By Amber Lester
Pregnancy can be a challenging time for mind, body and spirit.
In just 280 days the body goes through enormous changes. The effects of pregnancy ripple through the entire body like a boulder dropped into a pond.
Every body system is affected.
Not only are there physical changes and physiological changes but there are emotional and philosophical changes as well. A sudden shift in one’s reality, a future with unknown perils and triumphs, and a responsibility that feels like the weight of the entire world. Not to mention the bloating, constant urination, shift in the center of gravity, tender breasts, nausea… I could go on.
The body, mind, and spirit undergo a complete transformation throughout pregnancy. As massage therapists we can soothe, nurture and assist the mother to be through this incredible journey.
There are many myths, and much misinformation surrounding prenatal massage. And while some of the claims out there are ridiculous there are very valid things that you do have to look out for in a prenatal massage. Which is why it is important for therapists to make sure that they are knowledgeable, competent and above all practicing our do no harm directive.
We, with our supportive touch and presence, can help to navigate our clients through this incredibly demanding time.
Prenatal clients are not something to be feared or avoided. This very special population is one that is in such great need of our nurturing and reassuring touch. Outside of the simple fact that they have now been given permission to relax on our table which, in itself is monumental to a lot of moms to be, there are so many ways that we can provide relief to the expectant mother.
Gentle stretching and very intentional, gentle, pain-free, work can be very effective at alleviating skeletal muscle discomfort.
Slow intentional myofascial release in the torso can create more room for the baby and foster ease of movement for the mother.
Nurturing touch and lymphatic stimulation in the limbs can assist with detoxification and relaxation.
And even something as simple as a side lying sacral press can bring enormous relief by releasing pressure in the pelvic bowl.
There are many techniques and modalities that can be brought into a prenatal massage. As long as nothing is setting off the sympathetic nervous system, and extra care is used for positioning to ensure no hyperextension of joints, you can get pretty creative and have fun with it. Some clients are going to relax best with a light pressure while others are going to feel more relaxed with a deeper contact. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all, and truly no massage is,.The key is to never be sharp or painful. Remember the hormones that are released into the mother’s system will be released into the baby’s system as well, so we want to keep the dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin flowing.
Assisting someone through their journey to motherhood can be very rewarding. Whether it’s a regular client or just the occasional prenatal relief massage that comes through the spa, it is much more than just a treat for the expectant mother. It is a service that can help improve pregnancy outcomes, as well as prepare the body for labor and delivery. Prenatal massage can give an enormous amount of relief to clients rapidly changing body, mind and spirit.
Please join us at Florida School of Massage on May 31st and June 1st for two incredible days of myofascial release, nurturing touch, and lymphatic stimulation for pregnancy.
