Checking tasks off your to-do list for baby’s big arrival is always a good feeling. But what happens when you add a second to-do list for the holidays? “Overwhelmed” is how most women describe feeling when they’re pregnant during holidays—adding stress to a body that is already working overtime. Some women can find themselves with swollen feet and mood swings from too many holiday activities and heightened expectations.
If you find yourself in this scenario, there are smart ways to stay rested and merry throughout the holidays and into the new year.
Take It Slow
It never hurts to slow things down when pregnant during holidays, even when you have a lot on your plate. Remember, your body is working hard to grow a healthy baby—your most important task of all. Start early on your holiday planning to space tasks out over time. Order gifts online from the comfort of your sofa. Shorten your to-do list by delegating tasks or deleting a few altogether. You’ll be glad you did, and no one will notice.
Ask for Help
This is the perfect time to help others looking for work around the holidays. Hire a cleaning crew to whip the house into shape. Call a babysitter to help with little ones while you relax to enjoy holiday wrapping or decorating. Or plan holiday movie nights or reading afternoons to focus on restful fun with the family.
Sleep In
When the body doesn’t get the sleep it needs, everything becomes more difficult. It’s especially true when you’re expecting, which can wreak havoc on sleep schedules due to frequent nightly trips to the bathroom, heartburn, etc. Work in naps when you’ve been deprived of proper shuteye. Sleep in on the weekends or turn in early. As for those holiday parties? Attend them in moderation with a plan in place for sleep afterward.
Make Time for You
Focusing on yourself when pregnant during holidays goes a long way in alleviating stress, while also helping you find the joy of the season. Soak in the tub a few minutes longer. Smile more. Snuggle on the sofa for your favorite holiday movie. Sip on hot cocoa while journaling 10 things you’re thankful for. It’s the little things that make a difference when life is running past you. You can also take time out to attend a prenatal or birthday class to build peace of mind, helping you relax for the holidays.
Savor Every Bite
Holiday foods and specialty drinks are one of the highlights of the season, with homemade baked goods, rich entrees, and festive cocktails on the menu. You can still indulge a little as long as you use moderation as your guide. When pregnant during holidays, try a tasty mock-tail with sparkling water and choose recipes and portions wisely.
Learn More
To learn more about maternity care and how to survive being pregnant during the holidays, visit RMC and see why it was chosen as the first designated baby-friendly hospital in Alabama.