10 Tips for Surviving Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most amazing miracle you can experience. But that beautiful miracle can sure cause back pains. With my first pregnancy, I was on cloud 9 the whole time. I slept in on the weekends, bought what I wanted, ate what shouldn't have, and everything was peachy. Now with a toddler exploring all her surroundings, I have less time and flexibility to think of everything and be organized. Besides the milk and the prenatal vitamins, there are more ways that'll help you survive your pregnancy - all 40 weeks long.

1. Get a Body Pillow! Unless you still have an 80s water bed and a cushion under every growing curve of yours, this will save your life. It can take a few tries to find your spot, but it's well worth it. Cut those sleepless nights in half. 

2. Indulge your cravings. Ok, so your doctor gave you an unrealistic weight to gain in 10 months. No carbs, more milk, more veggies. yea yea... But if you want that large order of fries or that Rutti Tutti Fresh and Fruity; Do it! Don't go crazy and order every flavor at your local ice-cream parlor. But giving in is not a sign of weakness, it's a sanity saver. Enjoying what you eat can make you and those around you a little bit happier.

3. Get the rub down. If you're like me, I'm a sucker for a good back and foot rub. I probably ask my angel of a husband to massage me every day. And since he doesn't have a little person growing in him, he always agrees. So find your husband, boyfriend, mom, best friend, anyone, to give you the foot rub or the back rub you need and deserve. Seriously, it's what the doctor ordered. 

4. Find a Project. So, 40 weeks can be a LONG time to wait for your munchkin to enter the world. What can you do in the mean time that you wait? Sit home and knit? Find a project. Get your mind off how long you have to wait. Make plans for the nursery, ideas for your shower, wish list for your registry, finding the perfect baby name. As long as your not stressing your self, find a fun project or even hobby to get into. Exhibit A: This blog :) 

5. Sleep. Um... not much to mention here. Enjoy it while it lasts.

6. Family Time. Girl's Night. Date Night. Spending time with your loved ones does the body and soul some good. Going out is still fun and much needed. Soon, your energy and attention will be mainly towards your newborn. It's important to invest your time with the ones you love before this adventure started. Chicken Soup for the Soul anyone?

7. Mani Pedis. Massage Chair, magazine in hand, feet and hands rubbed, pink polish. Need I say more? 

8. Work Out. Some kind of physical activity to keep that heart pumping is definitely a must. Keep healthy. It'll prepare your body when pushing that baby out. Do some walking, yoga, go to the gym, ride a bike. Find something you like and stick to it.

9. Retail Therapy. Shopping for that baby bump, buying cute, little outfits and the latest trend for the nursery. A little shopping can be fun and exciting. It's a girl thing.

10. You choose. What is something that you love to do? Continue to do what you did before you got pregnant. And I don't mean bungee jumping and jello shots! Continue your yoga, travel, your long baths, ::whispering:: love making, cooking, swimming, or a good book. Whatever your hobbies were, or whatever was an escape - that's safe - do it! It'll help you stay you, and it'll help you connect to the old and future you. 

I really hope you found this helpful. Enjoy pregnancy: The good, the ugly, the messy, the amazing.