MUMS SHARE: 8 Cool Ways to Pamper Your Pregnant Body

Ameena Aliyu-Beighton

With all that pulling, stretching and growing going on, every pregnant woman longs for pampering ideas to make her feel better. We asked a few pregnant ladies what they would most cherish in their current state. Here are some of their favourites:

1. Foot massage

I honestly feel totally pampered and refreshed after a foot massage. My feet are always so achy and sore after a long week at work.
Zainab, Accountant

With the extra weight putting pressure on the feet and ankles, who wouldn’t love a thorough foot rub? Get your partner or friends to give you a soothing one, with lovely scented massage oil or visit the spa.

2. Sleep

I always feel really exhausted come sundown, so I tend to soak in a warm bath. Fragranced oil burners always give it an added sense of luxury. Then I literally sleep like a baby.
Chinedu, MA Student

For pregnant mums and indeed every human, getting adequate sleep is important. You will feel well rested and ready to take on the numerous tasks ahead. Pregnancy can leave you feeling exhausted. A nice shower/bath followed by an average of 7-9 hours of deep sleep will leave you feeling refreshed in the morning. Try to limit fluid intake close to bedtime to minimize toilet trips and use support pillows. In addition, take catnaps during the day.

3. Dress it up!

Before pregnancy, I always had issues with certain kinds of dresses, but I dare say pregnancy has given me a new boost of confidence and glow. It’s surprising how good I feel styling and showing off my baby bump in lovely maternity and regular outfits. Then, I opt for the right accessories, comfy shoes and make-up. I surprise myself most times; must be the hormones or something. Hubby, colleagues and friends always tell me how well styled I look in pregnancy. Love dressing up my bump!
Sarah, Pharmacist

Well, this may work for you too. So, spruce up your closet and have a style filled pregnancy. It’s bound to make the waddle look more stylish and you’ll feel too cool to be true.

4. Intense moisture lock

I always look forward to some quality time. Hubby and I have made our daily tummy rubs a ritual. I do moisturize my bump myself throughout the day but doing it with my husband just makes it extra special.
Sade, Doctor

Moisturizing your bump to reduce itchiness has a double barrelled effect. Apart from leaving your bump feeling velvety, it creates a bonding experience between mother and child and spouse if he joins in. You may get a response from your unborn child by way of kicks.

5. Splurge on pregnancy massage

I don’t think a month has gone by since I have been pregnant without at least one visit to the spa. I really feel rejuvenated at the end. Sometimes I wish it could be at least 2 hours long. My husband does give me the occasional back rub now and then.
Irene, Office Administrator

No surprises here, this is always a favourite. Ask your partner for a simple back rub or indulge in a professional massage and switch off for an hour. There are loads of options out there for pregnant women.

6. Fulfill a craving or two

I must confess answering a craving call really does it for me. I don’t make it a habit because everything I crave is super indulgent.
Joy, Cleaning business owner

Myth or reality, the tales of pregnancy craving go back in time. Indulging in a treat when you crave it so much is guaranteed to hit the spot on those low days. Moderation is key though.

7. Snoogle

Before I got snoogle, it was so difficult to get a comfy position to make falling asleep easier. I also use it when I’m not in bed. It gives me more comfort on the sofa when watching a movie.
Steph, HR consultant

Invest in a snoogle total body pillow that follows the contour of your body. As your bump grows, your body changes shape and this can make that all too important sleep difficult. A snoogle pillow could make all the difference and foster that good night sleep to leave you feeling refreshed.

8. Yoga

Yoga does a lot for me. It relaxes me totally and makes me feel more flexible. I don’t go too hard at it though.
Emma, social worker

A good stretch leads the way for a more supple feeling as the pregnant body can start to feel stiff and achy. A good pregnancy yoga dvd or class should do the trick. And after this? Number 6 does make more sense, trust me.

Pregnancy is such a beautiful experience. Make it even more beautiful for you by discovering more healthy ways to pamper your body and stay refreshed.