Though mothers are naturally conscious about the health of their babies throughout pregnancy, they are often less mindful of their own physical health and, equally important, mental health. Here, Dr Tina Kokalj from Danat Al Emarat Hospital shares her advice for mums-to-be about how to de-stress during your pregnancy and tells us everything you need to know about what to expect when you’re expecting!
Obstetricians are more inclined than ever to educate expecting mothers about the importance of self-care during pregnancy. Stress experienced by a woman during pregnancy may affect her unborn baby’s health, with potentially harmful effects on brain and development even in the early stages of pregnancy.
You might wonder what you what you can do to minimise stress during pregnancy. Self-care practices range from the tiniest trivial activity to life-altering decisions, and you get to choose what is best for you–nobody knows your body and your needs better than you. Yalla suggests new mothers try these seven destressing practices to maintain a healthy mind and body during pregnancy.
- Do more of the things you love with friends and family that make you feel good.
- Get educated, take classes and learn all you can so that you can make educated choices about the care you receive. The more you know, the less you’ll worry.
- Get plenty of rest and take naps. This won’t be quite so easy once baby comes along.
- Listen for positive information about birth and pregnancy. Avoid listening to birth horror stories that people share.
- Be mindful and intentional with your time. Get in the habit of switching off your phone before your baby comes along.
- Learn yoga. The benefits of prenatal yoga are enormous, and the practice alone can keep you fit throughout pregnancy.
- Make a list of things that you are grateful for and try not to dwell on minor setbacks.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
Dr Tina Kokalj explains exactly what you can expect when you’re expecting – from finding out that you’re pregnant to preparing for labour.
