Being pregnant takes a toll on your body, mind, and emotions. So when someone recommends a prenatal massage, you’re more than happy to jump on board.
Massage time is “me” time, and that can do wonders for your stress levels. In addition, there are tons of other benefits for you AND baby. So in case you needed an excuse to book a prenatal massage (hint: being pregnant is reason enough), these 4 benefits can support your case:
1. Pregnancy Pain Relief The combination of everything growing, stretching and rearranging, plus extra weight gain you earn while pregnant can take a toll on your back, neck, and legs. Your whole center of gravity shifts while pregnant, putting extra strain on your low back, hips and glutes. If you’re uncomfortable, pain probably has a lot to do with it. A little muscle or lymphatic massage therapy can help ease your pain naturally and take the pressure off your bones and joints. Specifically, prenatal massage is a favorite for sciatic nerve pain. As your baby grows, its position may put pressure on this large nerve running down your back and leg. It can be excruciating for some women, so any relief is welcome.
2. Better Sleep Is your baby keeping you up at night before they are even born? Insomnia is a common side effect of pregnancy. And while many women feel it’s Mother Nature’s cruel way of preparing you for the sleepless nights once your little one arrives, it doesn’t have to be this way. A prenatal massage can relax your mind and body and put you at ease, which may allow you to sleep better at night. Less stress to keep you awake is always a good thing. Our certified prenatal massage therapists can also give you helpful tips on pillow positioning during pregnancy. We know how tricky it can be to get comfortable as your belly grows!
Better sleep during pregnancy recharges your batteries, giving your body the energy it needs for the demands of pregnancy.
3. Reduced Swelling A lot of women experience swelling while they’re pregnant. Your blood volume increases by as much as 50% to support your growing baby. What’s more, circulation might be reduced and your blood vessels may experience more pressure due to weight gain. Your lymphatic system is also working overtime! Massage can help soften tissues to allow for better blood flow, which in turn can reduce swelling and the pain that comes with it.
We have also have a massage that specifically targets the lymphatic system. If you are suffering from swollen feet, water retention, leg cramps, or carpal tunnel, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) during pregnancy can help.
This body treatment encourages the flow and release of excess lymphatic fluid within the tissues just beneath the skin. Lymphatic massage promotes better oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange improving nutrient flow to you and your baby.
4. Less Stress on the Body Physical stress is a common theme when you’re pregnant. Your body is going through so many changes, both on the outside and internally with your hormones. It’s no surprise that you may feel overworked or stretched thin (literally!). Indulge in a prenatal massage to reduce stress, even if it’s just a temporary escape. When you can feel your best during pregnancy, you’re better prepared to take on your new mommy role with confidence. When mama relaxes, so does baby! Massage reduces cortisol (stress hormone) and increases oxytocin (known as the love & bonding hormone).
Massage also releases serotonin and helps balance dopamine levels. This cocktail of feel good hormones plus a pain free and relaxed body leaves mama and baby floating on cloud 9! Ready to schedule your prenatal massage? Contact our team today for availability.