#13 Mindfully Enjoy a Massage

The following is part of  a series of posts detailing the information in my free download 26 Ways to Prepare Your Heart for Birth.

This is one of my favorite ways to connect with baby because it feels sooooooo good for mama, too! 
No matter which way you are getting massaged, the key is to bring your full awareness to your baby.  I like to first start by listening to my breath. Listen to it as you inhale.... and exhale. Once your mind starts to quiet down, bring your awareness to your growing child.  With each exhale feel your body soften around his or her little body.  You are providing a warm, safe environment for them to grow, so thank your body for the amazing job it is doing of nurturing this little human. 

There are several ways to go about getting massaged. Some are easier and cheaper than others, but all are beneficial to mom and baby! 

Massage Therapist
This is the most decadent way to get massaged. A good prenatal massage therapist will become your best friend, especially late in your pregnancy when every ligament is stretched to the max and every muscle is working overtime. 

Partner Massage
Enlist the help of your partner to give you a massage at the end of a long day.  This is a great way for your partner to connect with you (both physically and emotionally) as well as the baby, too. 

Simple Hand or Foot Massage
You'll need a partner for this, too. Get out your favorite lotion or oil and find a nice peaceful place to put your feet up.  As your partner massages your hands or feet, allow your breath to slow down as you bring your attention to your baby.  Send all your love and energy to him or her as you feel the love your partner has for you, too.  BTW, a simple hand massage is simply divine, you won't realize how much you needed one until you get one!

Self-given Hand Massage
Don't let time, energy or lack of another person around prevent you from connecting with your baby and enjoying the benefits of a massage.  A simple self-given hand massage can often work wonders.  Take off your rings, find your yummiest lotion and spend five minutes massaging your own hands.  Listen to your breath.  Imagine how much work your hands will do for your baby once he or she arrives.  Imagine the meals they will prepare, the tears they will wipe away, the loving embraces they will give. 

No matter how you get massaged, the important thing is that you are taking some time out of your busy day to connect with your child.

In the comments, tell us how you plan on working a massage into your day today.