Families are the foundation of communities. Some couples are joyful at the thought of expanding their family dynamics.
Pregnancy, which is 40 weeks of creating and developing human life, is a glorious and wondrous occasion. You can heighten the joy and satisfaction of pregnancy with these ten relaxing and safe hobbies.
Embracing Hobbies for a Joyful Pregnancy Journey
A healthy and safe pregnancy is every mother`s wish. However, some women are luckier than others and have mild to no symptoms, while a small percentage face many challenges and complications.
It is no secret that pregnancy places a high demand on a woman´s body as hormonal levels soar through the roof. Hobby engagement can provide many benefits for the mother and fetus and help make the pregnancy a more joyous and wonderful experience for expecting moms.
Gentle Yoga and Prenatal Pilates: Nurturing Your Body and Mind
It is no secret that every woman gains weight during pregnancy. The CDC recommends that pregnant women engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity. You can do moderate physical activity for thirty minutes five days a week. There are many benefits associated with physical activity during pregnancy. Moderate physical activities may:
- lower the chances of excessive weight gain,
- reduce the risk of gestation issues common in pregnancy,
- lower the risk of diabetes during pregnancy,
- and significantly lower the risk of post-partum depression.
1. Gentle Yoga
Gentle Yoga is a powerful tool to harmonize the body and mind connection and can significantly improve your mental and physical health during pregnancy. The availability and flexibility of gentle yoga (social media- YouTube) allow you to engage at any time of the day or night and is a pleasant distraction for sleepless nights. Reports from the NIH state that gentle yoga is safe and promotes emotional wellness.
2. Swimming
Swimming is an excellent workout for pregnant moms as it avoids overheating. It is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on your joints and body. Swimming reduces the risk of injury or strain, particularly in your ligaments and joints (already under extreme pressure). Other benefits include:
- provides a weightless sensation for your growing belly,
- may help reduce the feeling of heaviness,
- helps reduce pressure on the spine,
- may help improve circulation and heart health,
- enhances endurance and stamina,
- may reduce swelling and fluid retention (common problems in pregnancy),
- may help promote better circulation,
- may alleviate swelling in ankles and legs,
- and is an enjoyable and comfortable form of exercise.
Before starting any exercise, it is vital to consult your OBGYN. Always prioritize safety and well-being above all else, and listen to your body when engaging in low-impact exercises. Your health is of the utmost importance at such a critical time.
3. Gentle Pilates
Gentle Pilates is another low-impact workout that can strengthen your core muscles and the pelvic floor; giving additional support to your spine. According to studies by the NIH, pregnant women who engage in gentle Pilates significantly lower their chances of requiring a C-section.
Other benefits include:
- may promote good posture,
- may lower strain on your lower back and pelvis,
- may strengthen the pelvic floor,
- improve flexibility and joint mobility,
- may alleviate pain and discomfort,
- and help strengthen and prepare you for labor and delivery.
4. Creative Crafting: DIY Projects to Prepare for Your Baby’s Arrival
This portion of the post contains affiliate links, which means if you make purchases through them, EHLC may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We do hope you use them as a small token of your support (for coffee). Thank you in advance for your generous support.
Creative crafting is another excellent outlet for pregnant moms. Crafting allows your creativity to shine through and encourages brain stimulation. When it comes to creative crafting, the sky is the limit.
You can create unique or popular crafts. Here are a few crafting ideas for expectant moms.
Pregnancy belly casting (using plaster, you can decorate the belly cast in bold colors and use different prints)
Decorative dream catchers (using embroidery hoops, yarn, and beads)
Decorative Paper Quilling: is the art of using long, thin, colorful paper strips by rolling or pinching them into various shapes and gluing them together to form beautiful, decorative art.
Here´s what you need for paper quilling:
- Quilling paper strips
- Quilling tool (used to roll paper into coils and other shapes.
- Glue
- Quilling board (helpful in making consistent coils and circles.
- Tweezers (for small intricate pieces)
Basic Techniques
- Coiling: rolling paper strips into coils, you can adjust the tightness of the coils to create different effects.
- Scrolls and circles: You can create different shapes, such as scrolls, ovals, and circles.
- Teardrops and Marquises: Pinching or tapering the ends of coils can form beautiful teardrops and marquises.
- Husking: You can create a controlled shape with combinations of coils and pinching the paper in specific ways.
Steps in Paper quilling:
- Select your quilling design or pattern.
- Determine the colors of the paper strips you want.
- Utilize the quilling tool you need to form your desired shapes.
- Position the shape of the quilled pieces to your desired designs.
