Remedial Massage For Pregnancy By Rakhee Dodhia

Pregnancy is a hugely exciting time, but it can also take its toll on the body and mind. Massage therapy has been used for centuries to enhance mental and physical wellbeing, and it is an increasingly popular remedy for women who are eager to keep tension, stress and aches and pains at bay during pregnancy. If you’re expecting, and you’re wondering if booking a remedial massage could benefit you, here’s a handy guide to pregnancy massage. 

What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage, as the name suggests, is a form of massage therapy designed specifically to benefit pregnant women. Prenatal massage is increasing in popularity and offers an array of benefits for pregnant women. Massage therapists use movements and actions that target common problems experienced by pregnant women focusing on a holistic approach, which champions mental and physical health. For many women, having a massage is a treat, but it can also provide curative benefits, especially for those struggling with pain or discomfort. 

The benefits of massage in pregnancy

Being pregnant can be wonderful, but it’s rare to go through nine months of pregnancy without experiencing a few niggles along the way. It’s very common for pregnant women to suffer from pain, particularly in the back and shoulders, and hormonal changes can also cause fluid build-ups, swelling, stiffness, and sleeping troubles. Massage is an effective, natural, holistic solution to many of these ailments. The main benefits of massage for pregnant women include:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety

While many women enjoy being pregnant, and it’s a very exciting time, it can also be nerve-wracking. If you’re expecting for the first time, or you’ve had problems or complications during a previous pregnancy, you may be prone to stress and anxiety. Massage can help to facilitate calm and relaxation, reducing anxiety and eliminating the risk of side-effects, including heartburn and insomnia.

  • Combating back pain

The excess weight your body carries when you’re pregnant can elevate the occurrence of back pain. Backache is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. Massage targets pressure points, releasing tension and loosening up the muscles. In some cases, pregnancy can increase the risk of sciatic pain or sciatica. If you have sciatica, gentle massage can help to alleviate discomfort by releasing the nerve. 

  • Headaches

If you’re prone to headaches, coping with pain during pregnancy can be difficult, as it’s not advisable to take painkillers. Massage therapy can provide a natural alternative, releasing tension in the muscles in the neck and shoulders, improving posture, and helping to make you feel calmer. 

  • Hormonal changes

During pregnancy women experience significant hormonal changes in the body, and this can result in a wide range of symptoms. Research published by the American Massage Association suggests that regular massages during pregnancy can help to stabilise hormone levels, particularly cortisol and norepinephrine, which are known to increase stress levels.

 

While pregnancy can be an incredibly joyous time, it can also be tough at times. When your body is changing, and you’re preparing to welcome a new baby into the world, you may find that you’re more prone to aches and pains, tension, and stress. If you’re struggling, or you’re looking for new ways to relax and unwind, why not consider booking a pregnancy massage?

Rakhee is a Remedial Massage Therapist, with a practice in Bilgola, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Of Indian origin, Rakhee, grew up surrounded by the ancient healing world of Ayurveda and has developed a keen interest and practice of the same.

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