When you’re expecting a baby, it’s natural to feel some stress. After all, there’s so much to do, plan, and get ready for. However, too much stress can be damaging to both you and your baby, so it’s important to be mindful of taking steps to reduce your stress levels. Here are some tips to avoid stress during pregnancy and help ensure the health of both you and your baby.
1. Prioritize Self-Care
It’s important to take time for yourself during your pregnancy. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, and take the time to relax by doing things you enjoy. This will help you to stay healthy, mentally and physically, as well as prevent too much stress during pregnancy from overwhelming you.
2. Make Time for Yourself to Avoid Stress During Pregnancy
Setting aside dedicated time each day for yourself can be very important. This is the time to meditate, reflect, or just relax. You may also want to keep a journal to write down your thoughts and clear your mind. Someday your child may enjoy reading the journal you kept while they were in the womb.
3. Accept What You Can’t Control
There are a lot of things that you won’t be able to control during your pregnancy, and it’s important to accept and embrace them. Focus on the things that you can control such as the decisions you make, and don’t let yourself become overwhelmed with everything that can’t be changed. You can choose to eat healthy; you can choose to take a nap; you can choose how to decorate the nursery.
4. Create a Support Network
Surround yourself with supportive people who will understand your needs and provide emotional support during this time. Lean on your partner, family, and friends when keeping yourself sane and healthy during your pregnancy. Finding positive people to spend time with will most definitely help you avoid stress during pregnancy.
5. Reduce Your Screen Time
Too much time spent on the internet, watching TV, or playing video games can be very stressful and lead to more anxiety. It’s important to
limit your screen time and instead focus on activities that make you feel calm and relaxed. Walk away from stress during pregnancy by going for a stroll and taking in some fresh air or spending time enjoying a favorite hobby such as baking or knitting.
Avoiding stress during pregnancy is possible, but it does require mindful and intentional efforts. Take the time to prioritize self-care, accept what you can’t change, and spend time with those who will support you. This, along with reducing your screen time, will ensure that you and your baby stay healthy and happy throughout your pregnancy.
About The Author
Carole K. Arsenault is the founder and CEO of Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny. She has years of experience working with newborns as a lactation consultant, sleep coach, and of course an RN specializing in Obstetrics and Maternal Health. In addition, she is the award winning author of Newborn 101. She has three grown children and loves to share mindfulness tips to friends and parents.
