Relaxation for pregnant and breastfeeding mamas

Whether you are a mama-to-be or a new mama there are sure to be many demands on your time (work, your family and friends, laundry, cooking, cleaning, the list goes on...) So it's really important to take a little time for yourself every day and TRY to relax!

I just love baths, and find wallowing in the tub a great way to relax before bedtime. Throw in some scented candles and a good book, and I'm away! To indulge my love of bathing, I am always on the lookout for beautifully scented products, enticing me with their promises of relaxation, lifting my mood, enhancing sleep or unknotting my tired muscles... I trained as an aromatherapist years ago (but didn't pursue this new career, as I started Bella Mama instead!) so I look for products with top quality aromatherapy oils and having sensitive skin, I avoid anything packed with artificial foaming agents, chemicals and other skin-stripping nasties.

Yesterday in a local shop I discovered (and treated myself to!!) the most amazing range of gorgeously indulgent treats - heavenly bath bubbles, uplifting shower gels and divine candles - in the luxury line Abahna. Their philosophy is simple, and centres on the ritual of bathing. Their products are made with delicious sounding ingredients like wild flower honey, aloe vera, shea and cocoa butter, with fragrances from pure essential oils and they never use synthetic perfumes, artificial colourings, mineral oils, parabens and other nasties and are against animal testing. Love, Love, Love it!!

"A daily bathing ceremony is one of life's simplest luxuries. It is a chance to prepare yourself for the day ahead or reflect on the day just gone".  

Hubby was away last night, so after a busy day of BellaMama-ing, coping with the chaos of the building work we are having done and running around with the kiddos, I chose the Frankincense and Sweet Orange with its warm and comforting aroma, and it's promise to bring the emotions back into balance.

I lit the candle whilst the kiddos were on bedtime wind-down, and it really worked. They both loved the smell, and claimed they felt super relaxed too. haha, result! They both went to bed in super quick time, and left me to slip into my bubbly bath. It was just as divine, relaxing and calming as promised and I had a great night's sleep (for a change!). Oooh, it was the deep, restorative sleep that I usually get after a yoga class or relaxing massage, lovely! Will be checking out the rest of the range too...

Kirsten
x 

Breastfeeding in Public – tips for new or expectant mums

So you are pregnant and you know that you want to breastfeed your baby. Congratulations! Maybe you have started breastfeeding but not yet ventured out in public.  Breastfeeding in public can be a scary thought for any new mum and even not so new mums.  These tips should help you on your way.

   1. Practise in front of a mirror.  It might help you to know exactly what can be seen when you are breastfeeding your baby, you might be pleasantly surprised!
 
   2. Wear the right clothes. Ensure that you are wearing something that you are comfortable in and that can give you easy access for feeding.  This might be a large top that you can easily lift or open.  Layering with a cardigan can offer additional coverage.  There are many different styles of breastfeeding clothing available, often with hidden openings across the chest allowing access without having to lift or remove any item of clothing.  You might choose to double layer vests and lift one and pull down the other which will provide a similar effect.

   3. Take a friend along for moral support.  If you are going to breastfeed in public for the first time, you should take someone supportive along with you whether this be your partner, friend, mum or even some other new mums.

   4. Go to a breastfeeding friendly place. You may want to seek out some breastfeeding friendly places in your local area and choose one for your first outing.  Your Midwife or Health Visitor should be able to advise you on breastfeeding friendly places.  Often child/baby friendly cafes are breastfeeding friendly.

   5. Find a seat out of the way.  If you are still feeling nervous you may want to find a seat out of the way or in the corner until you increase your confidence.

   6. You could use a breastfeeding scarf or cover such as a Mamascarf. This not only provides privacy for public breastfeeding but allows you to see your baby throughout the feed, can’t be pulled off and also provides some additional support.

   7. Plan your route.  If you know where you are going to be when it’s feeding time, you will be able to make sure that you are somewhere you are going to feel comfortable breastfeeding your baby.

   8. Have confidence in yourself and what you are doing. You are breastfeeding your baby, it is your right!  It is the best food you can give your baby and it is also good for you too.  Good luck and remember it gets easier with time. Happy Breastfeeding!

Huge Thanks to Keira O’Mara from Mamascarf for allowing us to reproduce her article. Mamascarf is a revolutionary new design that not only allows mothers to breastfeed stylishly and discreetly, but also provides essential support without the need for a cushion!