Everyone loves getting a massage. And why not? Massages soothe tension, release toxins from muscles, and best of all, they feel wonderful.For pregnant women, there is growing evidence that the benefits of massage may be even greater.The results of numerous studies suggest that prenatal massage from a qualified massage therapist not only results in a more pleasant and stress-free pregnancy for the mother but that it offers significant benefits to the baby’s health. Here are some of the many benefits of a prenatal massage:
Relieve Aches and Pains:
Simple muscle and joint aches that we experience from performing everyday tasks are greatly amplified during pregnancy. Being front-loaded with so much extra weight 24 hours per day can wreak havoc on the lower back, especially. Pregnancy massage can soothe those aching muscles and joints and rid them of the toxins, such as lactic acid, which build up when muscles are overused.
Reduce Anxiety:
While pregnancy is the start of a wonderful new life chapter, it also tends to usher in a host of new stressors: physical ones from the changes that take place in the body, as well as emotional ones from the anticipation of new responsibilities and lifestyle changes that lie ahead. A mama massage is a wonderful way to relax, de-stress, and dial back any anxiety that has been building up.
Increase Energy:
Pregnancy can be draining, and unfortunately, there isn’t much of a respite when the little bundle finally makes his way into the world. Any natural method for increasing energy should be considered, and a pregnancy massage is one of the best. In addition to soothing muscles, a good massage therapist can apply specific techniques which improve lymphatic function and blood circulation, naturally increasing energy without the use of stimulants such as caffeine.
Improve Newborn Health:
Did you know that something as simple as receiving a mama massage on a regular basis during pregnancy can result in a better labour outcome and even a healthier baby? And really, if a mother-to-be can create a better, healthier environment for her newborn to develop by doing something that also feels wonderful and improves her own well-being, isn’t it a no-brainer? Recent studies indicate that pregnancy massage lowers “bad” stress hormones such as cortisol and norepinephrine while increasing “good” pleasure hormones such as dopamine and serotonin.
This not only makes pregnancy less stressful and more pleasant, but it decreases the chance of labour trauma and newborn complications such as low birth weight.
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