On select Tuesdays, I will be posting new Top 10 lists on a variety of topics so stay tuned! Today’s topic is Top 10 Ways to Maintain Self Confidence During Pregnancy. This list was inspired by the people I meet who are struggling with their ever-changing pregnant body. Many say that during their pregnancies, they don’t feel as confident with their body. As someone who has struggled with self image for years, I know personally how important it is to spend a few extra minutes loving yourself. Read on for some suggestions on how to embrace your pregnant body.
- Splurge on at least a few maternity pieces that make you feel fabulous! If you purchase 2-3 pairs of pants and 4-5 tops to mix and match you will feel great in no time. Your body is going to be transforming during pregnancy and it’s easier to feel beautiful in clothing made to highlight the bump instead of regular clothes that you may feel awkward in.
- Treat yourself to a prenatal massage. You may be wondering why a massage can boost your self-esteem but I know from experience when I get done with a massage I feel amazing. There is just something about the relaxing touch that makes all life’s worries disappear and you become rejuvenated instantly. Massages are a great pick-me-up and as a bonus can have great health benefits as well.
- Do your hair and make-up. Now I know this might sound incredibly vain, but taking just a few minutes to spruce up the hair and apply a little make-up can really be a mood booster. I get it, it’s easier to run out the door with a pony tail and naked face but taking a couple minutes can make a huge difference in the way you feel about yourself.
- Give yourself a manicure. When you have a great color nail polish and nicely manicured nails, it will make you feel like a million bucks. And if you have the extra cash, a pedicure is always a nice thing to splurge on!
- Fuel your body with food. Make an effort to have regular meals and snacks throughout the day. When we’re hangry, nothing is ever right in the world 😉
- Exercise. Now this can be as simple as going for a walk with a friend or heading to the gym for your favorite class. As a pregnant person, always speak to your provider about exercising prior to starting or continuing your routine.
- Take a bath or spend at least 15-30 minutes (daily if you can swing it) of uninterrupted time with yourself. We can get so wrapped up in our day to day lives that we constantly forget about us! Make yourself (and your sanity) a priority, especially during pregnancy.
- Start a gratitude journal. I have always loved the thought of trying to be more grateful instead of wishing I had more x, y and z. Changing our way of thinking can have a big impact on how we feel about ourselves.
- Document your baby bump. Our bodies are amazing, there is no doubt about that. If you are feeling uncertain about your pregnant body, keep weekly or monthly photos of your growing belly for motivation. Yes, your body is of course transforming but you are also growing a human! Don’t lose sight of the end result.
- Do not play the comparison game! We are always comparing ourselves to the next person and it’s just not fair. We are all unique individuals and should treat ourselves as such. We all have very different body types and people will progress differently during pregnancy. So do me a favor, leave the comparisons of your pregnant body out of conversations.
These are just a few ways you can boost your self image during pregnancy. During this time you will be experiencing many physical and emotional ups and downs; however, it is important to maintain a healthy self image! If you have any added suggestions or comments, feel free to leave them below.