Do it Yourself: Gift Baskets for Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement, but it can also be a time of stress, worry and discomfort. Although most people use this time to give the mother items for her baby, you can be the extra-thoughtful friend who creates a gift suited for mom's needs. Certain herbs, teas and scents can help her relax, ease joint and muscle aches and prevent morning sickness. Gifting them will help her take some time out for self-care and pampering.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a decorative basket that you think the expectant mother will find pleasing. Line the bottom with tissue paper.

    • 2

      Place a lavender-scented candle in the basket. Lavender helps calm and relax the body and mind. Add lavender essential oils or bath salts to provide her a calming, relaxing bath retreat.

    • 3

      Place red raspberry leaf tea in the basket. This tea has been used by midwives for centuries to provide vitamins and minerals and to tone the uterus. It's considered safe for pregnancy during the second and third trimesters, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

    • 4

      Give her crystallized or raw ginger to ease morning sickness and general digestive complaints. Look for ginger candy and ginger tea as well.

    • 5

      Add pure cocoa or shea butter. This luxury can help ease dry skin and itching associated with stretched belly skin. Some women use it to prevent stretch marks, but there's no evidence that doing so is effective.

    • 6

      Add a yoga mat, prenatal yoga video or guided meditation CD to help her relax if she's anxious about being a new mother or stressed about her lengthy to-do list.

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