How I’m Adapting My Business During Pregnancy

The exciting news is finally out that we’re expecting our first baby this August!

As the owner of a very hands-on aromatherapy business (pun not intended), I’ve began to gently introduce some changes to adapt to this season of my life. 

1.      Shorter working days and introducing more spaciousness between clients

I’ve so far been incredibly lucky that I haven’t suffered with many pregnancy symptoms.  I have however noticed a big drop in my energy levels in the afternoons.  This has definitely improved as I entered the second trimester, but I’ve been conscious to lean into this and see clients earlier in the day, or take the morning off if I have clients booked in the afternoon.  Between clients, I’ve also been carving out more time to have a little break, stretch out my body and fill up on snacks...

2.      Time for snacks!

I wish I could say that I’ve been getting my extra calorie intake from nutrient dense foods, but this isn’t always the case...  If a wave of sickness is coming or my energy levels have dipped, snacks have saved me!  If you have any recommendations for healthy, handbag friendly snacks please let me know!

3.      Adapting treatments

Last month I introduced a new treatment offering, which combines both my Aromatic Indian Head Massage with AromaReflex (feet).  I’ve been meaning to do this for a while, as the head, shoulders and feet are such relaxing areas to receive massage.  But a further advantage (and the best bit for me) is that I get to site down for most of the treatment! Perfect for when my mobility starts to become a little restricted over the coming months.  If you’d like to learn more about this treatment offering head over here.

4.      Avoiding essential oils which are contraindicated with pregnancy

On the whole, most essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy, albeit with a recommended lower dilution rate.  I currently have over 50 different essential oils to choose from when it comes to creating treatment blends, but there are a few I have taken out of my kit for the time being, such as clary sage.

5.      Above all listening to my body

I’ve told this story often, but I was first drawn to aromatherapy at a time in my life when I really needed to slow down.  And my biggest lesson from pregnancy so far is to do just that, slow down and listen to my body.  The irony is that this will be preparation for probably the most joyfully chaotic season of my life to come!  In my business this is currently looking like working less as mentioned, but also giving myself permission to take more time off if needed and to not commit to a ‘back to work’ date just yet. 

I’d love to hear from you if any if this resonates with you.  Have you had to make shifts in your day to day to accommodate a new responsibility or change in your life?

With love,

Kit x