Families | Pregnancy and babies | Resolutions for Pregnant Mums

Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions for Pregnant Mums

1. Stay positive. Make healthy choices, follow up regularly with your health care provider and enjoy this special time of change.

2. Surround yourself with people who support your choices and who believe in and trust the process of pregnancy and birth. Everything you hear and read should inspire you with trust and confidence in your ability to birth your baby.

3. Make a list of positive affirmations and put them up all over your house to remind you of the miracle taking place in your body.

4. Keep a journal of your thoughts and emotions. Take pictures of your changing body monthly. From the first bump to the first kicks and then the first cry – these are the memories you will cherish forever.

5. Make a cast of your belly at 36 weeks. See www.pregnantinoman.com/belly-casts.html

6. Learn to breathe. Your breath is the single most important tool that will help you throughout pregnancy and labour. Enroll in a class to learn different techniques and when and how to use them effectively.

7. Start prenatal yoga. Yoga is the perfect exercise to tone and prepare your body for all the changes that take place.

8. Rest whenever you can. Your body is constantly working to nourish your baby and you will notice that you feel tired if you do not get enough sleep. Get a boppy pillow or similar towards the end when you are unable to lie comfortably on your back.

9. Talk to your baby. Your baby can hear your voice and is able to distinguish between your voice and your husbands. Read to your baby, have conversations and play music. Notice how your baby responds to different sounds and people.

10. Write a list of the five most important values that you would like to instill in your child.

By Karen Wilmot