Every person carries an invisible backpack that carries their own unique emotional weight. Stress seems to hit hardest when we are in emotionally and physically vulnerable states. One of the most vulnerable body conditions is pregnancy. While it is one of the most amazing, beautiful and catalyzing experiences for a woman, it can also cause stress and worry. This vulnerability can be found not only in the baby’s need for nurturing, nourishment, support, love and care, but also in the mother’s need for all of these things and more. Mothers need motherhood too.
From one mother to another
I asked my sister to look back at the time she was pregnant with my niece and think about what was the most stressful part of the pregnancy for her. She shared many scenarios that were going through her mind at that moment, all relating to her daughter’s safety and health. She turned around and said:
“After I said all this, I think I wanted her so bad that I was just terrified that I was going to lose her.”
Hearing her fears confirmed how important it is for a pregnant woman to feel safe, reassured, comforted, calm and loved.
What’s in your toolbox?
Having supportive tools and exercises on hand when your mother needs them most can really bring a sense of calm. Here is a list of some essential things to keep in mind while dealing with stress during pregnancy:
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Rest – Expectant mothers need a warm and cozy space to relax and de-stress. Give yourself permission to rest more than you normally would. Take that nap!
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Nutrition – Healthy foods and supplements provide the fuel needed to meet the perceived (and unperceived) physical and mental demands of pregnancy and daily life.
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Routine – A daily routine and sleep schedule can ensure a mother’s adrenal glands are healthy, contributing to a healthier stress response and cortisol production.
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Exercise – There are many pregnancy-safe yoga poses that help ease tension and stress. Yoga squats help stretch the hips. Energetically, we hold emotional tension in our hips, and poses that stretch the hips help us release stagnant emotional energy.
Pregnant mom safe herbs
Herbal formulas for pregnancy are an invaluable addition to a mother’s health and wellness toolbox. There are many herbs that are safe and useful for mother and baby at all stages of motherhood and childhood.
- Lemon Balm gently envelops our nervous system with a soft, warm hug. It calms our stress response and helps center the mind.
- Milky oatmeal
- Passionflower
- Chamomile
- Linde
- Oat straw
- Nettles
They are all safe herbs that also support a positive mood and a nourished and calm nervous system.
Be sure to discuss your options with your midwife or obstetrician when choosing a stress relief regimen, as they know your unique needs. Pregnancy is a beautiful and delicate process. Give yourself grace and tap into the support that surrounds you.
Rebecca Younger is passionate about herbs and women’s health. She strives to plant seeds of inspiration within her community about plant medicine and healthier ways of living. She studied herbal medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver and is a certified Doula through the Matrona Foundation. She is the customer journey leader at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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