Positive thinking: The role of optimism in a healthy pregnancy

 

Art: luckycharmznet/Pixabay

Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference, said a statesman many years ago.

Whether one's concerns revolve around governance, business matters, friendship or personal improvement, a person's outlook definitely has a major bearing on the way affairs turn out. Even the way we face our own experiences -- dragging our heels or looking resolutely at what needs to be done -- determines the outcome (not to mention the extent to which we learn from the experience). Hence, if you're regarding pregnancy with less optimism than you'd like, here are thoughts to help bring our that sunshine in the way you look at this stage in your journey as a mom:

It's easier to think positive when you're in tiptop shape, so prioritize healthy eating

Maintaining a balanced diet is not the concern solely of expectant moms. It's a must for anyone who cares about herself. Therefore, with the guidance of your doctor, load up on nutritious foods and cut down on anything loaded with fat, salt and sugar. 

Too much sodium in your diet contributes to edema (now who would relish swollen feet and hands?), and fatty food can aggravate nausea. You'll be surprised how good you're going to feel after only a month or two of consistently eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking adequate amounts of water and taking none or hardly any of those caffeinated and carbonated drinks.

Hence, on the rare occasions that you decide to share a slice of cake with the hubby or enjoy a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor, it will be a real treat, a bonus -- not one of a series of weekly bingeing to send you on a sugar rush.

Focus on your unborn baby who's raring to meet you

"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye," states Antoine de St. Exupery in The Little Prince. This may be true and a necessary reminder especially nowadays when appearance and externals seem to be exalted more than virtue and character.

Whenever you look at yourself in the mirror, though, it may be difficult to overlook the frumpy profile, the darkened neck and navel, and the general "blah" that seems to be the only fashion statement you are capable of making during these months. What is essential may be invisible to the eye, but the visible elements are easier to remember! Cheer up! Beyond those undesired bulges all over is the beautiful reason for the growing bulge right in the middle: the tiny human being who is your baby.

Focus on your growing bundle of joy and you will realize that the discomforts are nothing compared to this tiny person who will, in a few months, learn to call you "mama." So keep him (or her) in mind and the positive vibes will overpower any pessimism that is threatening to set in.

Why are you gaining all that weight? Why are you putting up with all the fatigue and backaches? Why are you making sure you eat only healthy food? Why are you making lifestyle changes that you wouldn't otherwise  make? Look at the big picture -- it's all for the love of your baby. When you look in the mirror, let yourself be reminded of this wondrous fact and you'll feel more positive.

'The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best'

In The Paper, the 1990s flick starring Michael Keaton, Robert Duvall and Glenn Close, Marisa Tomei's pregnant Martha spends lunch with a tactless acquaintance. This acquaintance proceeds to spew out a litany of horrible situations that Martha can expect due to her pregnancy; Martha, of course, is terrified. The horror stories are mostly exaggerated and downright false. Needless to say, this is not the kind of person to hang out with if you want your pregnancy and childbirth experience to be a positive one. No point in chitchatting with someone who subscribes to such beliefs as "When you're pregnant, you have one foot in the grave" and other such outdated and alarmist assertions.

In fact, take to heart the wisdom of Greek philosopher Epictetus, who stated: "The key is to keep company with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best."

Spend time with good friends who will support you through this very special time in your life and help you see the joys of motherhood. It's also good to get together with other mothers if you're on your first pregnancy -- there's a lot to learn from the experience and wisdom of others.


Baby magazine
January 2010