Pregnancy is a life-changing event, and Ayurveda stresses that a woman should be in good health before becoming pregnant to help the chances of the baby being healthy and to make the pregnancy and delivery go more smoothly.  Ayurveda also says that the father should also be in good health, as it is the constitutions of both parents that determine the constitution of the baby.  Both parents need to cultivate love and affection during the pregnancy, so that the child feels it as well.  Here are other ayurvedic recommendations during pregnancy:

-Diet: No drugs, caffeine or alcohol.  No extremes of any kind – no de-toxing or drastic dieting.  Follow a Vata pacifying diet.  Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, whole grains.  Listen to the signals your body gives you.  Drink lots of fresh water.

-Exercise: Gentle exercise like walking, swimming, and yoga is good.  A pre-natal yoga class may be beneficial to understand what modifications are necessary.  Avoid any strain.

-Stress: Cut back on your workload as much as possible.  Use your support system, friends and family, to help you out.  Take care of yourself mentally, physically and emotionally.

-Rest: Takes naps when your body signals you to do so.  Make sure you get enough sleep at night.

-Massage: Abhyanga (ayurvedic self massage) is a wonderful daily practice.  Pay special attention to the belly to avoid stretch marks.  An ayurvedic massage therapist can help to stimulate marma points to relieve some of the discomforts that come with pregnancy, like sciatica, heartburn, or swelling.

-Meditation: Meditation is especially beneficial during pregnancy to help you relax and relieve stress.  Enjoy quiet times by yourself before the baby comes!