Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Belly Dancing during Pregnancy - Benefits and Precautions
Belly dancing and pregnancy are two phrases you would never expect to see in the same sentence. Pregnancy requires you to take enough rest and not undertake intense physical activities. And if you’ve seen belly dancing, you would have known how wonderfully some dancers can move. Even then, it is possible to carry out belly dancing even while you’re pregnant.
History of Belly Dancing
As a matter of fact, belly dancing was never meant to be the kind of dance we all associate it with these days. These dances were never meant to entertain or seduce the audience. These were all associated with celebrating womanhood and pregnancy.
It is believed that when a girl would hit puberty, she would be taught belly dancing so as to prepare her for giving birth to a child sometime in the future and celebrate her oncoming womanhood. When a woman is about to deliver her baby, all the other people gather together and perform the belly dance for her. By observing the dance, the mother can take her mind off the pain of the delivery and help carry out the birth in a way that allows her to flow with the contractions than fight them.
The act of belly dancing from a young age helps the woman build the muscles necessary to facilitate an easy childbirth. These also help keep the child safe and secure during pregnancy.
Is it Safe to Do Pregnancy Belly Dance?
With the right precautions and knowing which moves to undertake, belly dance can be a fun-filled activity for pregnant women that is beneficial as well. It helps keep the balance strong and strengthen the right muscles, too.
Benefits of Belly Dancing for Pregnant Women
Here are some of the benefits of belly dancing while pregnant.
Belly-dancing builds up strength in the muscles of the pelvis and abdomen. These are especially required during childbirth and keeping them strong helps the mother return back to normal sooner.
It helps reduce stress and anxiety of the pregnancy and provide immense relaxation almost immediately.
Belly dancing can start nudging a baby in an improper position to take the right position for delivery. A child facing ahead can start facing behind which is optimal.
It brings back the confidence in the body that the mother had prior to getting pregnant. Also builds up on the body image, increasing positivity.
It also assists in building and maintaining a good posture that prevents stress on the back and keeps the body fit.
Coordination of various bodily limbs and keeping a balance of added weight becomes quite easy with regular belly-dancing practice.
Belly-dancing builds up the floor tone of the pelvis that is essential in preventing any instance of prolapse of the uterus later in life.
It can increase social interaction by meeting other pregnant women at the belly dance class.
Things You Need to Practice Belly Dance in Pregnancy
Here are few things you will have to arrange for before you can belly dance during pregnancy
A free-flowing full skirt, that either reaches your knee or your ankles. In the later months of the pregnancy, the skirt would have to be worn on your hips.
Exercise clothes that are stretchable and made from natural material that allows your body to breathe.
A comfortable top. Whether you want to display your stomach or not is your own personal choice.
If you want to try your hand at veil dancing, you can use a scarf as well. Or even tie a shawl around your hip with a coin belt for jingling sounds.
No need of any special footwear since bare feet is the best way to dance and connects you to the ground.
A class will usually have the right kind of music. If doing at home, you can find the relevant music on the Internet as well.
Safe Moves of Belly Dancing You Can Try when Pregnant
Not every belly dance move is pregnancy-friendly!
Start making large hip circles slowly. By doing so, the gravity acts on all areas of the uterus and can help in bringing the baby into an appropriate position.
You can make 8-shaped movements with your hip, too. When these 8s are made in a lateral way instead of horizontal, it helps in preparing your body for labour.
The most fun movement is swinging your pelvis from one side to the other. This is easy to do and can easily get exciting.
Precautions to Take while Doing Pregnancy Belly Dancing
While belly dancing is not prohibited during pregnancy, you still need to take some precaution.
Do not try to emulate the professional belly dancing moves that involve sharp movements. Keep your movements slow and rhythmic.
Always bend your knees when you dance. Do not keep them locked since it might cause the ligaments to tear.
Don’t shimmy as it could disturb the baby. Also avoid jumping, twisting of the hips quickly or bending too far behind.
Eat a couple of hours before you begin dancing. Keeping yourself hydrated is also essential before and on completion of the dance.
