Now that you’ve confirmed you’re pregnant, you may be experiencing a wide range of expected and unexpected emotions and physical changes within your body.
Here are part 2 of the 7 tips to prepare you for your pregnancy journey: 5.Your Body is Talking, Are You Listening? You are the only one who lives in your body and knows what it is experiencing daily. At the beginning and end of each day, ask yourself, “how are you feeling body, how can I serve you today?”. I recommend journaling the response you receive and write down any sensations or changes you notice in your body and bring them to your doctor’s attention. No change is too small to talk about with your doctor. A great way to observe and acknowledge what you are feeling throughout your body is to do a Body Scan. A Body Scan will support you in listening to the nonverbal cues your body expresses. Here is a short version of a body scan you can incorporate into your day: Lay flat on your back, on your side or sit in an upright position that feels comfortable and gives you access to all parts of your body. Close your eyes if it feels comfortable to do so. Take a few slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth (as full and deep as possible). Without judgement of self or of what you are feeling, slowly and carefully notice how each part of your body is feeling from head to toe. I like to check in with my feet, legs, knees, stomach and digestion, fingers and hands, chest and heart, shoulders, neck, jaw, face, and head. As you mentally visit each part of your body take a few moments to notice any tension (most common), pain, discomfort, or other sensations. If possible, release the tension by relaxing as you visit each area in the body. I find that many people hold tension in their jaw, shoulders, and joints. 6.Choose you As women, it’s no secret that we often put the well-being of our children and other people before our own. This is the time to ask yourself, how am I striving to live at my most optimal health? Am I prioritizing my health; rest, nutrition, and reducing stressors where possible? Self-care is not a selfish act. When you prioritize your health, your baby, family, and the world benefits greatly. 7. Incorporate Meditation and Affirmations Remind yourself of the amazing, strength, courage, and vulnerability that it takes to do what you are doing. Incorporating Mindfulness and gratitude brings us back to the present moment and out of the busy lives we live or thoughts of fear, anxiety, or self-doubt. Suggested Mindful Affirmations: • I am worthy and deserving of respect, love, care, and honor. • I am doing the best that I can with the resources that I have. • I am worthy and the color of your skin does not deem you less worthy of respect and praise. You got this Mama! [Ife is a Pasadena Native, currently working as a mental health therapist providing therapy to individuals, ages 17-elder adults. She works from a holistic perspective and is passionate about supporting people with their health through food, nutrition, and sound healing.] |
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