+31 (0) 6 444 76 747
Relax, Mama!
Everyone around you is telling you to 'just relax!' and simply enjoy this pregnancy. But hey, if it was only that easy! The people around you probably mean well, but it seems impossible to relax if you experience physical pain or discomfort or if you're worried about the future. The upcoming birth, becoming a parent, this all brings a certain level of uncertainty, which makes it even harder to relax.
Physical Ease, Mental Peace
Imagine feeling relaxed in your body and calm in your mind. How would it feel to be deeply connected to your body, experiencing less discomfort and alleviating pain? Discover the power of touch and the positive effects of happy hormones on you and on your baby. It's a win-win situation: more relaxation for you means more relaxation for your baby.
"When the body is sufficiently relaxed, the mind will naturally calm down." — Thich Nhat Hanh
What To Expect
After an initial conversation and a soothing cup of tea, we will begin with bodywork. This might involve standing up, moving around the room, followed by lying down on the massage table, designed especially for pregnant women. Thanks to the adjustable belly opening, you can lie face down without putting pressure on the abdomen. Alternatively, you can also lie on your side, supported with pillows between your knees and ancles to relieve pressure from your pelvis and lower back.
Through various massage techniques inspired by Esalen, Trager and Rolfing, including deep tissue and movement techniques, I will gently guide your attention to any areas that may feel tensed, disconnected or neglected. This helps you experience your body as a unified whole, enhancing your overall sense of wholeness and well-being.
Increased Body Awareness
A relaxed body leads to a calm mind and greater trust in your body. When your body is free from tension, it sends signals of safety and relaxation to your brain. As you approach birth, the trust you have cultivated in your body becomes invaluable. A relaxed body and calm mind create an optimal environment for labor, reducing fear and anxiety.
More Trust in Your Body
Trusting your body's ability to give birth empowers you to work with the natural process of labor, rather than resisting it. This trust can lead to a smoother birthing experience, as you are more likely to stay present, listen to your body's signals, and manage pain effectively.
The aim of this session is to support you in developing this deep connection and trust in your body, enhancing your well-being during pregnancy and preparing you for a confident and empowered birthing experience.
Your investment
Investing time and money in your pregnant body is essential for your self-care during pregnancy. Spending some quality time with yourself allows you to prioritize your well-being, reducing stress and alleviating physical discomfort that can arise as your body changes.
First session of 90 minutes (incl. intake) as described above is 110,-.
Follow-up session of 75 min is 95,-.
As an accredited massage therapist, I am a member of both VBAG and RBCZ. I adhere to high quality standards, continuous education requirements. My sessions might (partially) reimbursed by your health insurance provider, depending on your additional health care package.
Why Marlene?
Marlene is an accredited somatic massage therapist specialized in shame and guilt. She is also an expert in pregnancy, birth and (early) parenthood through years of experience as a birth doula, childbirth educator and Spinning Babies® Certified Parent Educator, a physiological approach to childbirth.