pregnant

Actively Slowing Down

One of my recent struggles is learning to slow down. Not because I’m always on the move or a workaholic but because I’m creating another being inside of me. Being a Massage Therapist, I’ve always encouraged mothers-to-be to get massage, to listen to their bodies, to take the time they need to adapt to this huge life change; I just didn't realize how difficult it would be to take my own advice [go figure!]. I recently was told by another LMT and new mom, “it’s difficult, but you need to actively slow down” I thought to myself ‘I’ve cut down on so many activities, foods, drinks, etc. I am actively slowing down.’ The truth is I had not slowed down as much as I needed to. My body was exhausted for the following two days from 3-one hour massages, I thought that this was so bizarre, I was always able to do 3 massages in one day, I must be getting sick or I must not have gotten enough sleep, food or water. In all reality, it’s just getting to the point where the little being I’m creating is needing more from me and taking it as he needs it.

The struggle of changing your mind to REALIZE that you are CREATING another LIFE does not happen in the snap of a finger or when you get the news that you are pregnant. I’m 7 months almost 8 and I’m just wrapping my head around this; the time it has taken, the aches and pains I’m enduring, the fatigue I am feeling and the appetite I’ve adapted are now making me come to the realization. All in all I am glad to finally get to this point, I’ve always listened to my body but this has taught me to listen in a whole new way.