Congratulations, you’re expecting! Being pregnant is an exciting time, but it’s also a time to take extra care of yourself. The good news is that there are lots of ways to nurture your physical and mental health during pregnancy. Read on for some tips for self care while pregnant and many services across Hampshire that can help you do so!
Self-Care Tip #1: Be Mindful of Diet and Exercise During Pregnancy
Eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly aren’t just important while pregnant—they’re essential. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink lots of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. Also, try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day—this can be a simple walk or swim if you don’t feel up to more strenuous activities. Bitterne Leisure Park offers FREE maternity swimming which is such a fun way to exercise! Natalie at Yogarise offers a beautiful prenatal yoga class which helps stretch everything out which is great for pelvic girdle pain! All these activities are great for self care during your pregnancy.
Self-Care Tip #2: Seek Support During Pregnancy
Having a strong support system is key when it comes to self-care during pregnancy. If you have family members or friends who are willing to help out with errands like grocery shopping or childcare when your newborn arrives, take them up on their offer! It’s okay to ask for help—and it can make all the difference in managing stress levels as your due date approaches.
Additionally, don’t forget about online support groups as well! There are plenty of websites dedicated entirely to pregnant parents where you can find advice from other moms-to-be who may be going through similar experiences. Hampshire Healthy Families is a website that has so many helpful tips, resources, events and groups around Hampshire. They offer advice on where to get help for perinatal mental health and offer workshops on all things motherhood like family nutrition. Take advantage of these resources so that you don’t feel alone on your journey!
Self-Care Tip #3: Stay Connected During Pregnancy
Your mental health matters too! Don’t forget about things like meditation and self-reflection—these practices can help keep stress levels at bay during pregnancy (not to mention after the baby arrives!). When possible, carve out time each day for yourself by taking part in activities that make you feel connected and relaxed such as yoga or journaling. Staying connected with others is also important; use video calls or text messages with friends and family members if being socially distant is necessary in these times. I’ve learned that it is so important to have support during pregnancy and when baby is here. Having a baby is such an overwhelming time in your life and the right support can make all the difference. There’s activities like NCT Southampton, scheduled buggie walks in Barton-on-the-Sea, Lyndhurst has a great baby group called Busy Bees that helps parents socialise and children play at the Lyndhurst Baptist Church Hall. The church also puts on really fun events throughout the year like the Penny Fair! Here is a great list of all the baby and toddler groups across Hampshire that help you connect with others and your children have a blast!
Taking care of yourself while pregnant involves eating well, exercising regularly, seeking support from those around you, and staying connected with others both physically and emotionally. And remember that although being pregnant can be overwhelming at times, it is also an amazing experience that deserves celebration! Prioritizing self-care now will ensure that both mommy-to-be and baby stay healthy throughout the pregnancy journey. Good luck!