, but make sure to check with your doctor. Aerobic exercises, swimming, prenatal yoga, and brisk walking are right for you. Your OB-GYN may advise against strenuous exercise unless you followed a demanding exercise routine before you got pregnant.
 
2. Focus on Your Baby
It’s good for both you and your baby if you try to relax, so don’t feel guilty about taking some time to yourself. Whenever you get a minute, pause to think about your growing baby. Your baby can hear your voice from about 23 weeks, so you might sing, chat, or read to him or her. It’s a great way to bond with your baby, and may help you to feel more positive about your pregnancy.
 
3. Always Speak Up
Your worries may be concerning the well-being of your baby. If this is your first pregnancy, you probably have noticed some unusual changes. Sitting and letting your worries get the best of you isn’t going to help.
 
Don’t be nervous to admit how you’re really feeling. By being honest, you’ll be more likely to get the support you need.
 
Also, make sure to talk it out with your partner and have him come with you to doctor’s visits. Many pregnant women have felt reassured after bringing their concerns to their doctor.
 
Discussing your worries with other moms-to be at pregnancy classes can also prove helpful. By speaking up and being honest, you might find that many other pregnant women are facing the same issues as you!
 
4. Get Enough Sleep
There is no substitute for quality sleep during pregnancy. So, listen to your own needs. When you feel tired, rest or nap. You may find it helpful to go to bed earlier than you usually do. We all know that adequate sleep is crucial for good health. Well, it’s even more essential in pregnancy.
 
If obligations are getting in the way of a good night’s sleep, remember to ask for help. Most women experience sleep issues during pregnancy, caused by nausea, breast tenderness, heartburn, and vivid dreams. Many have found relief in the form of what’s commonly called a “pregnancy pillow.” This body pillow is C-shaped (or U-shaped) and was designed to provide you with support where it’s needed.
 
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eating well is very important in pregnancy because you want to avoid a drop in your blood sugar level. If your blood sugar level drops, you might feel exhausted and irritable. To prevent this, make sure to eat regular meals.
 
Pregnancy can definitely affect your food preferences and eating habits: just think about the stereotypical pregnant woman who craves ice cream and pickles! At the same time, you need to try to eat healthily and drink six to eight glasses of water per day. Get tips on eating healthy during pregnancy here: “Eating for TWO!? Tips for Staying Healthy!”
 
6. Use Complementary Therapies
There are additional therapies that can help relieve your pregnancy stress. Laughter and massage therapies top the list. A massage will take your stress and help you relax. Visit your local spa to get a full-body prenatal massage from professionals. Just ensure your massage therapist has experience with pregnant women so that you can relax safely.
 
Laughter is a great way to truly relax and feel at peace. Try meeting up with some friends to catch a funny movie or stand-up comedy show. In addition, aromatherapy is also wonderful for helping you feel calm and very relaxed.
 
7. Try Mindfulness
Mindfulness allows you to focus on one moment at a time. It prevents you from overthinking about the past or future. This is because mindfulness gets you so engrossed in the present and leaves no room for anxiety or negative thoughts. It lets you feel each moment; the beauty of your surroundings, your current situation, and your entire life. It would help you find happiness in things as simple as the wind rushing on your face or your baby’s kicks.
 
Getting started with mindfulness would help you a lot. To practice mindfulness, the key is to pay attention. Take time to meditate on your thoughts per time and the things in your present surroundings.
 
We hope that these tips on relieving pregnancy stress give you some relief! Did we miss anything? Please share your favorite way of reducing pregnancy stress in the comments!