Learn to do less in your last month of pregnancy
Slowing down for most of us can be tough. However as we reach that last month of pregnancy our bodies make it increasingly hard for us to accomplish much of anything. It's as if the mother universe has conspired to make you slow the hell down
As you approach the last month of your pregnancy at around 35 weeks you really feel what it is to be heavily pregnant.
Your belly seems to be ballooning every day, everything is uncomfortable even your beloved bed, it's tough to go anywhere, your shoes no longer fit, your energy is low and you're feeling a lovely kick to the ribs when you do try to relax on the couch. In addition to that every twinge or niggle gets you thinking that labour is in motion.
This can promote feelings of excitement as well as despair and anxiety as you approach your due date. It's time to pay attention to your body and surrender to doing less.
Tips for slowing down:
- If you're still working take a sick day or work from home 1-2 mornings a week so you can allow yourself a morning snooze and not be rushing to get to the office
- Move slowly - take your time when completing tasks like brushing your teeth, eating and getting ready
- Accept help from your partner in cooking meals and doing household chores while you rest without guilt!
- Sit and enjoy a pot of your favourite herbal tea
- Find a tranquil place in your local park and meditate - visualize a safe, easy happy birth to calm your mind
- Head to your closest beach or park and walk barefoot taking in the sunshine and fresh air
- Attend a prenatal yoga class or do some simple stretching at home this will better oxygenate your body, sending fresh blood to your muscles to relieve tightness as it energizes you
- Breathe as you hold your belly and gently rock your baby
- Get to bed early - even though sleeping may be difficult try and get those 8 hours in your sleep bank as you will need it