My Body is Changing (and I'm Freaking out!)

Today I am 12 weeks pregnant. I have gained 8 pounds and my cravings for the week were mostly Chipotle, Matzoh Ball Soup and FroYo. Yeah, I've been making some real healthy choices...

I'm not going to lie, I've always looked forward to pregnancy. It's like an excuse to stick my belly out all the time! But now, I'm starting to freak out a little bit. I've worked hard for my body and I don't want to get all puffy and swollen. I didn't expect to feel this way.

I am however, very excited to start focusing on other healthy ways to keep my body aligned, mobile, and fit. I'm getting ready for the most physically intense experience of my life.. I'm giving birth! To prepare myself for what's coming, I'm participating in a two day workshop called Healthy Baby, Healthy Pregnancy. If you want to join me tomorrow, the workshop is completely FREE and there is so much useful information both pre, during and post pregnancy. I am excited to share with you everything that I'm learning.

Here are a few things that I've touched base on already but I'm realizing are even more important now that I'm expecting:

• Breathing: Using deep breathing is a direct way to immediately effect the physiology of your body. Heart rate, your parasympathetic and sympathetic response systems can change your entire state of breathing. That's why nearly every birthing class will show you different techniques to utilize your breath. Start practicing correct breathing techniques by reading my post Inhale, Exhale.

• Posture: With all the added weight on the body, making sure your spine and hips are aligned are key to preventing aches and pains. Additionally, since the pelvis will be the birth path in which the baby will travel, pay extra attention to my post Spine Bone's Connected to the Hip Bone.

• Massage: I've discussed two different methods for a DIY massage. My post Massage, Anyone? shows you how to release the soft tissue using a tennis ball or la cross ball. My very first video I posted was on Foam Rolling, take a look at the benefits here. 

• Hydration: Making sure that you're staying hydrated is even more important during pregnancy since you'll need it for things like amniotic fluid, extra blood supply and to keep your body toxin free. Check out how much water you should be drinking on a daily basis and consider taking the Water Challenge.

I look forward to sharing even more in depth information with you over the next few weeks and months. Stay healthy, babes xoxo