by Simone Walter

Created on: December 02, 2009   Last Updated: December 06, 2009

Pregnancy. Just hearing the word makes me stifle a yawn.

First of all, your body is going through some major changes here! Your hormones are in overdrive and your body is preparing itself for growing a little person! By doing so it is doing everything in its power to make sure your little one has a comfortable stay. Your body is adjusting itself and is putting your needs second in order to ensure that your baby can survive in the best circumstances possible. If you are attempting to fight fatigue, you are simply setting yourself up for more exhaustion.

Take a moment to think about what your body is busy creating. It is perfectly normal to be tired during pregnancy, especially during your first and final trimester. Give yourself a break and try to understand that there is nothing wrong with feeling tired during this time. Try to ease the pressure and guilt that comes with today's busy lifestyle. We are constantly trying to get ahead in our careers, social circuits, relationships etc. that we often forget what it feels like to just relax and be content with silence and ourselves. Let your pregnant body be your guide. Listen to it carefully and don't ignore it. When it tells you to take it slow, take it slow.

Here are a few tips for what you can do to up your energy levels during pregnancy:

SLEEP. This is by far the most important and effective factor when it comes to alleviating fatigue. Go to bed early and try to get at least 9 hours of sleep. Have an afternoon nap. If you are working throughout your pregnancy, have a quick nap during your lunch hour. Sleep late on weekends. Give your body the rest it deserves.

TIME-OUT. Cut down on social activities. Make time for yourself to just relax and lie down with a book or your favourite T.V. series.

HEALTHY EATING. Ensure that your body gets all the nutrients it requires.Take pre-natal vitamins throughout the entire course of your pregnancy. Eat at least 5 portions of different fruit and/ or vegetables today. As mentioned previously, your body is putting your babies needs first and will provide all the nutrients to your baby before it thinks about you. Make sure you incorporate enough calcium, iron and folic acid into your diet. Your body requires at least 300 extra calories a day. Make sure these calories come from healthy food sources.

DAILY MODERATE EXERCISE. Keep your body fit by doing light cardio exercise e.g. swimming and walking on a daily basis. This will ensure that you keep your energy levels stable. If you experience any discomfort during light exercise, and if you are carrying twins consult your doctor before continuing with any exercise routine. Exercise also relieves stress and will help you sleep better at night.

H2O. Ensure that you drink plenty fresh water every day. Drink at least 8 glasses. Dehydration is a major cause of fatigue. Keep a bottle of water easily accessible in your room, in the kitchen and on your desk.

In conclusion, enjoy this special time in your life. Allow yourself to really experience your pregnancy and to take in all the new feelings both physically and emotionally and don't fight against them. Pregnancy is life altering and should not be brushed off lightly. Let your body go through all it needs to go through and allow yourself to adjust to things gracefully.

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