Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of the most joyous experiences but can also be the most stressful for new mothers. It is common for new mothers to experience baby blues, feeling teary, irritable, overly sensitive, moody, trouble sleeping, reduced concentration, or overwhelmed. The duration of baby blues affecting each new mother is different. It is encouraged for new mothers to make time for themselves, to keep their spirits up!
Today, many new mothers are eager to take up postnatal massages, with the goal of returning to their body shape. All new mothers should not be unduly worried about their physical sizes as the process of slimming down takes time. Always remind yourself that you have taken 9 months to grow into the prenatal size for your baby, it is reasonable to take at least 9 months to return to your original size.
However, it is recommended for new mothers to have a pampering massage session if plausible, to maintain mental wellness.
Massage triggers an involuntary – but expected – relaxation response from the nervous system, and can produce physical and emotional benefits. This causes your heart and breathing rates to slow down and your blood pressure and stress hormones to decrease, counteracting the negative effects of stress.
When pressure is applied to soft muscle tissue during a massage, it improves blood and lymph circulation and leads to a reduction of swelling.
Research has shown that massage stimulates the release of endorphins that reduce stress, anxiety, and pain.
Massage increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone that increases social bonding and positive behavior's like generosity, trustworthiness, and empathy.
Massage reduces activation of pain receptors in the spinal cord and muscles.
To all new mothers, cut yourselves some slack! Enjoy your bonding time with your new baby, and don't forget to treat yourselves to a soothing massage too.