Stress and tension are parts of life, but often we’re not aware of how much stress/tension impact our bodies. From stiff shoulders to clenched jaws, our bodies hold onto tension in ways that affect not only our physical well-being but our mental health too. The first step in managing stress effectively is learning to recognize where tension resides in your body so you can then release it.

Anticipatory anxiety occurs when we feel anxious about future events, sometimes even long before the event is to take place. It's the anxiety about feeling anxiety. It’s the “what if” voice in your head that anticipates the worst-case scenarios long before they ever happen. What’s particularly challenging about anticipatory anxiety is that it can be self-reinforcing: we become anxious about becoming anxious in the future, trapping us in a vicious cycle that often increases the very symptoms we hope to avoid.

Overstimulation has become an inescapable reality in today’s hyper-connected world, but its impact on mental health should not be overlooked. By recognizing the signs of overstimulation and taking intentional steps to manage sensory input, we can protect our mental well-being and create space for clarity, calm, and balance. Remember, it’s okay to step back, unplug, and find stillness in a world that often feels too loud. Your mental health will thank you for it.

Taking the time to plan for your mental health during pregnancy is a powerful investment in your future well-being. By proactively managing stress, building a strong support system, and preparing emotionally, you set the stage for a healthier and more fulfilling postpartum experience.

As you prepare for this new chapter, it’s crucial to consider not just the practical aspects of baby care, but also how you and your partner will navigate the postpartum period together. Planning ahead and increasing communication, dismantling myths, coping with stressors, and discussing roles can make a significant difference in your experience as new parents.

So why does it matter if we practice mindfulness? Well, it has been proven to have a multitude of benefits, here are just a few:

Mom/parent shame is characterized by feelings of inadequacy and inferiority as a mother. It can be brought on by societal, familial, or internal factors. Mom/parent shame includes negative self-judgments and comparisons. Comparison, especially on social media, exacerbates feelings of inadequacy, shame, and isolation. The constant negative self-judgments and “never feeling good enough” impacts the parenting experience on a daily basis.