Feeling tired and achy is a part of pregnancy. Among all the feelings of this beautiful state, getting tired is very normal. You must feel like you need some extra relaxation and a good time.
Listen to your body state and treat yourself with a massage session. It won’t take long and won’t be hard on your body. A peaceful pregnancy massage will relax and strengthen your body for the next phases. If you feel like jumping into relaxation mode, then it is the right time to book a pregnancy massage.Â
You must be cautious about the session if this is your first pregnancy massage. But don’t worry, here we will guide you through the process for a smooth massage session.
Peaceful Pregnancy Massage
A prenatal massage is done to comfort the mother. Peaceful pregnancy massage therapies use different massage techniques that are gentle, nurturing, and soft on the body. The techniques used in the session provide relaxation and tranquillity to the mother without putting much pressure on the body.
Pregnancy-Friendly Massage Techniques
In a peaceful pregnancy massage spa, you won’t get a typical massage session that is normally carried out. Because prenatal massage is a sensitive therapy for mothers, that’s why soft hand strokes and light pressures are applied to relieve muscle stress. The relaxing session involves using different massage techniques that better support both mother and baby.
The massage therapies include the following different techniques:
Swedish Massage
This is the most common pregnancy massage for mothers-to-be. It uses light pressure, long strokes, and kneading with circular movements on superficial muscle layers (muscles close to the skin).
Myofascial Release Therapy
It is also a gentle and constant massage technique for myofascial tissues (connective tissues supporting muscles).
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle massage on fascia tissues to relieve headaches and neck pain.
Kneading and Effleurage
These two techniques are used simultaneously.
Kneading means using thumbs or palms in a circular motion to compress muscles.
Effleurage comprises long, gliding strokes applied at the beginning and end of a massage session to warm up the muscles and boost circulation.
Petrissage
Petrissage includes a deeper kneading technique, which is useful for treating severe muscle tension.
Sciatic Nerve Relief
Some women also develop sciatic pain during pregnancy due to the additional weight of the belly. But don’t worry. A massage of the lower back, hips, and legs will relieve the muscles and reduce the sciatic pain.
Ultimate Suggestion for Mothers-To-Be: Elemis Peaceful Pregnancy Massage
Normally, methods like Swedish massage, kneading, and effleurage are used in peaceful pregnancy massage sessions. But if you want a more luxurious and special relaxing session, then opt for an Elemis massage.
The Elemis technique is the most popular among all of them. Why? Elemis peaceful pregnancy massage is an umbrella method that uses 10 different massage techniques together. This luxury massage gives the expectant mother a complete feeling of stress relief, tranquillity, and positivity.
The Elimis Method
- A warm towel is placed on the feet.
- The massage is done on the back and legs to relieve stress.
- A lavender pillow is placed over the eyes.
- Tibetan Tingsha bells are rung around the ears to end the session.
Safety Concerns
Of course, as a pregnant woman thinking about getting a massage, many safety concerns will pop into your head. Is it safe? Or do the doctors recommend it? When is the appropriate time for the massage? Yeah, all of these thoughts naturally occur before your session.
So let’s quickly cover them up for you.
Appropriate Timing of Massage
The first thing to remember is that pregnancy massage is never done in the first trimester. Doctors recommend getting a massage treatment after entering the second trimester. It is safe for the expecting mother to get a massage after the first trimester.
Moreover, if you have any other medical issues, asking for a doctor’s opinion before your massage session is recommended. In this way, you will get the right treatment, which is relaxing and safe for both the baby and the mother.
Use of Essential Oils
Another thing to remember is the use of essential oils during massage. There is no research that says it’s harmful to the baby, but for some women, the oils can irritate them. So, it is advisable to talk to your doctor on this topic for the right guidance.
Avoid Massage on Pressure Points
Prenatal massage is always simple and gentle. It is not recommended to put pressure on ankle and wrist joints. Now you would think, why is it so? Well, ankle and wrist joints are those areas where applied pressure can stimulate the uterus and pelvis. So, these two little joints are always avoided during massage.
Tips to prepare for Prenatal Massage
Are you ready for the massage? Here are some tips to follow for a relaxing spa session:
Lying Position of Body
Peaceful pregnancy therapies are all about comfort and safety.
The side-lying position is best for both the mother and the baby. In this position, the woman lays comfortably, and no additional weight is put on blood vessels that could restrict blood flow. This is the best position for a massage.
As the subsequent phases of pregnancy show up, the spas use maternity massage tables to support the growing belly.
Use of Bolsters
For prenatal massage, special pillows are used during the session. They are called bolsters.
Now, the positioning of these bolsters is very important during the massage.
Ensure to use as many pillows as possible for complete comfort. In the session, they put bolsters to support the following joints:
- Under the belly/waist
- Between underarm and chest
- Under the hipbone
- Under knees
- Under ankles
- Under upper arm
Ambience and Supplies
In a peaceful pregnancy massage spa, a good relaxing session can only be achieved if the right atmosphere is created.
The expected mothers have booked a massage session, which means no interruptions or discomfort should be allowed there. It is important to get the massage in a peaceful ambience.
The massage room should be dimly lit with scented candles and acoustic walls.
Another important thing is to always use natural oil for massage. While there may be other products that can be used for massage techniques, it is best to use coconut oil for the session. It is natural, super soft on the skin, completely harmless, and nice to smell during the massage.
Proper Hydration
During pregnancy, fluids are very important. Now, you might think that there is not much need for water intake during a massage, but you are wrong. You need proper hydration during your session too. So, drink extra glasses of water before and after your appointment.
Final Thoughts
Prenatal massage is a wellness and relaxation time for mothers and their growing bellies. It is designed to comfort and refresh your changing body. The massage helps relieve muscle pain and soreness and gives your sensitive body a breath of fresh air.
Now, ready to lay in for a good relaxing session. Just give us a ring at 020 8469 1961 at Meridian Spa to book your peaceful pregnancy massage near Greenwich, London. We are here to serve you.