When I first found out I was pregnant, I was overjoyed but also overwhelmed. Suddenly, everything I put in and on my body became a concern. Which skincare products were safe? Could I still use my favorite shampoo? Can I get my hair treated with colour? The list of questions seemed endless.

As my pregnancy progressed, I realized how crucial self-care was, especially for my mental well-being. However, navigating the world of pregnancy-safe products felt like a minefield. One day, in need of a pick-me-up, I decided to treat myself to a haircut. After some research, I found House of Keune by Bloomx in London, a luxury hair salon located in Holborn, that is a collaboration between Bloom Lifestyle salons and Keune.

From the moment I stepped in, I knew I was in good hands. Not only were the staff  knowledgeable about pregnancy-safe hair products and treatments, which immediately put my mind at rest, they made me feel comfortable and understood why I needed to feel revitalized.

The experience was nothing short of luxurious. As I sat in the chair, my stylist carefully explained each product they were using, assuring me of its safety during pregnancy. The gentle massage during the wash was heavenly, easing the tension I’d been carrying in my shoulders. What’s more is that the salon also has a men’s grooming section- should you want to bring your partner or friend along, it would be a great bonding experience.  As my new style took shape, I could feel my confidence returning. Looking in the mirror, I saw more than just a pregnant woman – I saw a vibrant, beautiful person ready to embrace this new chapter in life.

Self-care during pregnancy isn’t just about external beauty; it’s also about nurturing your body from within and addressing the physical changes that come with carrying a child. I discovered this firsthand when I treated myself to a prenatal massage at the Dimple Amani spa in Pimlico.

My massage therapist, Sonia, was both experienced and compassionate. She recommended a lymphatic drainage massage, explaining how it can be particularly beneficial during and after pregnancy. This type of massage helps alleviate water retention and the feeling of heaviness that often accompanies pregnancy.

Sonia used the Dimple Amani luxuriously soothing Ayurveda-infused Body and Navel Oil during the massage. I was relieved to learn that this oil is specially formulated to be safe for use during pregnancy, providing nourishment and care for my changing skin.

The massage paid special attention to my feet, which had been feeling increasingly heavy and swollen as my pregnancy progressed. As the founder Amani explained, “The Dimple Amani pregnancy massage pays attention to the feet which feel a sense of heaviness, stress and swelling during pregnancy, the massage leaves you lighter and restored.”

And she was right. By the end of the session, I felt significantly lighter, as if a weight had been lifted not just from my feet, but from my entire body. The experience left me feeling restored and rejuvenated, reminding me once again of the importance of taking time for self-care during this special period of my life. Plus, Dimple offered information about her Miracle Hair Growth Serum for women experiencing hair loss during pregnancy, something I worry extensively about and something she personally struggled with- in fact, her product was developed after her struggle with thinning hair and irritation from harsh chemicals.

The key ingredients in the serum that promote hair growth are a combination of ancient natural oils and herbs to nourish hair and include Ricinus Communis seed oil, brassica alba seed extract, fenugreek, and brahmi (known to help with hair breakage). This combination of natural, Ayurvedic-inspired products aims to address hair loss and promote overall hair and scalp health, particularly during pregnancy when many women experience multiple physical changes.

 

Leaving House of Keune and Dimple Amani spa, I felt rejuvenated and empowered. These experiences reminded me that pregnancy self-care isn’t about looking good; it’s about feeling good and taking time for yourself amidst the whirlwind of preparing for a baby.

For all expectant mothers out there, remember: taking care of yourself is an essential part of taking care of your baby. Don’t be afraid to pamper yourself, seek out pregnancy-safe options, and enjoy moments that make you feel like the gorgeous, glowing woman you are.