Pre/Postnatal Massage

Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage ­– to relax tense muscles,  improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But it’s also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies.  I have been trained in prenatal and postnatal massage at the Women’s Hospital in Toronto and will tailor the massage to each clients individual needs.

How do you lie on the table?
Most women find it uncomfortable to lie face down right from the start of pregnancy because of their tender, swollen breasts. And you can’t lie face down on a traditional massage table once your belly has started to grow. On the other hand, it’s not a good idea to lie flat on your back either, particularly once you’re past mid-pregnancy, because the weight of your uterus puts too much pressure on the vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart.

For these reasons, I have an awesome body pillow that molds comfortably to accommodate your belly, and often your breasts as well, so you can lie face down. If you find this position stresses to be uncomfortable (only a small percentage of women) you can lie on your side with the body pillow and it is still extremely comfortable and supportive for your body.

Prenatal Massage Benefits:

• alleviates muscle tension, cramps and spasms in the legs, hips, lower back, rib cage and neck areas
• improved blood and lymph circulation, which can reduce swelling especially in the lower body
• helps prevent possibilities of compensations (ie. poor posture due to expanding belly)
• relaxation and stress reduction, which benefits both mom and growing baby

Postnatal Massage
Postnatal massage is the best way to care for yourself and your baby after birth. As a new mom, you need to take care of yourself while caring for your newborn. It can also help you decrease the discomforts of afterbirth and help you relax and feel cared for during this intense time of your mothering journey.

Postnatal Massage Benefits:

• alleviates muscular tension and fatigue
• improves circulation due to changes in postures as a new mom
• helps to balance hormones and reduce postpartum emotional challenges
• aids in correcting posture, through muscle balance and proper joint alignment techniques