Shiatsu and Pregnancy

Dionne Hemsley

Shiatsu is an excellent form of treatment for pregnant women. For starters, it can help to ease nausea. In later stages, it will ease the stress and strain on the expanding body and its change of alignment. For example, a shiatsu treatment will lessen hip and back strain. A full body treatment can be given in side position so there is no worry of lying on one's back or front which can be uncomfortable after the first trimester. As well, the expecting mother can keep her comfy clothes on during the treatment. Closer to the due date, shiatsu can even induce labour!

There are some trimester specific concerns that many women have. During the first trimester, fatigue and morning sickness are the most common complaints. Drinking spearmint, peppermint, raspberry leaf, or bancha tea will help to diminish nausea. In the second trimester, edema (swelling), hemorrhoids, low back pain, inguinal strain, and leg fatigue may happen. Some women get congested as well. All these conditions can be a result of Dampness. Eating rice and daikon (Chinese radish) help to drain Dampness. Constipation is a chief complaint during the third trimester. Real black licorice, from a health food store, can alleviate slow bowel motility. Of course, there are key pressure points your shiatsu therapist can use in the treatment of all the above conditions.

Some general points for self-care during pregnancy are:

Exercise! It helps to prevent Dampness and Qi Stagnation (when your energy becomes "stuck").

Meditation and relaxation help to produce a calm child.

Diet should be light and bland. Spicy foods can damage your Yin.

Protein in the diet should be moderate. Too much will cause Dampness.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they also create Dampness as well as leeching out vitamins and minerals.

Greasy, fried, oily foods as well as cold foods (ie. raw vegetables, juice) create Dampness.

Cravings are usually what your body needs when you are pregnant so give in!

If you are interested in more information, you can contact me at the clinic. Good luck with your pregnancy and enjoy your own miracle!

© 2008 Balance Shiatsu