Pregnancy is an exciting time. You are busy making plans for a new family member while immersed in the miracle of bringing a new life into the world. As your baby develops inside of you, however, you will experience a full gamut of emotions. You may also feel physical discomfort and the concern that your body is no longer your own. The good news is there are quick and easy ways to help ease your discomforts, plus look and feel better while benefiting your baby's development. As a fitness expert and mother, I offer the following tips, which can help make your pregnancy stress free.

10 Simple Waysto a Stress Free Pregnancy

1. Listen to your body. You are going through an enormous amount of physical changes as the baby develops. So, if you feel tired, take a nap, and it will do you and the baby a world of good.

2. Listen to your cravings...but do so wisely! As your pregnancy progresses, you may notice that you're hungrier some days, or that you're craving certain foods. If so, eat nutritious foods that will nourish both you and your growing baby such as nuts, cheese, yogurt, and/or fruit. If you crave sweets, have a nutritious substitute like a piece of fruit, or make a smoothie of your favorite fruits, combined with low fat yogurt or milk and ice cubes. If you still crave something sugary sweet, do so in moderation and don't feel guilty about enjoying it.

3. Chose exercises that you like doing and, after checking with your doctor, continue to exercise throughout your pregnancy. Examples of exercises that are beneficial are walking, swimming, and yoga. Prenatal Yoga has been found to be especially helpful for reducing pain caused by pregnancy, for increasing muscle tone and strength, and preparing you for labor. It also reduces stress, and creates a deeper connection to yourself and your baby. Find a class in your area or purchase a prenatal yoga video. **

4. Smile at the positive comments you hear and ignore the others. You'll notice as you begin to show, people will comment on your pregnancy. Often, they will say things that are complimentary, and other times they may unintentionally hurt your feelings. Take the compliments with a smile and ditch the negative ones with a shrug of your shoulders.

5. Listen to your emotions. As your baby grows your emotions may change as well. You may feel happy one day, irritable the next. This is normal! As your baby is developing a multitude of hormones are unleashed in your body. So, if you feel happy, share your feelings with those you love. If you feel irritable, take a break and get some space by taking a walk, getting some fresh air, or laying down for a nap.

6. Ask for help when you need it. You may notice that you are uncomfortable lifting objects and feel silly asking someone to help if you're not showing yet, but don't be! Just remember, you're taking care of yourself and your baby when you ask for help. Most people love to lend a hand to someone in need, especially a pregnant woman.

7. Focus on what you like about your body. As your body changes you may become self conscious about gaining weight in your hips, breasts, and thighs, in addition to swelling in your face and ankles. Instead of focusing on what you don't like, focus on what you do like. Pregnant women are more likely to have thicker hair and longer nails, so focus on that.

8. Enjoy this special time. Being pregnant may feel like a long time, but it's only nine months, and when it's over, it will hardly be remembered. Embrace the experience, and the gift of being able to create and carry a life inside you!