Pregnancy is a beautiful time in a womans’ life, but it also brings huge changes – physically, mentally and emotionally. You’re no longer just looking after one person but nurturing and nourishing the little being inside of you. It’s so important during the months of your pregnancy to make sure you’re looking after yourself, after all if you’re healthy and happy you’re in the best position for managing pregnancy and motherhood.
Our qualified therapists provide specialised pregnancy massages that offer numerous benefits to support your journey into motherhood. Here are our top five reasons to get a pregnancy massage and how it can help you during this transformative time.
1. Muscular relief
As your body adjusts to accommodate the growing life inside you, it’s
common to experience muscular strain and discomfort. Pregnancy massage
specifically targets problem areas, gently relieving tension and discomfort
caused by stretched or tightened muscles and joints. Our skilled therapists
use effective techniques to promote relaxation and alleviate pain, ensuring
you can better manage the physical changes associated with pregnancy.
2. Reduce stress and anxiety
If you’re feeling anxious about becoming a new parent you’re not alone!
Through its impact on the body’s nervous system, massage increases the
production of oxytocin and serotonin, which are natural stress-reducing
hormones. It can also lower your blood pressure, promote a sense of calm
and uplift your mood, allowing you to enjoy a more peaceful pregnancy
experience. Take some time to unwind and bring balance back.
3. Reduce swelling and fluid retention
Your blood volume increases up to 40% when you’re pregnant which can
cause stress on the lymphatic system, resulting in fluid retention and swelling.
Lymphatic drainage specifically targets edema, moving fluid around the body
to provide relief from swelling. An incredibly relaxing treatment so you’ll also
walk out feeling lighter and more refreshed.
4. Improve sleep quality
Finding comfortable positions for sleep during the later stages of pregnancy
can be challenging – no matter how many pillows and cushions you use for
support! Pregnancy massage can help alleviate discomfort and reduce muscle
cramps, contributing to better sleep quality. By incorporating regular
massages into your routine, you can minimise sleep disruptions caused by
aches and pains, ensuring you maximise your restful hours before your little
one arrives.
5. Relaxation and some ‘me time’
Becoming a new Mum can often mean having limited time for yourself. It’s
crucial to prioritise self-care and relaxation during pregnancy, taking the
opportunity to nourish your body and soul. And it’s also a lovely way to rest
and connect with your growing baby. Taking an hour to enjoy a massage
post-birth offers the perfect opportunity to rebalance (we can also
incorporate scar tissue release if you’ve had a c-section). As you unwind,
you’ll experience a profound sense of relaxation, while also allowing other
family members to bond with your baby.
At Alara Women’s Health, we offer pregnancy massages (we have a pregnancy cushion so you have the option to lie on your front in early pregnancy should you wish) and lymphatic drainage. Our therapists are fully qualified and trained to the highest standards and each treatment is tailored to your individual needs. They will be able to recommend the best approach for you, plus offer support and aftercare following your treatment. It is recommended to wait until your second trimester to receive a pregnancy massage, please let us know how many weeks pregnant you are when booking.