During pregnancy, your body will experience numerous changes. Each of these changes have a specific purpose, although, some can have very unpleasant side effects. Understanding these changes as a natural part of a healthy pregnancy may help you to take solace in the fact that your baby is developing exactly as he or she should.

The Waves of Change

During pregnancy, the amount of change you will experience is nothing short of breathtaking. The amount of changes are so numerous, it is hard to actually put a number on them. From the time it takes for your nails and hair to grow, to changing vision and memory retention – changes are sure to come. But, some of these changes carry with them some unpleasant side effects. Things such as morning sickness, heartburn, dizziness or headaches are not uncommon experiences during a normal and healthy pregnancy. When you are uncomfortable, the trick is to find a sense of calm among the change.

Finding Time for Yourself

Finding time for yourself is a crucial part of remaining stress-free during your pregnancy. Remember, keeping yourself calm and relaxed is not only going to make you feel better, it is going to keep your baby happy and healthy, as well. It is important to find time for yourself in day to day life, but being pregnant really adds an exclamation point to that statement! Here are a few things you can do to help find that much needed “me” time.

• Talk to your partner about arranging certain times of the day where they may be able to “take the reins”, so to speak. This will give you time throughout the day to just be alone, or be without responsibility. Believe me, you have enough on your plate as it is!
• Keep a clear (and doable) schedule. Life happens, and sometimes we can’t do anything to change what is happening at the moment. But keeping a schedule allows you to have that area where you “pencil yourself in”. While sometimes circumstances may prevent a much-needed pampering, it does make room for personal time more often than not.
• Plan extra time around your doctor’s appointments, or pretty much any appointment, so you can have just a little extra time to focus on things you want to. Even if you love to read baby magazines, watch ultrasound videos on YouTube, or talk with your partner about the impending arrival –planning extra time around already important events or appointments may be the way to gain a little extra time for yourself.

Finding Methods of Meditation

Meditation can be a big help when it comes to finding a sense of calm. Along with the physical changes come a great many emotional changes, as well. Because of this, it is very important that you find time to meditate. This, by the way, does not mean that you have to change or find a new religion, lol. Meditation is an exercise that promotes relaxation, calm, and serenity.

You simply need to be in a quiet place, where you can clear your mind. You can sit on the floor on a bunch of pillows, and simply focus on the quiet. Concentrate on the darkness with your eyes closed. Don’t tell yourself everything will be OK, just know that it will be. Focus on knowing. Not telling yourself anything. Cease any inner monologue, and just be.

Focusing on your breathing is an excellent way to begin. Remember to breathe in through your nose, briefly hold it, and then exhale through your mouth. Keep in mind that breathing in through your nose represents a filter. It allows only positivity to enter your body. It is the life force of all things. You exhale negativity, expelling it from your body.

In any case, finding any reason and any time to relax is imperative during pregnancy. You are creating a life! You owe it to yourself to enjoy this time by remaining happy as possible, and stress-free!