Summer Pregnancy: The Art of Slowing Down

Focus: Doula Care & Acupuncture

Being pregnant in the heat of June and July is a true masterclass in surrender. Your body is already a 24/7 furnace growing a human soul; adding a humid Minnesota afternoon to the mix can feel like a lot.

As your doula, my biggest piece of advice for the summer months is this: Give yourself permission to be "unproductive." In our culture, we pride ourselves on "doing it all" until the moment of labor. But summer pregnancy calls for the "wisdom of the lily"—standing still and just being.

Physically, the heat causes our vessels to dilate, leading to the dreaded "cankles" and heavy legs. This is where acupuncture is a miracle worker. We can help move that stagnant fluid (edema) and take the pressure off your system.

Hippie Tip: Find a body of water—a lake, a pool, even a foot bath. Gravity is your enemy right now, and buoyancy is your best friend. Floating takes the weight off your pelvic floor and reminds your body that it is supported by the Earth. You are doing enough just by breathing.