

This article offers some tips for relieving stress at work throughout your pregnancy.
Relaxation for Working Moms-to-Be

The relaxation techniques that you learn now will serve you all your life. Try each method a few times to find out which works best for you. Then practice relaxation for 10 minutes, twice a day. Most people find that it takes a couple of weeks to become proficient. Once you've learned the techniques, you'll be able to do them in the middle of a crowd.

Deep Breathing


Muscle Relaxation


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You've relaxed your body; now it's time for your mind. Concentrate all your attention on the exercise you're doing. Deeply relax all your muscles. Breathe normally through your nose. Repeat a single word or phrase to yourself over and over: this is called a mantra. Chant the word in rhythm with your breathing. Prevent troubling thoughts from entering your consciousness. If they do, refocus. When you're in a deeply relaxed meditative state, your blood pressure and heart rate drop, which enhances your feeling of well-being.


Like mediation, this technique encourages moment-to-moment awareness. Focus on the present only, or the job you are doing, rather than letting your mind wander to what needs to be done or other worries.

Guided imagery

Close your eyes and look within. Picture yourself in a relaxing situation. For example, imagine you're gliding in a canoe over the quiet blue waters of a mountain lake. Listen to the slap of the water on the boat, the sound of a bird singing, and feel the warmth of the sun. Studies have shown that blue is a particularly relaxing color for your imagined scene.

More: Relaxation, Guided Imagery and Visualization Techniques

When and How to Practice


Before you begin practicing, make sure conditions are right. It's best if you can avoid being disturbed. Pick a quiet place and close the door. Take the phone off the hook, if possible.

Sit in a comfortable chair, take your shoes off, loosen your clothing and close your eyes. Don't allow anything to distract you. If your thoughts wander, refocus your attention on the technique.

Make sure you practice at least 10 minutes every day. Take the time during the workday, even if you're very busy. Once you've relaxed, you'll find your efficiency will improve, making up for lost time.

    • The Working Woman's Baby Planner
      The Working Woman's Baby Planner
      The Working Woman's Baby Planner