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Being a Laid-back Mama

Beating Stress Is Good for Expectant Moms

By Katerie Prior

Many rumors exist about exercising during pregnancy. Naturally, many expectant mothers shy away from it. Few women realize, however, that exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. While high-impact exercise and rough sports should obviously be avoided, there are a variety of activities, such as swimming, yoga and spinning, that not only reduce stress but ease back pain, improve both you and your baby's health and make you feel better.

If you like getting in the water, many organizations offer aquatic classes for expectant mothers. "Aquatic exercise is great, because when you're in the water, the normal stress that affects the body, bones and joints isn't there," says Jane Capio, a former aquatics instructor and now associate executive director at the YMCA in Glen Cove, New York. "As your body changes, the less stress you have on it, the better off you will be." Capio says you can find an aquatic version of many popular exercises such as aqua yoga, aqua kick-boxing and aqua jogging.

Even if you can't attend a class, you can still find simple, non-strenuous ways to exercise. A variety of prenatal exercise books and videos are available. Even simple activities, such as taking a daily short walk outside, are good ways to beat stress. No matter what activity you choose, however, make sure you discuss it with your doctor first.

Another way to beat stress is to make time to baby yourself. Even if you have a lot of work to do, putting aside a few moments for yourself is an excellent way to beat stress. Knowing that in a few months she wouldn't be getting any sleep, Werner supplemented her day with naps. "I pretty much slept the rest of the time," she says. "Seriously, I slept every possible moment."

Getting a prenatal massage can also beat stress. Not only can it relieve aching back muscles, legs and other extremities but massage therapists claim it improves circulation and may help you sleep better. If you can't find a massage therapist in your area, a warm (not hot) bath is another way to ease sore leg and back muscles.

Want to see more?

• Yoga: An Ancient Practice for Pregnancy in the Modern World
• Easing Expectant Fears: How to Relax and Enjoy Your Pregancy
• Write from the Beginning
• Talk about it!

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