Let’s talk belly massages!
When I found out I was expecting twins, one of my first concerns was how the heck is my stomach going to be able to stretch that far?! I knew I had to be proactive to assist my body and skin with the major changes ahead so I adopted a belly massage routine early on.
Belly massages can be very beneficial during pregnancy for many reasons including:
Improving skin and connective tissue mobility
Improving skin hydration
Improving circulation
Improving muscle tension
Reducing stress and anxiety
Feeling connected to your changing body and your baby
So how do you perform a belly massage? I like to begin with a belly serum or oil to lubricate the skin. I make sure to place over my entire abdomen in a generous amount. Before starting the massage, I grab a good creamy lotion to avoid any irritating friction between my hands and already over-stretched stomach skin. Once I have a generous amount of cream on my abdomen, I start to massage. I provide gentle pressure in circular and sweeping motions to help mobilize the skin and the connective tissues below. In more muscular areas, I give a slightly deeper pressure to help mobilize these thicker tissues and release tension in my abdominals, obliques, and back musculature. I perform these massages 1-2 times per day for a few minutes each time and only apply as much pressure as is comfortable for my abdomen.
Remember each body is different and you should always consult with your Doctor of Physical Therapy and other maternity healthcare providers to determine what products and what techniques of belly massage are right for your body. If you want to learn how to give yourself effective belly massages throughout your pregnancy, reach out to Life Changes Physical Therapy to meet with one of our Doctors of Physical Therapy today!
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