As any mother-to-be will testify, pregnancy is rarely a comfortable time. There’s all those aches and pains in places you didn’t know existed not to mention a whole host of hormonal skin-flare ups. But you don’t need to suffer for nine months.
A great pregnancy massage isn’t just a pampering treat, When done correctly, it can aid circulation, reduce water retention and swelling, relieve muscle tension and offer some serious relaxation. Zen therapists are specially trained in the art of pregnancy massage which is why we’ve teamed up with Lululemon on George Street for their inaugural pre-natal yoga class with yoga expert, Julie Smeaton, on Saturday 17 September. Following an exclusive pregnancy yoga class, both Julie and myself will be on hand to answer all pregnancy related questions. And there will be amazing goody bags too!
If you can’t wait till then, here’s all you need to know about pre-natal massage to get started.
The goals of a pregnancy massage are essentially the same as your regular massage – to help you relax, de-stress and address any areas of tension or pain. Most pregnant women tend to have similar specific areas of concern such lower back and hip pain or tension due to the ever increasing weight they are carrying in front.
Here at Zen, a few changes are made in the treatment room to ensure you are comfortable and a large part of the massage will be done using special techniques while you are lying in the side position, propped up with many soft pillows for maximum safety and comfort for you and your baby. This has been found to be the most comfortable position for pregnant women.
Our pregnancy massages are always tailor-made to the requirements of mum-to-be to maximise her benefits. Generally speaking, the massage can benefit both mother and baby in many ways. Most commonly it can help to reduce back and joint pain, improve circulation, reduce swelling, reduce muscle tension and headaches, reduce stress and anxiety, improve oxygenation of soft tissues and muscle and also aid better sleep.
Pregnancy massage can only be carried out from the second trimester onwards. Its also very nice to have in the weeks following childbirth when the tummy can still be quite swollen.
We use Elemis Japanese Camellia oil. This is safe because it is a very light oil containing Japanese camellia and coconut oil. It also contains plant collagen which keeps the skin moisturised and supple, thus helping to prevent stretch marks.
The benefits of massage can improve overall prenatal health for many pregnant women. It can be incorporated into routine prenatal care weekly as an emotional and physical health supplement shown to improve pregnancy outcome and maternal health. However, we do advise that you consult with you midwife before beginning any new therapeutic practice.
Most of our treatments at Zen are safe to have whilst pregnant. Pedicures and manicure are always enjoyable as is our bespoke facials – our Murad hydrating facial is especially popular. You can also have lash and brow treatments however you may just be a little bit more sensitive. If you let us know you are pregnant when booking we can make sure the treatment is safe for you and your baby.
