How to Keep Your Mental Health Up While You’re Pregnant
Pregnancy is a joyous occasion. You can’t wait to give birth to your little one and be the best mother possible. However, despite how we may romanticize it, pregnancy does not come without its problems. It can impact your mental health. The changing hormones, the stress about the baby, the list goes on. To be your best while you’re pregnant, here are some good ways to keep your mental health up.
Exercise, Even When You’re Late in the Pregnancy
Exercise is just plain good for your body. It helps keep you trim, and it releases feel-good chemicals in your mind that can motivate you to work out. It helps improve your overall mental health as well. Yet too many mothers make the mistake of not exercising while pregnant. They may feel like it will be too risky for the baby. This is and is not true. Obviously, when you’re nine months pregnant, doing some deadlifts is not the best move. However, there are plenty of low-impact exercises that can be performed safely when you’re a mother. Talk to a fitness instructor and see which workouts will work the best for you.
Don’t Stress So Much
When you’re pregnant, you stress a lot. And it makes sense. There is plenty to worry about and question, such as:
· Will my baby come out healthy? Will it even make it to the end of my pregnancy?
· What about my finances? How much will it cost to have this baby? How much will I be spending on food, toys, and everything that comes in-between.
· How will being a mother impact the rest of my life? Can I still work my job? Can I still have the same friends?
The list goes on and on. Some stress can be healthy, but too much stress can have an impact on your health and the health of your baby. In extreme examples, stress may have been to blame for miscarriages.
It’s hard not to stress, but take a breather. Do a hobby you life. Take a walk. Try unwinding in a healthy way. The list goes on. Do not over stress about what you can’t control. If you still find yourself stressing, you may need to talk to a therapist.
Have a Better Diet
You need to start being mindful of what you’re eating. After all, you’re sharing a meal. Obviously, you can still have an occasional treat, but try to eat more wholesome foods like fruits, veggies, chicken, and some other healthy goodies. Eating better can improve your mental health and give your unborn child a head start on life. Talk to a dietitian if you’re unsure where to begin when it comes to changing up your diet.
Get Plenty of Rest
Make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of sleep. You need to prepare yourself for motherhood, anyway. A time where you may get less sleep. Don't be afraid to take some naps, to sleep in, or to go to bed earlier. Drink some herbal tea. Relax in a hot bath before bedtime. There are many ways to tire yourself out and then sleep well.
Speak to Someone
Finally, if you have concerns or questions about your pregnancy, do not be afraid to talk to someone. Your spouse, your friends, your family, the list goes on. This can help relieve your emotions and keep you more emotionally sound.
Also, a counselor may be able to help you prepare for motherhood and beyond. For more information about how you can find counseling online, click here: https://www.regain.us/advice/therapist/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-online-therapy/