Feeling Beautiful During Pregnancy
by Mia Cronan

People say, "You're glowing!," or "You look so healthy!" These things are nice to hear, but do we really believe it when we hear them?

One of the toughest things that a pregnant woman deals with during a healthy, problem-free pregnancy is feeling beautiful in spite of her physical growth. People say, "You're glowing!," or "You look so healthy!" These things are nice to hear, but do we really believe it when we hear them? It's easy to get caught up with the modern vision of how a woman should look. That, of course, includes a tiny waist and minimal hips. We sure do put a lot of pressure on ourselves, don't we?!

Feel good about your appearance
The easy thing to do would be to just ride the tide until the pregnancy is over and just don't make a fuss over your appearance. I bet we would all agree, however, that that's not the answer. Instead, we ought to take a few extra minutes per day just to make sure that we feel really ready to be seen, even if it's only by the grocery clerk It can certainly affect how you come across to people, how you feel about yourself, and how you deal with your children. If you feel ready for the world each day, you are more likely to respond to challenges with enthusiasm rather than dread or, worse, self-pity.

By this, it isn't meant to say that you should don a dress and pearls each day. June Cleaver had her moment in the history books with that one. Simply stated, take some time for yourself, even if it means getting up 15 to 30 minutes earlier than normal in order to do so. Here are some suggestions to give part of your day back to you:

Set yourself on the path to a good day.
  When your day begins, before you start that first load of laundry or pull out the bucket and mop, sit down with a glass of juice and a little breakfast. It's not good for your digestion to get bites on the run between household chores. Have a seat!

  How many times do we hear that we should drink 8-10 glasses of water per day? It's really true, and if this routine is followed, your skin and your digestion will benefit greatly. Plus, think of all the exercise you get just running to the restroom! Your baby certainly needs the fluids, too, especially while the amniotic fluid is increasing.

  Try to get your shower before anyone else is awake, including your husband and your kids. You might also consider showering before you go to bed to get a jump on things.

  Maintain a simple hairstyle. Now might not be the time to "let it grow out" because that involves day after day of frustration until you get it where it should be. Stay with a familiar, flattering style that creates minimal work for you and with which you feel comfortable.

  If you are one to wear make-up when you go out, try just a dab even if you would not normally wear it just to run errands.

  Our husbands' clothes make great maternity clothes, but have one or two things just for you that flatter your pretty, maternal shape.

  When you get a minute all to yourself at some point in the day, take that opportunity to relax, even if it's just for 30 minutes. Pick up a book, do some needlework, write a letter, or peruse a magazine. This might even be a good time for a short snooze!

Remember, Mom, you'll feel better about yourself and the day ahead if you make a small part of the day all yours. Your family will be glad you did it!

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