Ice, Ice Baby
Freeze some yummy things that you can eat and slurp. Make your own iceblocks out of smashed watermelon or your favourite iced herbal tea. Make smoothies with lots of frozen fruits and ice.
Dressed for success
Now is really the time for light, breathable clothing. Wear loose-fitting clothing in light colours from natural, breathable materials where possible (like cotton and linen). Cotton will help sweat evaporate rather than stick to your skin and develop rashes and the like.
Get a massage
Getting yourself a professional pregnancy massage could well help with the swelling and any aches, pains and tension you’re carrying around. It’s also another good opportunity to get those feet up, relax and rest.
Out and about
If you’re keeping up your daily walks or just need to run some errands, try to schedule it for early morning before the sun gets too high in the sky and the temperatures start rising, or late afternoon. Carry your water spritzer and a drink bottle. If you’re going travelling, you can break up the journey with a quick walk or some stretches on the way (which will also help minimise things like swelling and heartburn). Consider making siesta time a thing – napping during the hottest parts of the day in a cool, dark room.
Protect your skin
Pregnancy hormones can cause your body to increase its melanin production (responsible for the darker skin that can appear on your face), so make sure to be extra vigilant when in the sun to protect yourself with sunscreens, hats and coverups.
Summer can be an intense time for a pregnant woman, so you need to set yourself up for greatness. Take it easy, escape the sun, be clear with others about what you need and really – stay in the shade (or in the water) as much as you possibly can.
