How to Naturally Handle Stress During Pregnancy

You are having frequent back pain.
Your ankles are swollen.
You're running to the bathroom every five minutes.
You can't find a comfortable position to sleep.

Yes, you're pregnant, and most likely, you feel stressed out.

Unfortunately, stress during pregnancy is not just an inconvenience—it's unhealthy for you and your baby.

The good news is that you can cope with it. Your mental well-being is as important as your physical health, so here are a few tips to help you relax during pregnancy.

1. Concentrate on Your Breathing
   Stress can make your breath shorter and shallower, which decreases the oxygen in your body. In turn, it can cause your stress levels to rise as your body reacts to the lack of oxygen. Indeed, it’s a vicious cycle, but you can control it by meditating and breathing.

   Whenever you feel stressed, just sit down, shut your eyes, and take five deep breaths while paying attention to the rise and fall of your chest. Try to relax and let your stress slip away.

2. Start Stretching to Feel Better Instantly
   Hormones, which get released when you are stressed, can cause your muscles to tense up and tighten. A great way to relieve stress during pregnancy is by stretching.

   As soon as you feel anxious or nervous, take a moment out of your busy schedule to stretch your back, arms, neck, and legs. Pause during each stretch and hold the position for twenty seconds. 

3. Massage to De-stress
   An oil massage can help reduce friction. Choose an oil you like best and gently massage it into the areas of your body that are tense. Also, focus on your breathing simultaneously, and you’ll find your stress will evaporate.

4. Listen to Positive Talk
   Have you heard of talking to yourself positively? Yes, this is possible! All you need is a simple affirmation, which can improve your mental and emotional health and reduce stress. Learn the affirmation and repeat it in your mind to help your mind focus and push all negative thoughts out of your head. Your mantra can be anything. Some of our top picks include “I’m happy and relaxed,” “Stay Positive,” or “I’m 100% ready to take care of my newborn”.

5. Drink Peppermint Tea
   Peppermint leaves have menthol that acts as a muscle relaxant and sedative. It removes gas and resolves stomach issues such as vomiting and nausea. Sipping on peppermint tea can relieve your stress quickly. Keep peppermint tea bags in your purse or briefcase so you can fight stress and tummy trouble wherever you are.

6. Speak to Someone
   Pregnancy can bring on a new level of worry for some women. Speaking with someone about what may be bothering you is a great way to let go of your concerns and relieve stress in the process. Confide in a person you feel comfortable talking about sensitive issues such as a partner, a friend, or even a therapist—and get it all out.

Following these simple tips will make a big difference, and you’ll be surprised by how much better you’ll feel.