In case of any pain or discomfort, stop dancing and call your doctor immediately.
When Should You Avoid Belly Dancing?
Irrespective of whether your pregnancy is an easy or difficult one, do NOT belly dance under the following circumstances:
If you have gestational diabetes due to pregnancy
If you are susceptible to pre-eclampsia
If you have had premature deliveries in the past
Belly dance for pregnancy can be a wonderful activity for women to get their groove back, even during pregnancy. The strength that the muscles build up can be quite beneficial even after delivery. With the right exercises, you can make sure your delivery does not face any problems and you have the strength to bring your newborn baby into this new world.
Also Read: Dancing during Pregnancy Read more
Suggested for you
Water for Baby Formula - Know What Works Better for Your Child
When you have decided to give baby formula to your little one, the next thing that you need to think about is the water that you will be using for this. The baby formula needs to be mixed with water, and it is important to know how and what kind you will use. There are questions that have been raised by parents regarding the safety of using boiled water or bottled water and other types when they use it for the formula. One thing to note is that you have to be sure of the water quality. Otherwise, your little one’s developing body might not be able to handle it.
What Kind of Water is Best for Baby Formula?
While using baby formula, there are certain things that need to be kept in mind. Most prescriptions will tell you that you need to use safe water for baby formula. Well, this could be quite confusing as you might be wondering what exactly is safe water for formula fed babies.
It is always advisable to check the nature and the quality of water that is coming to your house. This will give you an idea of how safe it is to use. Also consulting a doctor is a great way to figure it out.
Types of Water You Can Use :
1. Bottled Water Just For Babies : Using bottled water for babies is a safe option as the water is mostly purified for the little one to consume. However, make sure to check the bottle description for quality once again.
2. Tap Water : Tap water is not recommended for use in baby formula. Well, there are places that have extremely pure water, and this can be used. However, at many places tap water has other chemical substances in it which can lead to complications.
3. Bottled Water : After all these little details given to you, you must be wondering can you use bottled water for baby formula? Bottle water is good as long as there are no extra constituents added to it for taste. Some companies add chemicals to make their bottled water tastier. This must definitely be brought to check.
Should You Boil The Water?
It is important to make sure that the water is clean and pure and it is absolutely safe for children. Boiled water gives you the assurance that all sorts of bacteria and germs are killed. However, when you boil water, make sure that you are cooling the water to make baby formula.
Is Fluoride The Only Thing to be Avoided for Baby's Formula?
The American Dental Association is also known as ADA has reported that high concentrations of fluoride are not a wise option. This is because excessive fluoride intake can lead to fluorosis. Fluoride is obviously one of the most important things you need to check. However, you also need to check and avoid if the water is too hard, as this can be highly unsafe for the little one. Too many minerals are also something that you need to watch out for.
Distilled Water for Baby Formula
There is hardly any research or disclaimer which says you need to use only distilled water in your baby formula. However, it is quite clear that distilled water has gone through purification and process and so it could be the safest one to use for your baby formula.
Distilled water also is not hard, and its calcium and magnesium are removed to a large extent. The minerals that exist in soft water is usually less than 17.1 mg/l.
If you have the public water system, then make sure to get information from the local water utility. Mineral water for baby formula is not recommended as it could contain concentrated minerals that are meant for the adult body.
Water You Should Avoid?
There are a few water quality checks that you must perform to figure out if the water that you use is safe for your baby. You need to check the minerals and other components to know if it is purified water for baby formula. There are a couple of things that you can keep an eye out for.
1. Well Water
You might not be sure of how pure the well water is. In fact, rainwater collected from the ground should be safe by itself. But since it collects all the dust and impurities from the atmosphere, it is best to avoid it.
2. Water Containing High-Levels of Fluoride
You might have heard that fluoride is absolutely safe to use when making baby formula for your little one. However, this is not true because high levels of fluoride can lead to problems in your little one.
