4. Create a Self-Care Routine
If you’re struggling to focus on the present, create a self-care routine. This gives you steps to complete when you feel like you can’t sit still. Having a process for calming yourself down and bringing your mind back to the present is a huge resource.
Your self-care routine doesn’t have to be complicated. You could take a relaxing milk bath, apply your favorite mud mask, or just read a soothing book. It’s all about you, mama!
5. Work Out Your Body
It’s perfectly safe to exercise your body within moderation (unless told otherwise by your doctor) during pregnancy. Moving your body a little bit each day releases happy hormones, helping you feel calmer at the moment.
You don’t’ have to invest in fancy work out classes or yoga retreats. Just stretching for a few minutes each morning or going on a walk are great ways to get your blood flowing. Better yet, play your favorite music or one of these podcasts for moms to focus on the moment.
6. Get Better Sleep
One common reason for experiencing anxiety is sleep deprivation. If you’re not getting enough sleep each night, you’re bound to feel more stress and anxiety. The way to beat this is simple—invest in your sleep.
Using an aromatherapy nighttime scrub can help you unwind around bedtime. By getting into a healthy sleep routine, you can ensure your body is getting the rest it needs every night.
7. Talk to Your Doctor
While some anxiety is a normal part of pregnancy and change, know when it’s time to talk to a doctor. Finding a doctor you trust to talk to about your concerns and thoughts is a great way to put yourself at ease.
In addition, talking through these mental struggles with a qualified therapist or counselor can also help soothe your worries. There are counselors who specialize in pregnancy and motherhood, and these are a great resource.
Keep Looking Forward
Pregnancy isn’t always easy. While it’s easy to feel like every person on social media has a super simple pregnancy, this is never the case. You’re not alone in these feelings of anxiety and worry, mama. When in doubt, talk to your doctor and your support system.
Remember that these feelings will pass. Pregnancy isn’t forever, and every moment is a gift.
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This piece originally appeared at Babe & Body, published with permission.
