We all know about the "glow" of pregnancy. That feeling of creating another human being which truly defies all description. That first real, awe-inspiring kick.
But what about the swollen ankles,
the aching back,
the body that feels like it's being taken over by an alien
(a cute bean-shaped alien but alien nonetheless)
and there's nothing you can do but hang on for the hormonal roller coaster from hell.
Strange cravings, having to pee every 10 minutes and never being able to find a comfortable position to sleep! You thought the sleepless nights came after the baby? Ha! Notice how I didn't even mention the morning sickness? Yep, not even going there - although we hear acupuncture is great for treating that particular symptom ;)
All this coupled with an incessant need to clean and organize everything. Because you've never wanted to channel your inner Martha more than right now - when you can't even see your feet.
Sounds like you could really use a massage, here's how it can help...
1. Regulates Hormones. Massage helps to decrease depression, anxiety and stress hormones and pain. This contributes to an overall improvement in your mood. A happy, relaxed momma is beneficial for baby too. These positive hormone changes have been associated with fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of low birth weight.
The abrupt drop in hormones after giving birth can be difficult for many new moms. Add in sleep deprivation and a demanding newborn and the benefits of post-natal massage sort of become self-evident.
2. Reduce Swelling. No one likes feeling like an over-inflated water balloon. Puffy, stretched and...well, swollen. But swelling during pregnancy can lead to more serious complications (such as preeclampsia when combined with high blood pressure). Massage can help reduce swelling and increase blood flow to affected areas. It can also encourage your lymphatic system to get moving which helps get rid of toxins and can reduce feelings of fatigue.
3. Improve your sleep. Need I say more? There's nothing more important than sleep when you're not getting any. Massage often helps you sleep better and deeper thanks to the serotonin, dopamine and endorphins released during massage. A great reason to get a massage both before and after the baby arrives.
4. All those aches and pains. Your body hasn't gone through changes this rapidly since...well you were an infant. And all this growing another human being business comes with its aches and pains. Massage can help with all the growing pains of pregnancy.
Book your prenatal massage today so you can get back to your "glow" and actually enjoy this miracle of transformation.
(705)878-5054 or mcolavecchia@acupuncture-works.ca