Why is Massage Therapy an Essential part of Body / Baby care when you are Pregnant?

 

Most of us make a visit to see our Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) at least every 1-2 months for a "tune-up" or sometimes every few months to relax and let go. 

 

As you are progressing though each Trimester, your body is slowly adapting to a growing baby, belly, weight gain and more flexible joints. This puts a lot of strain on the muscles and joints that hold up your posture. Oftentimes body pain can be relieved with a stretch or a heated compress.  Not when you are pregnant!  Don't forget that if the baby is already pushing into your ribs or lower back-as baby grows, so does your discomfort.

 

The benefits of Massage Therapy when you are Pregnant are:

• Reduced stress hormones and anxiety in the body
• Reduced postural discomforts (back pain, headaches, sciatica, carpal tunnel, etc.)
• Reduced swelling in hands and feet (reducing leg cramping)
• Improved maternal mood (decreasing depression)
• Promote neonatal health and development
• Promote awareness in the changing pregnant body
• Bond mother to baby growing inside her (important for 1^st time mom)

 

Which Trimester is safe for Massage Therapy?  All of the trimesters are safe for Massage Therapy.  Minor modifications will be made to accommodate your pregnant body during each trimester (eg. positioning, techniques, pressure).

 

So you have never had a Massage?  Then there is no time like the present!  Face it, once baby arrives- all that "Me" time that you like to take for yourself will turn into "Baby" time.  Most moms find it hard to do self care, but being a new mom is the beginning of parenthood. We all know that parents want the best for their children, but when it comes to themselves its mediocre.

 

Think about it: happy mom equals happy baby!  Please do not think that your baby cant sense stress or fatigue; they are very receptive so make sure that you give you self lots of love before, during and after pregnancy to ensure optimal health and happiness.