Pregnancy is a beautiful, transformative time (or so we’re told, even if it doesn’t always feel like it), but it certainly calls for some serious self-love and relaxation! Prioritising your calming prenatal self-care routine is an absolute must, though how you do that varies from person to person. Today we’re going to have a look at some of the things people use to create their own pregnancy relaxation haven (with a focus on a few of the more luxurious Haakaa products, naturally), and hopefully you’ll be able to start building your own routine!
Beautiful Bump Skincare
As your body changes, your skin needs extra TLC, especially where it’s stretching to accommodate that growing bump. The daily ritual of applying balm is not just about skincare; it’s a wonderful chance for connection as well as engaging in some maternity aromatherapy.
This delightful little tin is a favourite, and with good reason! This naturally-scented balm has been specifically created to nourish stretching skin. By using the Haakaa Belly Bliss Lotion Balm daily, you've got your hands on an effective natural stretch mark prevention routine. The soothing ingredients include coconut oil and shea butter in a beeswax base for the next level in moisturising care, with the addition of rosehip oil for improved skin elasticity. Added to this are the essential oils of lavender, ylang ylang, mandarin & frankincense, all combining to help ease nausea, gently guide you into sleep, and help support the regeneration of skin cells. And did we mention that it smells divine? Because wow, does it ever.
While you might not need this option in the first few months, conditioning your nipples and areolas is something you’ll thank yourself for later. Haakaa’s Nipple Cream is a key part of getting your nipples and breasts ready for feeding bubs, one of those oft-overlooked yet crucial elements of preparing for a successful breastfeeding journey. Applying the Nipple Cream twice a day in the third trimester keeps the skin soft and supple, giving you peace of mind that you’re ready for the post-birth period. What’s even better, though, is that because this cream is made from ultra-purified lanolin, you can continue using it after bubs arrives. Simply pop some on after each feeding session – there’s not even any need to remove it before the next one!
General Body Revival and Wellness
One of the biggest pregnancy complaints is often tired, heavy legs and skin changes. Luckily, Haakaa has you sorted there, too, with the perfect, natural tool to help revive your whole body.
Dry brushing is an amazing holistic pregnancy self-care technique. Using our Sisal Body Brush gently on your skin encourages better circulation and boosts lymphatic flow, which can be fantastic for managing that feeling of pregnancy swelling or water retention in the legs. It’s a wonderful, invigorating way to exfoliate and feel refreshed without harsh scrubs, making it an ideal body care product for reducing water retention.
Other Soothing Options
There are, of course, a range of other activities you might choose to take up to help with that need to relax and get off your feet.
- Epsom Salt Baths
A warm bath is a classic remedy for aches and pains, and they can be a great way to get some of that weight off your feet. So, what’s the best way to use Epsom salts for pregnancy relaxation? Throw a handful of unscented salts into a nice, warm bath to soak away those muscle aches and cramps. Take your time, and let your body float as you relax. Remember to keep the water warm, not hot!
- Relaxing Aromatherapy
Use a diffuser with some pregnancy-safe essential oils – think things like the ones in the Belly Bliss Balm mentioned above – to create a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. As is always the case with essential oils, make sure you’re sticking to using a diffuser rather than putting them directly on your skin; this goes for whether you’re pregnant or not, as essential oils are usually extremely potent and can cause skin irritation. If you do want to use them topically, make sure to thoroughly dilute them using a carrier oil.
- Support Pillows
To wrap up, you’ll need to make sure you get as much good-quality sleep as you can. That’s not always easy to do, especially in the latter stages of pregnancy, but many mums find a good, full-body maternity support pillow (or, if you prefer, a belly pillow) can be an absolute lifesaver. There are a wide range of them available, and what suits you may be different to what suits others. That said, finding one that supports the weight of your belly, as well as taking the pressure off your hips, legs, and potentially even your breasts, can go a long way to helping you get some restful slumber.