Pregnancy is a beautiful but confusing part of life. There are so many sources of information that it’s difficult to know what advice to take. If you desire a more holistic approach, these books will nourish your mind, body, and spirit so that you have a healthy motherhood experience.
The Fourth Trimester
After giving birth, you might think your pregnancy is over. Your body, however, is going through rapid, radical changes. “The Fourth Trimester” by Kimberly Ann Johnson helps you to heal on every level — physical, emotional, and spiritual. The transition from pregnancy to motherhood is complicated, and this book guides you from preparing yourself for delivery to coping with the swirl of postpartum hormones. It uses wisdom from herbalism, Ayurveda, and more.
Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth
Ina May Gaskin, the author of this book, is a renowned midwife who advocates for natural births. If you’re interested in giving birth at home or on your own terms in a birthing center, “Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth” gives you the details you need for a safe, joyful, fulfilling experience. It describes the process of childbirth and gives tips for how to get through it without drugs or heavy medical intervention. It stresses that each birth experience is unique.
Nurture: A Modern Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, Early Motherhood—and Trusting Yourself and Your Body
Erica Chidi Cohen’s book offers insights about having a mindful, healthy pregnancy. It covers topics like self-care, coping with changes, preparing for birth, and more. Cohen’s gentle, positive approach is perfect for days when you need a little more confidence. You’ll learn about every stage of pregnancy and how to stay grounded with this guide.
Breathe, Mama, Breathe: 5-Minute Mindfulness for Busy Moms
Being a new mother is full of joy and contentment. It’s also full of fear, stress, sleepless nights, and postpartum depression. Shonda Moralis gives dozens of easy strategies for being more mindful. When your baby has been crying for hours and you haven’t slept for days, this book will help you find a moment of stillness. Since stress is bad for you and your baby, “Breathe, Mama, Breathe” is essential reading.