Cure the third trimester slump!

Here I am with about five weeks to go in this pregnancy and I am definitely starting to feel it physically. It is amazing how you can go from loads of energy to not being able to lift your head in the matter of a few weeks. What makes it even harder is the fact that I have a thre year old who is relying on me every single day. There are absolutely no sick days and there is little to no time for a nap (unless I take one when he is napping). Maybe I was this exhausted the first time around, but I definitely do not remember it! I have been trying to take matters into my own hands and find things that help pick me back up during the day. Hopefully some of these ideas will be helpful to you as well!

Exercising in your third trimester

I am most certainly not running or even jogging at this point in my pregnancy, but I can definitely still walk! As tempting as it is to park in the “expectant mother” parking or find the closest available parking spot, I try to park a little further away just so I have to walk more. It is easier for me because I have a child who can walk by himself. I understand that if you still have a small toddler it may be easier for you to park closer and carry your child (still a work out though)!

I also try to take about 30 minutes a day, three days a week to walk on our Gazelle. Yes, it is one of those Tony Little devices that makes me feel completely ridiculous, but the point is that I do it and it helps! Even just exercising for one day will make a huge difference in any pains I may be feeling in my lower back or pelvis.

Water,  water, and more water!

Water is so vital to everything, especially when you are pregnant! Being dehydrated can even lead to preterm labor if you are not careful. While it is important to stay hydrated to avoid things like preterm labor, it is also important to stay hydrated for energy. Your body's cells are like sponges and absorb up every ounce of water you can give them.  If your cells are full, you are going to have more energy. If your cells are shriveling up so are you!

Treat yourself

Truthfully, if I had the money for a massage that is exactly what I would do! Instead, I opt for things like having my husband watch my three year old for me one night every once in a while so that I can go out, run errands, and take my time! It is amazing how relaxing a drive down the road, windows down, and no kiddie music playing can be. It is even more inviting to be able to do some shopping or get things done without worrying about a snack cup, nap time, or a convenient potty break. The point is to find something that is a treat for you and do it! If you have other children in the home I'm sure there is bound to be someone who can take them off your hands for just a few hours, even if you only do it once!

Felicia Carter is the author of Go Graham Go, a parenting blog with advice, products and money saving tips. She has a three year old son and is expecting number two in September. Connect with Felicia on Twitter.