Pregnant and Stressed Out! Here are some ways to deal with the stress of pregnancy

Whether you're young or old, experienced or inexperienced, pregnancy can wreak havoc on your mind and body.  Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help ease some of the stress. 

Are you getting enough vitamin "Z"?
Joking aside, not getting the proper amount of deep, regenerative sleep can seriously impact one's health, specifically that of a pregnant woman.  Be sure you aren't pushing yourself too hard.  Go to bed early.  Sleep a little later.  And don't be afraid to take a few cat naps during the day.  Being pregnant means that your body is not just working to support one life, but two (or more in some cases).  So give it the rest it needs.  Trying to rest, but finding it difficult due to body heat and abdominal discomfort?  Try taking a cold shower right before slipping into the sheets.  Or, keep a few extra fans by your bedside.   

Time management.
Unfortunately, the world can't slow down long enough for us to get everything done and still have time to relax.  Sometimes you just have to make time.  Prioritize your to-do list and scratch of anything that does not absolutely have to be done today.  And then, if at all possible, rearrange it so that everything you need to do can be done all at once, at the beginning of each day.  This way, once you're finished, you can grab a seat, a box of cookies and not move for the rest of the night!

(** when weeding less important tasks out of your schedule, be firm with yourself.  the rest of the world may not remember to slow things down for you, so you have to slow things down for yourself.  it's ok to say no once in a while.)

Cutting corners can be a good thing.
Don't let the cost of a new baby stress you out.  You could save a ton of money simply by borrowing and not buying.  Maternity clothes, toys, books, and other basic necessities could be just the things a friend or neighbor is looking to get off their hands for a while.  Remember, not everything has to be new.  It may seem important now, but all of those material possessions you've acquired will pale in comparison when the baby finally arrives.

You've got to move it move it!
While you should never strain yourself or endanger your baby by working out at a pace you aren't used to, a few light movements and exercises each morning can easily bring a little extra sunshine into your day.  

Know when to say when.
These days it isn't uncommon to see women working through the early stages of their pregnancy.  However, to do this, you have to know your limits.  Pushing yourself to do too much too fast will only add stress to your life and the babies environment.

Make yourself comfortable.
Get a manicure, a pedicure, a massage!  Nobody really knows how tired you are or how much you ache but you, so step up and take care of yourself!

Have a support system.
Whether it be your folks, your friends, or just your hubby, have someone their for you when you need it.  Let's face it, hormones can be a bear to deal with during pregnancy.  Don't be afraid to express what you are really feeling.  A good support system will understand and help you get a handle on things.

This blog post was provided by Stephanie Parker – our blog writer extraordinaire!

Comments

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