You need to figure out the fluoride content in the water. If this is less than 0.7/ mg/L, then you are good to go. Sometimes, you can spot bottled water which clearly mentions that it is demineralized and purified, these are comparatively safe water for baby formula. This water is also low in fluoride, and so it is ok for the child.
Instructions for Boiling Water
Boil the water for a minute. Mae sure not to boil it too much as this can invite impurities.
Allow the water to come to a lukewarm or room temperature and then you can mix it with the baby formula.
It is best not to use the boiling water directly as it could lead to the formation of clumps and also can reduce the nutritional value.
Easy Steps for Preparing Best Water for Baby Formula
Make sure to keep your hands clean by washing it well.
Pour the required amount of water into the bottle.
Add scoops of baby formula powder into the bottle.
Close it with the cap and shake it.
Some formula will require it to be a little warm. So use a hot water bath to make it warm and do not use a microwave.
Your little one needs the best of everything at this point, including drinking water. At times, we might think that it is just water and there is no need to panic. However, remember that water is one of the most common things that can cause a lot of complications if it is not clean. Hence make sure you do your quality check and keep your baby safe and free from any sort of health difficulties. It is these little steps that you take to protect your baby that will go a long way.
Also Read -
When & How to Introduce Water to Infants
Introducing Solid Foods to Babies
How to Wean a Baby Read more
Suggested for you
Why Being a Mom is So Special
Holding your precious bundle of joy in your arms for the first time is an experience that words cannot do justice to. You have not only pulled off the magic of creating a life but you have also taken up a very special role - that of being a mom.
Being a mom is a challenging, albeit rewarding job. You are faced with difficult situations and tough decisions on a regular basis and this could leave you physically drained and mentally frustrated.But there's no denying you love being a mother! As all moms agree, mothering a child and bringing him up has rewards that you will cherish all your life.
Why Being a Mom Rocks
Someone has rightly said that being a mother is like watching your heart move around outside your body. Let us explore the best part of being a mom:
1. Sharing Special Moments with Your Children
Your child can make the smallest of moments a special one for you. You might be drained after a hard day's work, or might be feeling low due to undue stress in your life.A gentle kiss from your child or a naughty prank played by him is enough to make you forget all your fatigue and stress, and bring a smile on your face. These special moments with your child make motherhood a priceless experience.
2. Watching Them Grow
Your little bundle of joy grows with every passing day. You will be amazed by the changes you see in him as he grows and explores the world around him. You are taken by surprise when he shares his thoughts with you.Sometimes, his innocent yet intelligent questions can leave you stumped. Every passing year reflects more positive changes in your child - an experience that is extremely special for you as a mother.
3. A New Learning Experience
You would be amazed to see how being a mom changes you for the better. You might have been short-tempered and impatient before but your baby teaches you to be gentler and more patient. You might have never noticed small things that can bring you happiness.But now, you learn to enjoy the small wonders of watching the birds peck or smelling a rose. A whole new world unfolds before you as you rediscover the joys of childhood with your little one.
4. Joys of Success
Every little thing done by your kid is a reason to rejoice, be it his first step or his first spoken word, his first victory at a recitation competition or first trophy in a race.Motherhood lets you enjoy every success of your child and makes you want to pat yourself on the back. After all, each milestone your child achieves is testimony to your upbringing and hard work!
5. Unconditional Love
The bond between you and your child is unconditional. The endless hugs, kisses, and loving gestures from your child remind you every day of the love that you share from even before he was born.Even the unsaid words between the two of you speak volumes of your cherished relationship.
Being a mom changes your life completely and yet you love every bit of it. Motherhood can be an immensely fulfilling experience where the reward you get is a big bagful of fond memories to hold close to your heart.Make sure you enjoy these special moments to the fullest before time flies and leaves you astounded! Read more
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Forward Jumping in Toddlers
When your toddler starts to jump, teach her new ways to go about it. There are a number of jumping activities for toddlers to engage in. Creating an activity space is essential to ensure she doesn't get hurt. One thing you can be assured of, she will enjoy the activity!
