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Home › Articles › Multiples › In Search of Slumber

In Search of Slumber

Sleep Solutions for Moms-to-be of Multiples

By Lyn Mettler

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A study at the Touch Research Institute in Miami, Fla., found that pregnant women who received massage had lower anxiety and stress hormones, improved moods, better sleep and labors with fewer complications.

Favin recommends women have a massage once or twice a week during their last trimester from either a professional or their partner. But, there are precautions when massaging a pregnant woman, so check with a massage therapist first. You can find therapists who specialize in pregnancy through the American Massage Therapy Association.

Other Relaxation Methods
Studies have also found that using lavender essential oil causes relaxation and even drowsiness. "Lavender oil is wonderful and safe," says Dr. Patricia Fitzgerald of the Santa Monica Wellness Center in Santa Monica, Calif., and author of The Detox Solution: The Missing Link to Radiant Health, Abundant Energy, Ideal Weight and Peace of Mind (Illumination Press, 2001). "Used throughout the day, it helps to support calmness and can assist with sleep."

Women carrying twins or triplets might also try Shiatsu, an ancient Japanese technique that uses touch, diet and breathing to redistribute excesses and blockages of energy in the body. Shiatsu is relaxing and can help promote sleep, especially if done before bedtime. Your partner can learn some of these relaxing techniques from a Shiatsu practitioner. To learn more about Shiatsu or to locate a practitioner, log on to the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia Web site at www.aobta.org.

While you may never get a solid eight hours of sleep, especially during your last trimester, trying a few of these suggestions may help you make the mos of what sleep you do get. So fluff up a few pillows, inhale some lavender and set your sights on dreamland.


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