Stress can have detrimental effects on the body that you may not even realize, since these effects are often internal and intangible. One such effect is making it more difficult to get pregnant even if you are perfectly healthy otherwise. Keeping your stress level down will go a long way toward your goal of getting pregnant, especially if you find that it's taking longer than you expected.
Prevent Mental Stress
The best way to avoid mental stress is to stay organized. Make to-do lists, keep detailed daily agendas and menus. This removes your need to figure out what to have for dinner or to decide how to prioritize your day since you have already done it in advance. Set aside one evening a week, perhaps a Sunday night, to schedule out everything that must be done for the week, and this will free your mind up for the rest of the week. It will also ensure that you're on schedule, so work and other responsibilities will not bleed over into your private time, which would be best used working toward getting pregnant instead of thinking about that big work assignment or what's for dinner tomorrow.
Relieve Physical Stress
There are many ways to take care of physical stress, and each will depend on your interests and level of fitness. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress by releasing endorphins into the body and flushing out stress-related hormones like cortisol. Yoga can be adapted to just about any body shape and level of fitness and is a great way to work out physical stress, as well as balance the body and mind. Swimming is also a good exercise to relieve stress, and you can likely continue a regular regimen of swimming even after you get pregnant if your doctor approves it, since it is a low-impact activity. Tai chi and regular massages are also good ideas for reducing stress.
Eat Well
Eat a well-balanced diet to keep your body healthy. But do not torture yourself. As long as you're getting your regular daily allowance of fruits, vegetables and proteins, go ahead and have that occasional brownie if it makes you happy. Just remember that all things should be done in moderation. Ice cream can be an especially good snack after a good baby-making session, as the fun of it may help you bond with your partner as well. Carrots or other crunchy veggies are good for you by providing nutrients like beta-carotene, and their crunch can help you work out minor frustrations.
Bonding
Although the way to make a baby is usually enjoyable, when you're deliberately trying to get pregnant, it can become a little tedious. Try to forget that you are there to try to get pregnant. Just relax and enjoy the time with your partner, remembering the love that brought you together and inspired you both to have a baby together in the first place. Have date nights, and remember all the little things that make your relationship special.
Sleep
Getting an adequate amount of sleep is critical to good health and stress reduction. If you can't manage getting a full night's sleep because of your job or other responsibilities, consider taking time out for a nap at lunchtime or take one night to turn in a little early.
Emotional Health
Intense negative emotions will lead to stress very quickly. While you're trying to get pregnant, make an effort to avoid family members who tend to upset you or friends who bring a lot of drama into your life. Avoid conflicts at work. Consider learning new communication techniques if you are arguing frequently with your partner since this will not only cause emotional stress, but may adversely affect your ability and opportunity to get pregnant.
Laugh It Up
Laughter is often said to be a great stress reliever, so keep things light whenever possible. Go out to see a comedy with your partner, or stay in with a romantic comedy since good times and private snuggling can lead you straight into baby-making activities. Browse web comics, pick up a funny book or make a date with your funny friend for a lunch or a night on the town.
