It cannot be said that the weeks of pregnancy are easy on the body.  Fatigue, morning sickness, increased weight causing strain on other joints, swelling of ankles/legs and hands - among other symptoms associated with bringing a new life into the world!  There really is no better time to have someone else at the ready to spend some time looking after you. 

Pregnancy massage is based on Swedish Massage techniques - the key difference is in the positioning of your body.  Your comfort is paramount!  Previously massage tables with holes in the 'belly area' have been used by practitioners, however it is more common (and apparently more comfortable!) to have your massage in side-lying, bolstered with plenty of pillows.  

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

• Reduction of stress hormones and anxiety
• Improvement of mood
• Rejuvenation of energy 
• Some women report reduction of nausea and heartburn
• Relieves the everyday aches and pains associated with pregnancy
• Reduction of oedema (swelling) due to increased pressure on the lymphatic vessels.
• Reduction of sciatic pain
• Increased relaxation - especially beneficial as delivery day approaches!
• Allows pregnantwomen to completely stop what they are doing and focus on the pleasure of having someone else do something just for them.
• Improved sleep due to feeling less muscle tension and generally less uncomfortable.

Not only that, but once you have your precious bundle in the outer world, you can bring them along and learn some great (and safe!) massage techniques to learn on them too!
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Book with stacey at oxford women's health

Book with stacey at body centraL