Yay! Your pregnant!!!
Pregnancy is such a special time in a woman's life but it can present stresses and strains on the body. The development of the new little being brings about many changes to the body which can lead to pain and discomfort. Preparing for the arrival of the new baby is exciting but it can also bring about stress and anxiety, wondering if the pregnancy is going to go well, how will the birth be, will you be a good mother etc.
Massage and Reflexology during your journey can be of great benefit!
Massage In Pregnancy
There is encouraging evidence supporting the many benefits of regular massage in pregnancy. It's not only beneficial for Mum to Be but also for the baby as the 'feel good' endorphins released during the massage are passed on to the baby.
So how can massage help you in your pregnancy?
Massage promotes deep relaxation and can help with sleep problems. Research has shown that women who sleep well during their last month of pregnancy have shorter labours. Massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety by creating a sense of wellbeing to Mum To Be. It can help to balance blood pressure and stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic systems, helping to distribute essential nutrients and fluid to vital organs and the placenta and aids the elimination of toxins from the cells and blood to help reduce oedema (swelling). Muscular tension and the discomfort of sciatic and SPD can be eased and massage encourages the release of oxytocin which is the pain reducing hormone.
Reflexology in Pregnancy
During your pregnancy, your body will go through emotional, hormonal and physiological changes bringing about imbalance in the body. Reflexology is designed to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium. It is a non-invasive gentle therapy whereby reflexes in the feet, which are believed to reflect different parts of the body, are stimulated.
Reflexology has many benefits throughout the pregnancy. It can help to soothe the aches and pains in the back and joints from the growing baby. It can also provide relief to common pregnancy ailments such as morning sickness, heartburn, constipation, sleep problems, mild cramps, haemorrhoids, swelling and high blood pressure (as long as not due to pre-eclampsia). Reflexology is deeply relaxing and therefore can help to ease stress and anxiety.
Reflexology can also be beneficial during labour and once the baby is born. Research has shown that women who have had regular reflexology treatments throughout their pregnancy are more likely to have a shorter and less painful labour. It helps to relax the body in preparation for the birth.
Once the baby is born, the balancing qualities of reflexology can help to support the new Mum through her journey into motherhood. It can help with breastfeeding problems, postnatal depression, digestive issues, muscle tension, sleep problems and energy levels.
GP or Midwife consent is required prior to the treatment and massage and reflexology cannot be carried out until the Mum to Be is 14 weeks pregnant. A full consultation will be given prior to the treatment.