Pregnancy - Exercises and Massages

As pregnancy advances, women complain of lower back pain, due to increased pressure on the spine. Gentle massaging techniques help alleviate pain and discomfort by relaxing tense and tired muscles. It also helps improve circulation, soothe tired muscles, while also activating the nerve endings in the skin. The end result makes you feel absolutely peaceful and comfortable. 

You may seek the services of a professional masseur who has specialized in pregnancy techniques. Exerting too much pressure may prove harmful.

Getting your partner to give you a foot, hand or neck massage before bed is a good way to enhance relaxation, also promoting a sense of security and closeness with your partner. 

You can also give yourself a massage on areas you can reach to have a pleasant pregnancy.

Use of aromatic oils for massage

Scented oils or aromatic oils are commonly used during massage as they are known for their healing properties. They also enable hands to glide over the skin during massage. Further, their enduring fragrance creates the perfect mood and relaxation, which is the ideal outcome of a good massage session. 

Among the range of aromatic oils available, only the gentler varieties are actually recommended for use during pregnancy. It is best to seek the advice of an aroma therapist.

Examples of aromatic oils and their uses:

• Lavender oil relieves insomnia and headaches, also improves circulation 
• Rose oil can be used as a relaxant
• Neroli, Lavender, Clary-Sage essential oils are used to bring about calm
• Lavender, Geranium, Nutmeg oil improve circulation  and promote mind-body balance

Massage Movements

 Different types of strokes are used for massage to enable appropriate relaxation and relief. The popular massage movements which can be used are:

Circling: Strokes are made in one direction in a circular fashion, using the palms of both hands, keeping the movement away from the spine. Do not exert too much pressure while massaging the abdomen and breasts.

Effleurage: Slight feathery circular massage movements made using the tips of fingers. These massage movements are safe all through pregnancy and can be used all over the abdomen.

Gliding: Palms of both hands are used to and fro down the sides of the body in a gliding motion without exerting weight of the body on the hands.

Massaging Techniques

 

• Cover your face with your hands and rest your fingertips on the forehead
• The heels of your hands must rest on the chin
• After a few seconds, pull your hands towards your ears.

Chin and Neck

Improve blood circulation under the chin using quick movements of the hands.

Gentle pinching movements along the jaw bone and around the neck improve blood circulation in the neck region.

Massage by a Partner