Beautiful, Belly and All
Pregnancy is supposed to be a wonderful time in the life of a woman. There is a new life growing inside of you and it's a time of possibilities and expectations. At the same time, many women struggle with their feelings about their body during their pregnancy. Women can gain 30 or 40 pounds during their pregnancy, and it's often hard to look at your changing body and to continue to feel good about yourself and your looks. Here, we offer some helpful tips for feeling great pregnant and for enjoying your body's changes and these nine months of anticipation.
Wear Your Pregnancy
In order to save money and to avoid going shopping, some women will simply wear their husband's clothes during the pregnancy. Others will borrow larger size clothes from a friend, or shop in a regular store for larger sizes. Buying larger clothes will usually make you feel dumpy and look awkward. If you can afford to do so, it really is good for your self esteem and looks to purchase maternity clothes. Maternity clothes are made for your changing figure and they are intended to help you accentuate the positives during your pregnancy. You may even decide to take this opportunity to change your style of dress and to experiment with something fun and different. If you can't afford to buy new clothes, ask a friend who may have more stylish taste than do you if you can borrow her pregnancy wardrobe. Try to see this as a chance to have some fun with your fashion and to enjoy your changing shape.
Pamper Yourself
If ever you had an excuse to pamper yourself, it's during your pregnancy. It's a great idea to get a pedicure a few times during your pregnancy. It forces you to put your feet up, thus taking pressure off of your legs and helping to prevent varicose veins. It's also a good way to enjoy a foot massage and to add some color to your wardrobe with terrific polish. You can find similar ways to pamper yourself with a massage, a manicure or other ideas.
Sleep In
Most women will tell you that they are incredibly tired during pregnancy. Creating a new life takes a lot of energy! Even well before you can feel the baby, your body is doing a lot of work creating this person. Take this as a chance to sleep as much as possible. It will help you to feel refreshed and to look your best during these nine months.
Shake That Hair!
The extra hormones that you have in your body are supposed to help to make your hair stronger and to give you thicker, fuller hair. Have fun styling your hair and concentrating on it. Ask your stylist for an easy haircut that you can maintain without too much effort and that you can enjoy during this time.
Stay In Motion
Exercise is very important during pregnancy - and not just because of your weight. It is important for your heart and for your general well being. While you may feel a bit clumsy at first, you can certainly find some type of exercise that you'll enjoy doing while pregnant, and that will make you feel good about yourself. There are many exercise classes and home videos that cater to pregnant women. Enjoy a pregnancy yoga class, a pilates class, or a great walk each night. Try to exercise at least three times a week and find a program that will nurture you and your body.
Watch Your Diet
While you may have cravings during your pregnancy, this time shouldn't be a license to go crazy with food. Try to avoid gaining unwanted and unnecessary extra pounds while pregnant. You'll have to lose it after the baby, and that won't make you feel good about yourself then! Stay as healthy with your eating habits as you can. Yes, you can certainly enjoy some extra ice cream and some cookies. But try to eat your share of fruits and vegetables as well and keep your sweets and extras to a minimum.
Try to use this time to focus on yourself in a positive way and to look, with anticipation and excitement, towards the delivery of this beautiful baby. The more positive that your attitude is, the better you'll feel about yourself and your process!
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