Arvizu: Massage Makes Pregnancy Better
Thursday, March 12, 2015
“Perinatal massage,” licensed massage therapist and owner of 7Elephants Massage, Marisol Barry explains, “can hugely help alleviate pain associated with gait changes, circulatory shortcomings, postural stresses, and provide deep relaxation which promotes better sleep.” During pregnancy, our bodies release a hormone called relaxin to enable our ligaments to stretch. This process is ultimately meant for our pelvis to separate slightly to help the baby exit, but it can happen everywhere – like when our shoes suddenly no longer fit. The veins in the bottom half of our body also have to work much harder to return blood to the heart putting strain on the circulatory system. And that huge bowling ball belly does quite a number on our posture. “Bolstering and different techniques in the hands of a skilled therapist can make a huge difference,” says Barry.
Booking a professional massage can absolutely do wonders for the pregnant body, but what can be done in between massage appointments? Your partner doesn’t have to be a professional massage therapist to help you feel better. Loving touch from your partner promotes relaxation, lowers stress and can even reduce your perception of pain. You and your partner can learn a number of massage techniques at Wild Orchid Baby’s next Comfort Tools for Labor class. These skills can be practiced during pregnancy, labor and post-partum.
Physically, most of us are very aware of what pregnancy will do to our bodies, but we don’t always hear so much about the feelings of loss of control we experience when our body changes from our own to a life bearing vessel. “As a mother,” Marisol shares, “I truly believe that massage can help give Mama her body back. The hour on the table is a return of bodily possession to the rightful owner. It can be very freeing and empowering.” Interested in booking a prenatal massage for you or someone you love? Check out 7Elephants Massage located in Shrewsbury, MA.
Erin Arvizu is owner of Wild Orchid Baby. If you need help exploring your birth options, stop by Wild Orchid Baby located at 490 Shrewsbury Street in Worcester and chat with local birth professionals and childbirth educators.
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