Jumping is a gross motor skill that's involved in most games toddlers play. As a parent, you must allow your little one to explore different jumps. Give her the space to choose the one she likes best. Here are some of the different ways she can jump, and develop her muscles and balance.
Different Ways to Jump for Toddlers
1. Line Jumping
Making jumping fun for your toddler is necessary. A good way to start is to come up with fun jumping games. You can try the line jumping game with your little one. Use tape to create lines on the floor(each should be one foot apart). Ask your little one to cross all the lines. This forward jumping task will have your toddler jumping for joy.
2. Hopscotch
Which toddler hasn’t played an abridged version of hopscotch? Draw the boxes(not too far apart though) and instruct your little one on ways to complete the hurdle successfully. You might even want to give a demonstration. Not only will your little one stand firm on her feet, both of you will get time to bond. ||
3. Follow the Leader
After explaining to toddlers parts of a good jump, the ‘Follow the Leader’ game should be a fun game. You can involve your toddler’s friends in the game as well. Ask them to imitate everything you do. You can start by walking, then jumping on both feet, then on one foot and so on. They may find it a little difficult to keep pace initially; however, they will pick up in time. This exercise will make your little one sturdy on her feet.
Toddler Jumping Milestone: The Benefits
When your little one gets into the practice of jumping, it will lengthen and strengthen muscles, improving her flexibility.
Your little one will stand to benefit from jumping. It will help strengthen bone density and muscles, safeguarding her from fractures. Since little ones are prone to a few nasty falls, jumping will ensure a fall doesn’t hamper your toddler all that much.
Jumping also helps in coordination and balance. Asking your little one to jump in one place will improve her centre of gravity. When she grows up a little, you can always get her a trampoline for practice.
Jumping helps improve posture. While the exercise improves balance, regular jumping will give your little one a good gait. Encouraging toddlers to do different jumps is also great fun, besides being a test for your child's coordination skills.
While jumping can be a fun activity, ensuring your toddler’s safety is of utmost importance. Keep a tab on her at all times when she is engaged in different jumping games for toddlers. Also, give her time to get accustomed to the new activity. If she gets tired, allow her to rest. Read more
Suggested for you
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
8 hours ago
Q. hi have one question
LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5
what it mean??? and should I start intercourse
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. since you are right follicle is 18 mm yes of course you can start with your intercourse for conception as in 1 to 2 days
their maybe rupture of the follicle by which your sperm should be present there for conception
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
why baby vomit
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. for babies less than 6 months may not be a problem. small babies will be having lot of gas because of various reasons it is advisable to do burping of the baby immediately after feeding please give colimex DF drops to the baby they are safe
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
7 hours ago
Q. i am 35 weeks 3 days pregnant... my ultrasound report shows that "fl and hl are shorter compared to bpd"... is this anything to worry
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
needs proper follow-up for this
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. I am 9 week pregnant and I have runny nose very badly can I use cetirizine tablet?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. use nasal drops , that acts faster .
You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. hi,
my LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5 , what if I intercourse after 2 days, can I do intercourse in ovulation day can become a pregent .
on ovulation day if we intercourse can become a pregent..pls advice..
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. since the follicle size is 18 to 20 mm your ovulation may occur within 24 hours also so if you have intercourse with in that time it will be more effective to get conceived
your endometrial growth is not good enough for conception but still you can just try
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. Hlw dr its my 6th month pregnency can i intimate with my partner
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
5 hours ago
A. Hello dear! If your pregnancy is going on fine without any high risk factors then it’s okay. Still, would advise you to check with your doctor once before going further. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Check out this new Memory
Amita Nirmal
Mom of a 1 yr 6 m old boy
New Memory
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Haritha p
Guardian of a 5 yr 7 m old boy
New Memory
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Preeeti
Mom of a 1 yr 6 m old girl
2 mins ago
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Anujha Syiemlieh
Mom of a 7 m old girl
2 mins ago
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Rudrakshi
Mom of a 11 m old girl
3 mins ago
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive