Floating in epsom salts during pregnancy can help boost the natural magnesium level in your body. Research has shown that soaking in epsom salts increases blood magnesium concentrations which is an essential mineral you need to help build and repair tissues in your body. This mineral also regulates your blood sugar levels and it can help control cholesterol. Pregnant women should aim to get 350 milligrams of magnesium per day. You can get magnesium from the foods you eat, prenatal vitamins and also from floating.
Epsom salts are known for their healing and anti-inflammatory powers, so floating can decrease your pregnancy aches and pains. Floating while pregnant is one of the best ways to reduce inflammation and ease muscle aches – whether it’s from your achy back from carrying all that weight around, or for your sore legs. When you float, your body becomes weightless, magnesium ions (from the Epsom salts) are absorbed by your skin and these ions interfere with the pain receptors in the brain. In a nutshell, floating is a natural, anti-inflammatory pain reliever.
Floating can relax and improve your mood. When you float, magnesium from the salt is absorbed through your skin and helps your body produce more serotonin, a chemical in the brain that controls your mood and emotions. Low serotonin levels can make you cranky, irritable and depressed. Higher levels of serotonin can make you feel relaxed and happier. Since serotonin also affects your sleep, floating can also help you have a better night’s sleep.
Floating removes toxins from your body. The sulfates in epsom salts offer a natural detoxification for your body. It flushes out toxins and metals from your cells, which decrease pain and helps your body eliminate harmful substances.
Floating can help with hemorrhoids. Though no one likes to talk about it, pregnant women are more prone to constipation and hemorrhoids. Floating in epsom salts can help decrease your hemorrhoids, due to its anti-inflammatory nature and the weightlessness of your body in the water relieving any pressure due to your changing body.