Embracing the sacred journey: Ayurvedic wisdom for women’s health in pregnancy
As you embrace the miraculous journey of pregnancy, your body becomes a vessel of divine creation – a sacred temple in life. That can feel like a pretty big responsibility, right?
Pregnancy is a hugely transformative time, and it’s essential to take care of your physical and emotional health during this transition. We’re here to help! If you’re practising pregnancy yoga and Pilates – that’s a great start. But did you know that the philosophies that underpin these practises can also be hugely supportive? During this wondrous chapter, yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda, can offer a guiding light to nurture your wellbeing. By nourishing your body and mind through healthy practices inspired by ancient knowledge, you can settle into this sacred time with grace and ease. So, let’s explore some Ayurvedic practices to support women’s health in pregnancy.
Nurture with nourishing foods
During this sacred time, nourishing your body with wholesome, nutrient-dense foods becomes an act of love and reverence. Embrace Ayurvedic principles of balance by savouring fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, providing a symphony of vitamins and minerals. Make sure everything you take in is easy to digest – think slow cooked meats, soaked legumes, and activated nuts. Incorporate gentle grains like quinoa and millet to provide sustained energy and nourishment (remembering to soak before you cook). Sip on warm teas infused with soothing herbs like chamomile and ginger, inviting comfort and easing digestion.
Practise gentle self-care
Self-care is more important during pregnancy than ever, and it’s a beautiful time to nurture your body and soul with tenderness and love. Embrace Ayurvedic practices such as Abhyanga. Abhy-what-now? It’s the art of self-massage. Simply warm up some sesame or coconut oil and gently massage it into your body, leave for ten minutes, and wash off in the shower. It will help to enhance circulation, ease discomfort, and foster a deep connection with your growing bub. Enjoy prenatal yoga and pregnancy Pilates, allowing the movements to honour your changing body and connection with your baby.
Harmonise your body and mind
Pregnancy brings forth a symphony of emotions and physical changes. In Ayurveda’s embrace, explore harmony by practising mindfulness and meditation. Practices like yoga nidra will help you find serenity and the strength to nurture yourself and the life within you, as well as allowing you deep rest when it’s most needed. Embrace the transformative power of pranayama, breathing techniques that are often integrated into yoga and pregnancy yoga classes, to calm your mind, enhance your bond with baby, and create a nurturing inner space for you both.
Rest and replenish
In a whirlwind of anticipation and excitement, remember to honour the invitation to rest. Ayurveda embraces the beauty of deep rejuvenation during pregnancy. Prioritise sleep, creating a tranquil sanctuary and indulging in gentle evening rituals to adequately prepare for your nightly rest. Surround yourself with soft blankets, soothing aromas, and serene lighting, inviting a deep sense of replenishment. Let rest restore your body, mind, and spirit and prepare you for the journey ahead.
Seek support and celebrate sisterhood
Ayurveda recognises the significance of human connection and relationships for overall wellbeing. Nurturing relationships that promote love, care, and support is vital as you navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy. Seek the support and wisdom of other women who have tread this path before you. Connect with like-minded souls, sharing stories, laughter, and tears. Join a pregnancy yoga or Pilates class, find a local pregnancy group, or connect with like-minded friends online. Embrace the power of sisterhood, for in these connections you can find solace, inspiration, and the reminder that you are not alone.