BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE
by Ariana Vincent - Ariana Institute
(Austin and Online)
Ariana Institute offers online and classroom CE courses in Prenatal Massage. www.arianainstitute.com Enjoy this article on the Benefits of Prenatal Massage. Warmly, Ariana
BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE
Prenatal massage offers a wide range of physiological, emotional and psychological benefits
Alleviates stress on weight-bearing joints and musculo-fascial structures.
Assists in remedying many of the common discomforts experienced during pregnancy: muscular discomforts, lower back pain, upper back pain, headaches, leg cramps, sciatica, stiffness, tension and knots, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, heartburn and acid reflux, fatigue, varicose veins, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, edema of the lower extremities, neck pain, interscapular pain, sacroiliac and hip joint pain and constipation
Increases blood circulation which provides more oxygen and nutrients to both mother and fetus and stimulates the lymph system, thereby increasing immunity and removal of toxins
Stabilizes hormonal levels and helps relieve depression or anxiety caused by hormonal changes
Soothes and relaxes the nervous system by releasing endorphins into the mother’s body. As a result, the expectant mother feels more relaxed and at-ease and will also sleep more easily and more deeply.
Assists in maintaining good posture and adjusting to a changing alignment caused by the baby's increasing weight. Massage increases muscle tone and flexibility, enhancing the ability to carry this extra weight while also relieving aches and pains, leg cramps and muscle spasms.
Eases the load on the heart and helps keep the blood pressure in check
Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissues
Supports the return of blood to the heart and increases blood flow to the uterus and placenta. With the enormous demands placed on the circulatory system during pregnancy, blood volume may increase up to 60% over pre-pregnancy levels. As pregnancy progresses and the uterus enlarges and presses deep into the pelvic bowl, venous return to the heart is hampered.
Prepares the mother-to-be for an easier delivery with its sedating effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
Offers a natural, safe, drug-free alternative choice for pain relief because taking medications are often limited during a pregnancy for the sake of the unborn child.
In addition to the physical benefits, prenatal massage provides expecting women with the emotional support and nurturing touch provided by non-sexual human touch and energy.
