Posture is the position in which you hold your body while standing, sitting, or lying down. Good posture during pregnancy involves training your body to stand, walk, sit, and lie in positions where the least strain is placed on your back.
As your pregnancy progresses, everyday activities such as sitting and standing can become uncomfortable. Following good postures and regular pregnancy exercises (supervised by an expert) could help you avoid certain common aches and pain related to increasing baby bump. Here are few Do’s and Don’ts that will help you improve your posture during pregnancy and keep your body happy.
Do’s
- Irrespective of what your doing – cooking or working on a desk, remember to take a break every few hours
- Take a longer meal break every four hours
- Vary work positions continuously, from sitting to standing and walking.
- While sitting – use small pillow or cushion to provide extra support for your back
- Keep your hips and knees at a right angle when sitting (use a foot rest or stool, if needed). Your feet should be flat on the floor. (See this video to understand good posture for sitting: Good posture)
- While sitting, Point your feet in the same direction, with weight balanced evenly on both feet
- Sleep on your left side with knees slightly bent with a pillow between your knees
- Try simple stretches or any sort of movements to keep the blood flowing. (Contact a ReLivaTM expert for a customized stretching program as per your stage of pregnancy)
- Try to practice relaxation techniques for stress free pregnancy. Learn more : F.A.B. Moms
- If you have to, then use both your hands to lift a weight.
- Even when you’re lifting something light, proper form can spare your back. Bend at your knees, not your waist. Keep the load close to your body, lifting with your legs — not your back.
- While standing, hold your head up straight with your chin in. Keep shoulder blades back and your chest forward, knees straight, buttocks tucked in.
Don’ts
- Avoid prolonged standing.
- Avoid sitting in the same position for more than 30 mins
- Avoid crossing the leg while sitting
- Avoid sitting in lounging position or chair
- Don’t worry about frequent urination due to drinking plenty of fluids. It only gives you extra chance to change your position and move around.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach
- Minimise heavy lifting, climbing or carrying.
- Avoid bending from waist. Only bend your knees while lifting
- Avoid twisting your body while lifting
- Do not wear high heels. The arches of your feet should be supported with low-heeled (but not flat) shoes to prevent stress on your back
Expecting moms who have participated in FAB Moms, a Prenatal Exercise Program have often reported lesser pregnancy related pains. To learn more about FAB Moms, click here.
Related Articles:
Benefits of exercise during Pregnancy
Pregnancy related common Aches & pains
Happy & Fit Pregnancy ; Back to Shape afterwards
Infographic on Why Exercise while Pregnant
FAB Moms, Prenatal Care Program
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