Relaxation is resting physically and mentally. It's important to clear your mind and truly unwind. Relaxing is a skill, some people are good at, and others aren't.

Pregnancy is the ideal time to start learning relaxing techniques, as they will benefit for both you and your baby.

Relaxing is not something that you can structured, it can be as simple as taking time out every day to sit back, close your eyes and think about something peaceful.

Take a nap wherever you get the chance, as trips to the toilet and your expanding belly can mean you are getting less quality sleep during the night.

Try to take some time each day to put your feet up and read, watch TV or listen to the music you like.

Go to a park outside of the city environment to clear your thoughts.

You can tense your feet, squeeze you toes tight, then let go. Feel the tension seeping out of your body. Repeat the same with your legs, pelvic floor, buttocks, stomach and so on in true until you reach your forehead. While doing this, break even and slow, and think about each part of your body and how it feels now.

Relaxation can lower your blood pressure and increase the oxygen supply to your baby, helping her or him to thrive. So try relaxing as often as you can.