Has your big bump got you tossing and turning all night? During the last months of pregnancy, it’s hard to find a comfortable position! Here are helpful hints for getting much-needed rest:
A stretch before lying. Just before turning in, try doing some simple, gentle twists, back flexes on all fours and side-to-side stretches to work out the kinks from carrying the baby weight all day.
Have dark time. Avoid watching TV, playing with your phone or iPad or otherwise being exposed to glowing screens in the hours before bed, because the flashing lights can keep your brain from recognizing it’s nighttime.
Pillow it up. Health care providers recommend left-side sleeping to keep pressure off of your circulatory system and liver. If left-side sleeping is uncomfortable for you, try propping up with pillows. Try one between your knees, others to support your belly, arm or shoulder, and even more behind your back.
Somewhere new. Sometimes changing sleeping spaces can do the trick. Some moms-to-be find they’re more comfortable in a reclining chair, couch, or even on the floor.
Try not to try. Sleep is one of those rare things that the harder you try, the harder it is. If you can’t sleep, don’t lie there stressing out about it for more than a half-hour: get up and read, journal or do chores until you feel tired. Studies have found that as labor approaches a mom-to-be’s sleep cycle will actually start to synchronize with her baby’s, so if you find yourself sleeping in three hour stretches and waking up early in the morning and ready for a nap at 10 a.m., know that’s entirely normal. Rarely convenient, but normal. If you have a schedule that lets you nap, take advantage.
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