A 10 point guide to maintaining a healthy self and healthy skin during pregnancy
1. Start with Sleep
There is no better medicine than sleep for great health and this is especially true when you are pregnant. It’s a time when hormones drive you crazy, you are slowly growing and developing baby and you need to be your healthiest. Don’t just grab your 8 hour zzzs at night, but also take a least 30 minute nap during the day.
2. Cleanse well
You may be one of the lucky ones, flaunting that coveted pregnancy glow, or you could be faced with a complexion as pimply a high school boy’s. While you can’t do much about the hormonal roller coaster ride, you can ensure that you’re cleansing your skin well every day. This helps to maintain clear pores and removes dirt and makeup which only adds to the problem.
3.Exercise
For many women, exercise is confusing when they are with child. If it can be tolerated, gentle exercises, at least once a day increases circulation, bringing nutrients to your skin. This burst of endorphins will also make you feel happier and help your already interrupted sleep. Try gentle exercises like yoga to keep yourself limber and fit, without causing any fatigue.
4. Stay Hydrated
The cardinal rule of water intake for health and beauty is even more important during pregnancy. Remember, you are hydrating yourself and the baby, so drink up!
5. Eat Healthy
Consume enough protein, vegetables and fiber in your diet. Eat grains, oats, beans, legumes, vegetables in sufficient quantities to keep your nutrition level in check.
6. Use a Sunscreen
Pregnancy is a time when your skin becomes even more sun sensitive, thus making you more prone towards pigmentation. Visit a dermatologist and start using a safe sunscreen to protect your skin right from the get-go.
7. Avoid information overload
There’s no rule that says you must consume every book, podcast and birth video to ensure that you’re doing everything “right.” With so much information available that is not always verified or consistent, it’s easy to stress out. So, cut back on your research. Ask your doctor for specific details and clear your doubts.
8. Pamper Yourself
You are as important as your baby, so treat yourself well! Get that expensive foot massage, get your mom or bestie to cook what you are craving for but remember to indulge responsibly. A pampered mother is a happy mother, so focus on the happiness!
9. Do a Digital Detox
We go on Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, join a mommy group and unaware by our own selves, we start comparing us to others at the same stage. “Oh, she has gained this much weight!” “She goes for hot yoga” and so on. Remember that you are unique and so is your body. Switch off and focus on yourself!
10. Create a ritual
This will help you to calm down, be happy and attune to your bodily changes. Listen to some soothing music, meditate or write down your thoughts and feelings, whatever relaxes you and do it on a daily basis. As much advice as you may get, pregnancy is also a time for self-connection and reflection. Relaxing the mind and body is important for a happy and healthy pregnancy.