Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy Massage is a firm, but also a relaxing, massage which takes the special needs of pregnant women into consideration. It is an excellent and holistic way to treat many problems throughout pregnancy and in the post natal period.
Pre-natal
Pregnancy Massage consists of specialised techniques which focus on the various needs of the mother-to-be. The Massage varies and adapts through-out each trimester as the body changes over the 40 week gestation period. Generally the treatment is carried out whilst the client lies on her side and a natural or lavender fine wax is applied as the massage medium. Various shiatsu techniques may be used, along with stretching techniques and light lymphatic drainage techniques. This treatment can be adapted to be both a firm and therapeutic massage and/or a gentle, nurturing and relaxing massage. Pregnancy Massage, therefore is tailored to each client and also varies considerably during each.
First Trimester – Weeks 1 – 13
At this stage of pregnancy a woman may feel extremely tired, emotional, anxious and nauseous due to all the changes happening within her body. Pregnancy Massage during this trimester is slow and gentle and helps ease any aches and pains. The use of shiatsu pressure points restores a sense of well-being and gentle massage strokes sooth the body.
Second Trimester – Weeks 14 – 27
During the second trimester a woman’s body can start to feel the strain of pregnancy. The baby is growing and increases the mother’s body weight. At this stage Pregnancy Massage helps to ease tired and achy joints, puffy hands and feet and with a little deeper massage releases pain, stress and tension. With gentle stretching and manipulation it also helps prevent leg cramps and general stiffness.
Third Trimester – Weeks 28 – 40
During the third Trimester Pregnancy Massage can help to reduce and relieve achy hips and restless limbs and reduce swelling and oedema in joints/limbs. Massage can help to release headaches and induce a deeper state of relaxation to promote better sleep.
Post-natal
After the baby has been born Post-natal massage continues to support the mother and ease tension. Once the mother has started breast feeding and carrying the baby her body will ache in a different way in comparison to the pregnancy cycle. Aches can occur in the back, neck, shoulders and arms. Massage helps to release these new tension areas and gives the mother some time to herself to relax and restore her energy.
