Pregnancy is a time filled with emotional highs. You'll marvel as your baby grows inside you; there will be days when you'll feel more animated and energetic than at any point in your life; and you'll look forward to watching your little one develop through the years. But there are also low points. There will be days when you feel tired and sluggish; sleep will become more difficult as you enter your third trimester, opening the door to fatigue; and you'll likely experience the nausea of morning sickness.
With these challenges in mind, it's worth doing everything you can to enjoy your pregnancy. The highs and lows will come. Both are inevitable. But a little upfront planning will help you make the most of the experience. Here are a few practical ideas for doing exactly that.
Display Your Maternity Fashion Sense
During most of your first trimester, you'll be able to comfortably wear your pre-pregnancy clothes. By the end of your third month, however, your body will have begun to outgrow them. Take the opportunity to invest in maternity wear that lets you express your personal sense of style. Cardigan sweaters, stretchy tops that highlight your new curves, and a few elegant outfits will improve your mood and comfort at the same time.
Now is also a good time to buy maternity underwear, tank tops, drawstring pants, and other clothing designed to improving your comfort as your body grows. Comfort will become increasingly important during your second and third trimesters.
Reserve Time For Yourself
If you normally have trouble telling others "no," now is a good time to practice the habit. During your pregnancy, you'll likely want to spend a significant amount of time enjoying peace and solitude. Doing so will give you a chance to reflect on the experience of being pregnant, as well as the life you'll enjoy after your baby is born. A lot of moms-to-be start journaling to chronicle the months leading to childbirth.
Rather than immediately agreeing to others' requests for your time, become accustomed to saying "maybe" rather than "yes." This alone will help you reclaim valuable time for yourself.
Treat Your Mind And Body
Pampering is important while you're pregnant since it can have such a enormous effect on your mood. Treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure; schedule an appointment with your hair stylist to have your hair cut; set aside time to enjoy a massage or spa treatment. You can also give yourself a relaxing facial at home using little more than yogurt, a gentle exfoliant, and warm water. You might be surprised by the influence these indulgences can have on your mind and spirit.
Enjoy The Positive Attention
Being pregnant attracts attention. By your seventh month (and likely beforehand), you'll find strangers holding doors open for you, offering their seats to you, and retrieving things you drop. Soak up the attention. Once you give birth to your baby, much of it will disappear.
Treat Yourself To An Occasional Treat
Staying healthy and eating well are critical during pregnancy. Your baby needs certain vitamins and nutrients in order to develop properly. Doctors recommend that moms-to-be avoid junk foods, and stick closely to a nutritious diet that provides the necessary calories and ingredients. But this doesn't mean you should deny yourself an occasional indulgence. While a large piece of cake or pie may be inappropriate, there is nothing wrong with enjoying a small, healthy treat once in awhile. Crackers and cheese, a handful of almonds, or fresh fruit atop a cup of frozen yogurt represent ideal treats.
Give yourself the freedom to enjoy your pregnancy to its fullest. Though you may experience persistent discomfort and other challenges, you'll likely look back on the experience with a nostalgic smile.
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