What are the things that you can do normally when you are pregnant?

Pregnancy is a beautiful phase of a woman’s life. A pregnant woman is expected to strictly adhere to some do's and don'ts which would help her safely through her pregnancy. A few precautions and a simple routine could be helpful to both her and her baby.

• Practising yoga daily

• Getting a good 8-9 hrs to sleep daily

• Going for a short walk every day

• Taking a dose of multivitamin every day

• Getting proper dosages of calcium, zinc, iron, folic acid and omega 3 as prescribed by the doctor.

• Drinking enough of water and fluids and staying hydrated

• Consuming a nutritious diet rich in fiber, proteins, and iron.

• Eat more green leafy vegetables, salads, whole grains, dairy products like milk, yogurt, and tofu.

• Eat dry fruits like walnuts and dates.

• Eat fresh fruit daily

• Listen to some soft and lilting music to de-stress.

• Get regular health check-ups to be done

• Gain a healthy weight

• If she is a working woman, then, she needs to take rest at regular intervals and take short breaks in between her daily work period so that she doesn’t tire herself

• Instead of having heavy meals she should eat a number of small meals.

• In South India a warm oil massage to legs and arms is suggested, to strengthen the pregnant woman’s body.

• In the Middle East countries, a pregnant woman is asked to solve complex mathematical problems as the belief it will increase the baby's IQ.

• In yet other countries expecting mothers are asked to relax alone and communicate silently and lovingly with the baby in the womb which is believed to enhance the bonding between mother and baby.

• Staying warm and protected during cold weather help in warding off unwanted cold and fever. This also helps to avoid unnecessary medication which is not advisable.

• A cheerful and happy attitude of the mother has a positive effect on the baby.

Motherhood is a boon bestowed upon a woman by God and the laws of Nature. A healthy diet, good exercise and beneficial advice by elders and doctors will ensure safe pregnancy and happy delivery.