Pregnancy is one of the most wonderful stages in a woman’s life. But pregnancy along with it brings along certain changes in a woman’s body that often become a cause of concern.
One of these problems is post-pregnancy cellulite. However, the good news is that this can be tackled with some home remedies you can easily follow even in between your hectic schedules.
What is cellulite?
The problem of cellulite is more common in women and can become aggravated during pregnancy. Fat and cellulite are not the same, but the increase of fat, which is common during the last trimester, can lead to cellulite.
Cellulite is also not a disease or a disorder, but it can make a difference to the figure and thus causes much concern. Cellulite is a common problem of “lumps” that generally appear on the thighs, hips, buttocks, upper arms and upper back.
During pregnancy, cellulite can also occur on the abdomen. Another term for cellulite is “orange peel skin” because the skin on these areas resembles an orange peel.
The cause...
Cellulite is caused by deposits of water, fat and other wastes that collect in pockets beneath the skin. The slowing down of the body’s waste removal process is thought to be responsible for the condition. In other words, there is a relationship between body toxicity and cellulite.
Sluggish digestion, constipation, poor liver functioning, poor blood circulation, mental stress, chronic fatigue, insomnia and a sedentary lifestyle are some causative factors.
Natural ways to get rid of cellulite
Cellulite can be addressed at home however you may need someone to help you hasten the process. Here are a few ways you can rely on
1. Massage
Post pregnancy every woman must enjoy the luxury of long relaxing massage sessions. If you see fat deposits in your body it is better to work towards the areas in between your routine massages.
It is advised to massage the area with cellulite when the muscles are relaxed. Long stroking movements, should be used for stimulating blood and lymphatic flow. The area with cellulite is squeezed and kneaded, ending with the stroking movements again.
- A combination of oils of margosa (neem), winter cherry (ashwagandha) and sandalwood can be used, mixed with carrier oils of almond, olive and sesame seed for treating cellulite.
- Neem purifies the skin by facilitating the removal of toxins, while Ashwagandha is a tonic and stimulant.
- Sandalwood induces relaxation and protects the skin, as it is a powerful antiseptic and germicidal. The entire combination is most helpful in relieving skin congestion.
- The carrier oils help to restore the normal balances, tone the skin and muscles and are extremely nourishing.
2. Skin Brushing
Skin “brushing” helps the elimination of toxins. The entire surface, excluding the face, should be brushed, using a rough cloth, or a natural bristle brush. Begin from the feet and go upwards.
Then brush from lower to upper arms. Go across the shoulders and back. Brush gently on the chest and abdomen. You can either do it yourself before your bathing session or take help of a masseur.
3. Lifestyle changes
Under your doctor’s guidance, try to bring about a change in your diet and lifestyle. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, relaxation and deep breathing also help to free those trapped wastes and drain them from the system.
( Shahnaz Husain spoke to theindusparent writer Zofeen Maqsood)
Read: 8 Indian diet habits that are not letting you lose weight
