Prenatal Massage

Pregnancy was the most beautiful experience of my life. I remember everything from the all-day sickness to her hiccups and kicks. Our bodies are magnificent vessels that go through extraordinary changes as they protect and nourish a growing baby. We are warriors.

One of my favorite modalities is prenatal massage.

It could be because I, too, have experienced the aches, pains, and discomforts associated with pregnancy. I was swollen, uncomfortable, and for weeks at a time, in lots of pain but it wasn’t enough for me to never want to do it again. Instead, it has motivated me to do all I can to provide comfort to another mother in need.

What happens to the muscles in a woman’s body during pregnancy?

As the child grows, so does the uterus.  Superior to the uterus lie abdominal muscles. During pregnancy the elasticity in these muscles increases allowing for extreme stretching. When one muscle is stretched there has to be another muscle that is working against it which will result in a contracted muscle. The muscles working against the abdominal muscles are our back muscles. These muscles become tight and stiff throughout the pregnancy. At some point in the pregnancy, women might experience sciatic pain and numbness due to pressure from swollen muscles pushing up against nerves.

I enjoy prenatal massages because they’re unlike any other modality.

Your body is a castle sheltering a king/queen. I am here to make sure there are no holes or cracks in your castle and that it can withstand any storm.  I perform my prenatal massages by having the woman lie on her side as she throws her leg up over a body pillow. This is natural and comfortable. She feels at home. I focus a lot of time on the back, elongating those tight muscles and letting them know it's okay to relax. I give attention to the shoulders, neck and head. The entire body, excluding the belly, gets massage while staying away from those sensitive areas that could potentially promote uterine contractions. Every stroke is applied with love and light.

Benefits of prenatal massage:

RELAXATION: Not just of the body but of the mind. Everything will be just fine.
Reduction of anxiety/depression: You can do this! You are doing it.
Reduction in edema/swelling: You lost your ankles but you’ll find them again. Trust me.
Reduction of pain: I can help with muscle pain. Can’t do much for the little fist stuck in your ribcage.

Please, when booking a prenatal massage, make sure you find a therapist that enjoys it. Your experience depends on it.

“Now my belly is as noble as my heart.”  ~Gabriela Mistral