HOW TO DE-STRESS WHILE PREGNANT: 7 TIPS FOR A MINDFUL SURROGACY JOURNEY

As a surrogate, you play an important role in turning dreams of parenthood into reality. Embarking on this surrogacy journey is an incredible experience, filled with joy and anticipation. However, it can also bring its fair share of stress and emotional challenges, especially during pregnancy. Finding ways to stay centered and maintain your well-being while ensuring a healthy and positive journey is vital—not just for the baby you are carrying but also for yourself.

STRESS AND PREGNANCY: ITS EFFECTS ON YOU & THE BABY

Because stress directly impacts your health and the baby’s, managing stress and maintaining your well-being is important. High levels of stress can increase your risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and postpartum depression. This can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.

7 TIPS TO REDUCE STRESS DURING PREGNANCY

Striving for healthy well-being ensures you have the physical and emotional strength needed to support a growing baby, foster a positive pregnancy experience, and promote better outcomes for you and the baby. Prioritizing self-care, relaxation, and emotional support helps create a nurturing environment essential for your surrogacy journey. If you are wondering how to de-stress while you're pregnant, here are 7 tips to help you maintain mindfulness throughout this unique experience.

1. Prioritize Self-Care.

Make rest, exercise, and proper nutrition a part of your self-care routine. Pregnancy requires extra rest, so ensure you get plenty of sleep and take naps as needed. Getting enough rest is vital for your physical and mental well-being.

Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is equally important for maintaining energy levels and reducing stress. Engage in gentle exercises like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming. These activities can help reduce stress, improve mood, and keep your body healthy.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation.

Engaging in breathing exercises, guided meditation, and mindful activities can help you de-stress. Simple breathing exercises can work wonders in calming your mind and reducing anxiety. Practice deep, slow breaths to center yourself during stressful moments. For guided meditation, use apps or online resources specifically tailored for pregnancy or surrogacy journeys. These can provide a structured way to relax and focus on positive thoughts.

Engage in activities that promote mindfulness such as coloring, journaling, or listening to calm music. These can help you stay present and focused on the positive aspects of your journey.

3. Stay Connected.

Leaning on your loved ones and your community can make your journey as a surrogate less stressful. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with your family and friends. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in managing stress.

Joining surrogate support groups, either online or in-person, can connect you with others who understand your experiences. Sharing stories and advice can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. Staying connected is a reminder that you are not alone in your journey.

4. Create a Relaxing Environment.

Set up a cozy and comfortable space in your home where you can relax and unwind. This might include soft lighting, music, comfortable seating, and calming décor. Use essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus to create a calming atmosphere. Aromatherapy can enhance relaxation and help you de-stress.

5. Set Boundaries.

Limit stressors and unplug from your routine. Identify and limit exposure to things that stress you out. This might include reducing time spent on social media or avoiding negative conversations. Protecting your mental space is essential.

6. Ask for Help.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help with daily tasks and responsibilities. Delegating tasks can free up time and energy for you to focus on self-care and relaxation. Lean on your support system and ask them for assistance early. Don’t wait until you find yourself too overwhelmed.

7. Pamper Yourself.

Prenatal massage can be a wonderful way to relax and relieve physical discomforts associated with pregnancy. Make sure you go to a therapist trained in prenatal care. Taking warm baths can soothe your muscles and help you unwind as well. Add some Epsom salt or a few drops of essential oil for an extra touch of relaxation.

Remember: Not all pregnancies are the same, and every pregnancy requires different levels of care, both medical and self-care. Each surrogacy journey is unique. Consult with your healthcare provider and surrogacy team of professionals for guidance and direction on the best ways to take care of yourself during your pregnancy.

Cultivate a mindful and less stressful surrogacy journey by integrating these tips into your daily routine. Taking care of your well-being is important. Embrace this experience, and you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling journey as a surrogate.

At Growing Generations, we offer attentive support and a variety of resources for our surrogates. If you're still considering becoming a surrogate, please reach out to us online to get started.