by Sara Hoke
Pregnancy can be exciting and blissful… but in more cases than not, it comes with lots of uncomfortable symptoms like fatigue, joint discomfort, pelvic pain, and stretching/pulling on various body parts. OUCH!
As a doula, childbirth educator and mother of 2, I want to give you permission to make bodywork and prenatal massage a priority. I truly recommend scheduling a prenatal massage as frequent as weekly and at the minimum, monthly. There are just so many benefits!
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
- Lowers stress & improves mood
- Lowers anxiety & depression
- Reduces swelling by increasing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to affected areas, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Lowers blood pressure (which is very important as you approach your birth)
- Improves sleep (both length and quality)
- Increases oxytocin production
The verdict is in. You NEED prenatal massage to thrive in pregnancy.
Best Prenatal Massage in Los Angeles
Here are my favorite prenatal massage therapists in LA. These therapists/businesses are all independently owned and operated. The practitioners are highly specialized in prenatal massage (and postpartum!) and are passionate about supporting pregnancy related symptoms.
Alissa Kate
Pasadena
Alissa Kate is a favorite among the Pasadena moms network. Partnering with several local businesses, you may have seen her at your chiropractor or physical therapist’s office or on a women’s retreat with Grow and Gather! Alissa brings a beautiful understanding of energy and emotional connection to her sessions. Focused and intentional, she offers prenatal massage, postpartum massage, deep tissue, and the breech release.
Nova Vita Wellness
Pasadena, Highland Park + El Sereno
Callie Gyrion has the magic touch. She tailors her pressure to your needs and has a deep understanding of anatomy. She considers it a privilege to support birthing people, and her services include prenatal massage, induction massage, postnatal massage, therapeutic, and Mercier Therapy (fertility womb massage).
Sparrow’s Nest
Pasadena
Sparrow created an institution when opening Sparrow’s Nest in 2011. Her passion shines through this heart-centered work. Her offerings include reflexology, Mercier therapy, bereavement massage, facials, and of course, prenatal massage.
Body & Soul by JoJo
North Hollywood
This small family business offers prenatal massage, postnatal massage, labor stimulation, infant massage, craniosacral, fascial therapy and reiki.
Hands on Mom Massage
Sherman Oaks
Jenna Denning has been a massage therapist for 20 years and sees clients out of the Bini Birth building. A former birth doula, she loves easing the discomforts of pregnancy and motherhood.
Have you heard of Village Birth?
Village Birth is a space in Pasadena for expecting and new families. We have childbirth classes, newborn care classes, lactation and pregnancy support for Los Angeles. We hold in-person prenatal classes, postpartum support groups, workshops, and meetups. Check out Village Birth’s prenatal classes.
