Massage for pregnancy and postnatal care
Linda Cook is a massage therapist, NCT Antenatal Teacher, and NCT Birth Companion.
Would you like to feel pampered and nurtured? A massage during your pregnancy will provide you with time to relax, unwind and connect with your baby.
You may also be aware of your body’s changing shape and you may be experiencing one or more of the discomforts associated with pregnancy:- headaches, sinus congestion, stretch marks, oedema (puffiness) in your hands and/or feet, sciatica, back, neck or shoulder discomfort, cramp, insomnia, anxiety….
Massage can help alleviate these discomforts by releasing tightness in the muscles around your neck, shoulders, upper and lower back which can cause headaches, sinus problems and possibly sciatica too. Oedema in your feet and hands can be uncomfortable and massage can help to reduce the fluid retention. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by the oedema in your hands and I can show you exercises to minimise the discomforts you may be experiencing with this condition.
Massage improves skin tone and elasticity whilst helping to minimise stretch marks. Gentle massage will improve your circulation, helping oxygen, nutrients and waste products more efficiently to and from your own body tissues and your baby’s placenta.
On your first appointment we will spend some time getting to know each other and discuss your general health and also how you’ve been feeling during your pregnancy. Whether you are in the 1st, 2nd or 3rd trimester the massage treatments will be gentle and adapted specifically for your needs on the day. For your comfort and to allow for your growing baby, various positions may be used whilst supporting your changing body with pillows.
Postnatally, massage can be very helpful whilst you adjust to your new life as a mum as it is still important that you find time to rest and relax. Massage is very beneficial at this time to minimise and prevent any discomforts that you may be feeling. On an emotional level, massage may help to alleviate any feelings associated with postnatal depression. Babies are very welcome to join you for any postnatal session as they also find it a comforting time relaxing and bonding with their mum.
As a massage therapist I enjoy working with mums and babies as I feel it’s a very important time in a woman’s life. My experiences as an NCT antenatal teacher and birth companion have enhanced my skills, providing me with additional knowledge and tools to share with you within your session.
If you would like any more information or would like to have a chat about how I may be able to help you, please call Linda on 0118 9697461