In the whirlwind of pregnancy and new motherhood, it can be easy to forget about the need to have some much needed quiet time every so often, practicing relaxation sounds like a luxury you cannot afford, but there are simple tips that can help you to relax during even the busiest of days.

Deep breathing – take a slow deep breath in, hold it for a moment and then slowly blow the air out through your mouth. Repeat a few more times with your eyes closed. Try to drop your shoulders down and feel the tension leave your body as you relax your arms and fingers while you breathe out.

Concentration is on a mental image, e.g. imagining that you are sitting or lying in your favourite outdoor place and focusing on the sounds around you, what you can see, smell and enjoy. You can imagine that you can visit this favourite place at any time.