- Glue the pieces together and let dry.
- Finish by arranging or framing your designs.
Tips for Paper Quilling
- It is best to begin with simple designs, especially if you are new to quilling.
- Try different bold colors for contrast and to pop the visual appeal of your creations.
- A fine-tipped glue applicator or toothpick will aid in precision gluing.
- Organize your quilling strips for easy accessibility.
- Paper quilling can be a multifaceted and gratifying craft. It is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters. You can unleash your creativity and surprise yourself along the way with only a few basic supplies.
5. Nature Walks and Gentle Strolls: Connecting with the Outdoors Safely
Nature seems to have a bewitching hold over us humans. It draws us into its beauty and captivates us in a timeless and tranquil oasis, high-jacking our senses, focus, and attention. Nature advocates living in the present moment and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us.
Nature walks and gentle strolls have many benefits;
- increases calmness,
- improves mental health,
- reduces stress,
- strengthens muscles,
- help you avoid excessive weight gain,
- and help promote restful sleep.
Journaling and Scrapbooking: Documenting Your Beautiful Journey to Motherhood
6. Journaling
Journaling is a mindful act that can clear and organize your mind, feelings/emotions, and thoughts. Journaling can be very insightful for processing your feelings at a given time. Journaling also helps you identify and rectify certain thoughts and behavior patterns.
Journaling for pregnant women can be a beautiful keepsake for mom and child. Documentation of the pregnancy process can also be insightful as a health tracker as you record your diet, weight gain, and other pertinent information.
7. Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a photo album/scrapbook of memories and involves a lot of documentation and creativity. If you would like to create a beautiful keepsake to pass down to future generations of your family, scrapbooking is the perfect vehicle for this. Your family members will appreciate the memories and information passed down to them because you were thoughtful enough to give them a treasure they could keep for a lifetime.
Cooking and Baking Delights: Nourishing Yourself and Your Growing Baby
It is vital to nourish your body with healthy foods to give yourself and your baby a good start. Remember your baby´s health depends on what you consume, so be mindful to eat a well-balanced diet as much as possible. Granted, some women may experience morning sickness for a short while and may crave specific foods, while others can´t hold down anything at all. The good news is that some fortunate women may not experience this while others get quick relief from it.
According to the NIH, expectant moms should increase their dietary intake to 300 kcal/day in the 1st trimester, 340 kcal/day in the 2nd trimester, and 452 kcal/day in the 3rd trimester.
8. Cooking-Nourishing yourself and your baby
Here are some cooking ideas to help you stay on the right track. The following meals are full of health benefits for you and your baby, and it doesn´t hurt that they are also delicious.
Grilled Salmon and Quinoa Bowl
Grilled salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for fetal brain development. Quinoa is rich in protein and fiber. Combine the grilled salmon with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, colored peppers, and quinoa for a hearty meal.
Chickpea and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Fry vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and chickpeas in a light sesame or olive oil. You can serve this nutrient-packed meal over a bed of brown rice or whole-grain noodles for added fiber.
Sweet Potato and Black bean Enchiladas
Black beans are protein-rich, and sweet potatoes are abundant in vitamins and fiber. Combine the ingredients in whole-grain tortilla wraps and bake with a tomato-based enchilada source of your choice. If you like, you can top it with Greek yogurt for an added calcium boost.
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Lean chicken is an excellent source of protein, and spinach provides iron and folate. Bake chicken breast stuffed with a mixture of spinach and feta cheese. Add a side like steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes.
Vegetable Stuffed Bell Peppers and Quinoa
Get your fiber, protein, and required vitamins with this simple yet explosive dish.
Stuff the peppers with a generous mixture of corn, quinoa, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
Healthy Snacks Ideas
Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
Mix pumpkin puree, nut butter, and a dash of honey in rolled oats to have instant no-bake bites rich in fiber and healthy fats as a convenient snack. Add cinnamon and nutmeg for added flavor.
Greek Yogurt
You can top Greek yogurt with fresh fruits like chopped bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Remember to consult your OBGYN to ensure your diet satisfies your specific nutritional needs during pregnancy. Remember to stay hydrated and get the necessary prenatal supplements suggested.
9. Baking-Rewarding yourself and your baby
When seeking nourishment through baking during pregnancy, remember to incorporate whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins. Pay special attention to your sugar intake and choose natural sweeteners instead. Remember to consult your OBGYN to ensure your baking goods are in line with your nutritional needs during pregnancy.
Whole Wheat Banana Bread
Bake a nutritious banana bread with whole wheat flour, ripe bananas, and a small amount of added sugar. Add chopped nuts or seeds as sources of healthy fats.
Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins
Combine oats and whole wheat flour to bake delicious muffins. Put in fresh or frozen blueberries as natural sweeteners and enjoy their antioxidant benefits
For extra moisture, you can add some Greek yogurt (optional).
Zucchini Walnut Bread
Mix grated zucchini into an oat flour or whole wheat batter to increase moisture and nutritional value. Add chopped walnuts for omega-3 fatty acids and a satisfying crunch.
10. Reading Relaxation: Dive into Books that Inspire and Educate about Parenthood
Reading is an excellent and pleasant vessel of delightful escape. A good book can engross you in its content and keep you captive in its storyline. As a new mom-to-be, you can educate yourself on what´s going on in your body, what to expect, what to avoid, and stay abreast on the topic.
Reading aloud to your unborn child sharpens mother-child bonding as your baby can recognize rhythm and hear the tone of your voice by the 2nd trimester.
In essence, reading aloud can stimulate your baby´s brain.
Reading also helps reduce stress, stimulates the brain, increases vocabulary, and may help enrich your imagination.
Conclusion
Exploring new passions and nurturing self-care through engaging hobbies during pregnancy can help elevate your physical, mental, and emotional health and wellness.
Relaxation, self-care, and doing things you enjoy can only enhance this joyous yet delicate time. There are many benefits of engaging in relaxing and safe hobbies during pregnancy. Hobbies like gentle yoga, prenatal Pilates, swimming, gentle strolls/walks, DIY crafts, cooking, baking, journaling, scrapbooking, and reading can significantly reduce stress, increase calm, keep you from gaining excess weight, and prepare and strengthen you for labor and delivery.
Pregnancy is a crucial time for mom and baby, and you want to ensure that you do what it takes to be healthy and happy during this glorious time.
FAQs
A. Can I start a new hobby during pregnancy?
Answer: Yes, you can start a new hobby during pregnancy as long as it is safe and does not pose any risk to your health or your baby. Engaging in hobbies can be a positive way to relax, reduce stress, and enhance your pregnancy experience. However, it is essential to choose gentle activities (low-impact) that do not involve any potential harm to you or your developing baby.
Some suitable hobbies during pregnancy include walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, reading, knitting, or engaging in creative pursuits. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new activity to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health conditions.
B. Are there any hobbies I should avoid during pregnancy?
Answer: While many hobbies can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy, there are some high-risk activities you should avoid during this time, such as
High-impact sports (horseback riding, skiing, contact sports)
Scuba diving (risk of decompression sickness and gas embolism)
Activities with excessive heat exposure (any activities involving prolonged exposure to high temperatures)
Heavy lifting (avoid strenuous activities that put additional strain on your muscles)
Activities with a risk of falling (ice skating, rollerblading, skateboarding, and cycling).
Consult your OBGYN before starting or continuing any hobbies during pregnancy. Your medical provider can give you personalized advice based on your health status and the particular circumstances of your pregnancy.
C. How can I find the time for hobbies while balancing pregnancy-related responsibilities?
It may be challenging to balance pregnancy-related responsibilities with hobbies, but with some planning and prioritization, you can make time for both with these tips:
Create a Schedule (prioritize essential tasks and dedicate specific time slots for your hobbies)
Set Realistic expectations (keep in mind your energy levels will fluctuate during pregnancy, so plan accordingly)
Set up a Support Team (include your partner, family, and friends with communication and delegation of tasks)
Combine activities (listen to an audiobook as you go for a walk, bake, or cook)
Prioritize Self-Care (recognize the importance of self-care for your general well-being)
Choose Flexible Hobbies (engage in hobbies that can easily fit your schedule or can be done any time of the day or night)
Utilize Technology (look for online resources and do them in the comfort of your home)
Be Mindful of Your Health (get the okay from your OBGYN before starting any hobby and listen to your body to prioritize your health.
Take breaks when necessary, and elevate your feet, and relax).
Realize that finding the right balance may require some trial and error. But don´t worry; try to be flexible and adapt your routine as needed, based on your energy levels and changing needs during pregnancy. Taking care of yourself and engaging in enjoyable activities can contribute to a healthier, more positive pregnancy experience.
What about you? Comment below on your thoughts or experiences. we´d love to hear from you.
You may also like:
The Top 15 Things You Didn´t Know About Hobbies But Should | Elevate Healthy Lifestyle Choices
The Ugly Side Effects of Stress and What You Can Do About It | Elevate Healthy Lifestyle Choices
How Can You Make Your Skin Glow? | Elevate Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Dana