pregnancy & birth
L&L | AUGUST 2019 | 27WORDS
ANDREA OAKES/BAUER SYNDICATION
PHOTOGRAPHY
SUPPLIED; GALLO IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCK
SEE YOUR
DOCTOR IF...
the swelling develops
suddenly and creeps up
the legs, or develops
around the face, pelvis
or lower back.6 WAYS TO SLIM YOUR LIMBS
DRESS FOR COMFORT
Think about whether what you’re
wearing is helping or hindering the
flow of blood around your body.
Tights that don’t fit well can create
a restrictive band around your
body, as can squeezing into jeans
that aren’t quite big enough for
your bump. Watch out for too-tight
sleeves and remove any snug-fitting
rings before your fingers swell.DITCH THE HEELS
Choose shoes that will accommodate
your swelling feet – think wide
straps and supportive flats. Make
the most of the current sports-luxe
trend and make slip-on trainers
your go-to wardrobe staple.SMOOTH AWAY SWELLING
A gentle hand or foot massage will
help increase circulation. Use 5ml
of a base oil (grapeseed is a good
choice) and a drop or two of a
pregnancy-safe essential oil, such
as lemon, orange or eucalyptus.STRETCH AND BEND
De-puff your ankles by doing a
simple foot exercise three times
a day. While you’re sitting down,
rotate your ankles slowly both ways,
before pointing your toes towards
the ceiling, then down to the floor.REVIVE FEET WITH MINT
Use a peppermint spritz on your
feet during the day. Try PeppermintCooling Foot
Spray, from R120,
thebodyshop.co.za.
In the evening, treat
them to Freeman
Foot Lotion, R89.95, Dis-Chem.BRUSH UP
Using a body brush can boost your
circulation. Starting on the soles of
your feet, use circular strokes and
work up your calves towards your
heart. Try The Body Shop Cactus
Brush, R215, Clicks. LL