By Ali McHugh, Mindful Mum, 22 August 2012

When you get the chance, slow down, relax and make time to appreciate these 10 amazing things about your pregnancy.

1. The power to make people smile and be kind

A pregnant woman can bring out the good in people. You might find people opening the door, giving up their seat on the bus or being more attentive to you. Smile back and enjoy.

2. Respect for your super amazing body

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You are pumping 50% more blood around your body and your cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped out with each heartbeat) increases by 40%.

3. The natural pregnancy beauty boost

Nails grow faster, boobs grow larger and your hair becomes glossy and thicker due to hormonal changes in your body.

4. Choosing a baby name

You get to name another human being!

5. Change in perspective

Looking at your belly in the mirror every morning before you look at your face.

6. Your body is a temple

You eat more carefully, drink more water and read the ingredient labels. That healthy eating regime falls into place because suddenly your health matters more.

7. Two hearts!

Listening to the ‘galloping horse’ sound of your baby’s heart racing at 140 bpm with the doppler.

8. Instinct kicks in

The nesting instinct may allow you to actually enjoy housework for a change! And, you have a ready make excuse to go shopping for the new arrival.

9. Secret smile

You have a secret. Enjoying the special time when only you know that you are expecting a baby.

10. Superhuman love

The realisation that you love someone before you have met them.

Graphic by Ana Starhan

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