5 Tips for Less-Stress Vacations During Pregnancy

Inner Breathing

There may be times when stress is unavoidable even with the right preparation and attitude. When times become stressful, try this ten-minute, self-healing technique suggested by Gurry and created by Del Pe, author of Inner Powers to Maximize Your Performance:

Imagine that you are in front of a beautiful ocean. Breathe deeply and slowly and relax. During exhalation, have the intention to breathe out your negativities and discomforts. Inhale deeply and then breathe out any discomfort, tension, or pain in your body. Let the ocean absorb the discomforts and impurities. Inhale deeply and breathe out any emotional stress and discomfort. All fears, guilt, or worries you may be feeling, breathe out, and relax. Include any resentment or anxiety. Relax and enjoy your new emotional and mental well-being. Imagine that the ocean is gradually becoming a mixture of pink and golden light. Imagine walking toward the ocean of light. Immerse your entire body with pink and golden light. Feel and be aware, relax, and enjoy the revitalizing energy. Be aware of the center of your chest. This is an area where you can experience love, inner peace, and inner joy. Recall a happy time in your life, feel the joy in your heart. Express this love and gratitude to your family, friends, and co-workers. Affirm that you are a loving and peaceful person. Focus on your heart center while doing deep breathing.

Gurry suggests using this technique twice a week for a couple of weeks before your vacation. Once on your vacation you can continue this exercise to help you relax and enjoy your time away.

Deb Pizzonia, of East Haddam, Connecticut, advises, "Simplify. That in my opinion is the only way to have fun vacationing while pregnant or for that matter with kids!"

Vacation should be a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. The weather may be lousy, the plane may be delayed, the hotel may be overbooked—concentrating on the positives and not the negatives can help you enjoy a stress-free vacation!