
Pregnancy Massage
During pregnancy our bodies go through major changes, such as structural, physiological, psychological, spiritual and social changes. Some of these changes may produce discomforts and emotional problems. Carrying a baby inside you changes your centre of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, shoulder and abdominal muscles. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments, so that your pelvic joints are less stable and changes your psoture, pulling your pelvis forward. Add that to the extra weight you're carrying and you may find you've got an aching lower back. Holistic massage can ease these discomforts and give you a warm and wellbeing feeling, helping the mother to be to adjust to these changes.
Benefits of holistic massage
Reduce physical discomforts, e.g. muscle spasm, cramp, tired legs, tension, back ache, etc.
Reduce oedema and swelling by increasing circulation and removing metabolic waste products
Helps emotional problems, e.g. anxiety, depression, fear, restless, insomnia
Reduce stress and promote relaxation
Ease digestive problems
Beneficial in labour and post-natal care
What to expect with a holistic massage
For your first treatment a full consultation will take place, where your needs and preferences will be taken into consideration, as well as taking a full medical
case history.
Most women find it uncomfortable to lie facedown right from the start of pregnancy because of their tender, swollen breast, you also cannot lay facedown on a traditional massage table once your belly has started to grow. It is unadvisable for you to lay flat on your back either, particularly once you are past mid-pregnancy, because of the weight of your uterus puts too much pressure on the veins that return blood from your legs to your heart. As a trained prenatal therapist, great care is taken with comfort and positioning with you lying on your side fully supported with pillow wedges and cushions. Or if you prefer, I can use a chair or a "birth" or massage ball for you to sit on.
How will I feel after my holistic treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed, even light-headed. Some experience freedom from aches or pains. After a short period of feeling slowed down, people often experience heightened awareness, increased energy, and greater creativity. Since waste toxins are released from tissues during a massage, aid your lymph system by drinking water after your massage. Also, eating lightly will help you get grounded.
*Massage in the first trimester should be avoided