Think your third trimester is all about waiting for your baby to come? Think again! Just because you’re about to give birth doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun. And with maternity leave and swollen feet, you’ve got to do something to take your mind off the boredom and aches.
We’re here to help! Here are some fun pregnancy activities to help pass the time until your due date:
Decorate your belly
If you’re a homebody (and who can blame you; you’re pregnant!) but still want something to do, well, just look down! Your belly is a beautiful canvas that’s a lot of fun to decorate. Here are some ideas:
- Henna: This temporary dye is known for its rich color and the beautiful patterns that artists create on skin. Just make sure you choose henna formulated without lead.
- Rhinestones: You can buy packets of all sizes and colors at your nearest craft store. After that, head to the beauty store and pick up some eyelash glue. Drop a small bit of the glue onto the back of the rhinestone, then adhere it wherever you want. The eyelash glue acts as a firm but easily removable adhesive, so you can make new patterns again and again.
- Hand prints:Â If you have children already, have them dip their hands in body paint and then press them against your belly. This is a cute activity that’s definitely worthy of Instagram.
Go to the spa
Once your baby comes, you probably won’t have much time for self care. Best to get all your spa days in before the due date! Many traditional places have packages just for pregnant women, and some even have tables with openings for your belly, so you can still get a massage while lying facedown.
A facial is also a great choice, especially if pregnancy hormones are ravaging your skin. And if your feet absolutely ache, a foot massage or reflexology appointment will do wonders. Some even say the latter technique can alleviate aches and pains in other areas of the body.
Have a mocktail party
Host one last party with your girlfriends, but put mocktails on the menu. While they obviously won’t have alcohol, you can make drinks at home that look just as beautiful as the ones at your favorite brunch place. Here are some drinks from Town and Country to add to your menu:
- Rosemary blueberry smash: Muddle rosemary leaves, blueberries and honey syrup in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, then add ice and lemon juice. Shake, then strain into a glass of fresh ice. Finish with sparkling water and a rosemary sprig for garnish.
- Spicy watermelon mint agua fresca:Â Mix 2 cups cold water, 2 cups watermelon (seeded and chopped with rind removed), 1/2 cup mint leaves, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 jalapeno and juice from 1/2 lime into a blender and puree until smooth, then strain into a pitcher for serving.
- Nice pear:Â Combine 2 oz. pear juice, 1 oz. lemon juice and 3/4 oz. rosemary-infused simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake, then strain into a glass and top with soda water.
Host a cooking party
Again, life will be hectic when your baby comes, so having some premade food in the freezer will definitely come in handy. Partner with your spouse, a parent, a few friends or whoever you’re willing to let into your kitchen and prep a bunch of freezable meals you can throw into a slow cooker. What seems like work will be a lot more fun when you’re in a group! Sweet Peas and Saffron has a great list of tasty slow-cooker recipes to get you started.
With activities like these, you’ll definitely enjoy the last stages of your pregnancy.