The third trimester can be an exciting, but exhausting, time! It can be tempting to rush around doing all of the last minute things you want to get done before baby arrives. Combine that with the “nesting” urge, and many women find that they are over-doing it when they might actually benefit more from slowing down and allowing themselves to begin to prepare for the birth in a more intentional way.
Here are a few of my favorite relaxing DIYs for moms during their third trimester! Keep in mind I am not a medical professional, and these recommendations are based on a normal, healthy pregnancy. I also only use the highest-quality essential oils in my DIY projects and do NOT recommend using cheap ones, especially while pregnant! There isn’t a lot of regulation in the essential oil industry, and cheapo drugstore “oils” do not belong on your body.
With that in mind, have fun using these ideas to help promote a more relaxed third trimester!
Easy Lavender Bath Soak
- 1 Cup Epsom Salt
- 3-4 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
- Mix and pour into a bath
If you love your baths like I do, make a big batch and store in a large mason jar to use whenever you want! Don’t have a bath big enough for your pregnant self? Use it as a foot soak instead for those achy feet.
Simple Belly Cream
- 1/2 Cup Organic Coconut Oil
- 5 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
- 5 Drops Frankincense Essential Oil
- Mix and rub on belly after showering or before bed
This mix is great for skin health, and you can change up the base however you want! I used coconut oil, but you could use jojoba oil, shea butter, or your favorite natural moisturizer.
Mint-Free Massage Oil
- 1/4 Cup Organic Coconut Oil (or your massage oil of choice)
- 2 Drops Copaiba Essential Oil
- 2 Drops Cypress Essential Oil
- 2 Drops Grapefruit Essential Oil
- Mix and massage into calves and ankles nightly to help maintain normal circulation
Of course you could use this as a full-body massage oil as well! I wanted to create a mint-free massage recipe (some women avoid peppermint during pregnancy) that would not only smell and feel amazing, but also help promote circulation.
What are your favorite ways to care for your body during pregnancy and beyond? I would love to hear if you try these recipes, or if you have other favorites that you recommend to expecting Mamas!
Bethany Birth Services 