Motherhood:l W a E By Rebecca Evans L
ate one night, in the third trimester with my first baby, I was driving home from a shift at State EMS. I had been answering phones and
tuning into radio dialogue among the Idaho Transportation Department’s snowplows, dis- patchers, and emergency response teams. In many remote areas of Idaho, snowplows are needed as the first response to pave the way for a rescue. The calls were intense and emo- tional. After my shift, fat snowflakes stuck to my windshield and the plows were out in full force. My tears, mostly of gratitude, were fall- ing as hard as the snow and I had to pull over due to blurry vision. A short time later, an officer pulled in behind me and asked if I was all right. “I’m just so happy we have these guys plowing,” I managed through gulps and tears. During that first pregnancy, I found myself crying louder through movies and hugging everyone I knew a bit more tightly. Though every pregnancy varies and
we each handle hormonal and physiological changes differently, one thing carries certain- ty—change is stressful. And this can affect
our moods and emotional constitution. At a time when many women feel the pressure to be elated, joyful, and glowing, they are often filled with conflicting emotions too, like anxiety and worry. The pressure to feel wonderful can encourage us to hide our complicated mood changes, wearing a happy face when we feel like crying instead. In fact, the six to 12 weeks that fol-
low childbirth see about 15 percent of new mothers becoming depressed. Add in unpredictable newborn events such as health challenges or infant irritability, and you have compounded the situation. The truth is that most women should feel sleep-deprived and overwhelmed, and experience changes in appetite and libido, both during and follow- ing pregnancy. In other words, feeling stress and frus-
tration throughout gestation and delivery is normal. To keep quality of life during this time is crucial to our well-being. Below are some techniques that can help keep emo- tions a bit more level and shift your mindset to something more positive:
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1. Exercise. The more consistent you can be during and after pregnancy with a fitness regime, the better you will feel physically and mentally. Exercise will help keep your weight at a healthy level and also aid in a quicker recovery following childbirth. Classes such as prenatal yoga, aquatics, and other non- impact aerobic activities are a perfect place to begin. Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. This is important for you and your baby’s safety. 2. 5 + 2 = 7 Breathing Technique. There are many great methods of breathwork that help de-stress, re-focus, and relax your body and mind. Studies indicate that some of these techniques work physiologically by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure. The 5 + 2 = 7 Technique is a favorite of mine that I offer in workshops and classes. Here’s the process: breathe in through your nose for a count of five. Hold your breath for a count of two. Exhale through your mouth for a count of seven. Repeat at least three times. 3. Journal. The page offers a non-judg- mental place to hash out emotions, problem- solve, gain clarity, and express oneself. One technique I recommend is meditative journaling. Start by lighting a candle in a quiet place. Lay out several colored pieces of paper, markers, crayons, watercolors, etc. Set your timer for three minutes and close your eyes, clearing your mind. When three min- utes have passed, choose something to write or draw with and begin, allowing images and thoughts to rush onto the page. Do not edit. 4. Socialize: Community – PlayGroups – Friends and Family. Socializing can be one of the most challenging pieces for new par- ents. It seems easier to just stay home and be germ-free for the first few months, but this can easily turn into the first few years before you know it. Connection through groups is a great way to make new friends for you and your baby. It is also an important step to gaining adequate support. Seek out friend- ships and groups that offer advocacy, valida- tion, and advice (when needed).
(Continue on page 28) 26 TREASURE VALLEY FAMILY MAGAZINE | May 2012
BABY RESOURCES
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