We spend a lot of time learning how to strengthen our bodies.
We talk about building stronger legs, improving core strength and getting more movement into our day. But there’s another side of wellbeing that often gets overlooked: learning how to relax.
Your pelvic floor is no exception.
Pelvic floor wellness isn’t only about strength. Being able to recognise tension and consciously allow your body to relax can also be an important part of becoming more connected with yourself.
What does pelvic floor relaxation mean?
Your pelvic floor is made up of muscles that can contract and relax.
We don’t always think about these muscles throughout the day, and sometimes we may unconsciously hold tension in the pelvic area, just as we might tense our shoulders or clench our jaw when we’re stressed.
Pelvic floor relaxation simply means becoming more aware of this area and creating opportunities for those muscles to soften and release.
It’s not about forcing anything.
It’s about awareness, breathing and giving yourself permission to slow down.
Why might we hold tension?
There isn’t always one obvious reason.
Everyday stress, prolonged sitting, physical activity and changes that happen during pregnancy and postpartum can all make us more aware of sensations in our pelvic area.
Sometimes, we develop habits without realising it. We might tense our muscles when we’re concentrating, stressed or simply going about our day.
The first step isn’t necessarily changing the habit.
It’s noticing it.
Your breath can be a simple starting point
One of the easiest ways to begin exploring relaxation is by paying attention to your breathing.
Try this:
Find a comfortable position and let your shoulders drop.
Take a slow breath in without trying to make it perfect.
Then allow your exhale to be slow and unforced.
As you breathe, bring your attention to your lower abdomen and pelvic area. Rather than trying to actively “do” anything, simply notice what you feel.
Even a few quiet moments can become an opportunity to reconnect with your body.
Relaxation doesn’t have to mean doing nothing
Pelvic wellness can fit into everyday life.
You might spend a few minutes focusing on your breathing before bed. You might take a moment to check whether you’re carrying unnecessary tension while sitting at your desk. Or you might create a calming self-care ritual that helps you reconnect with your body.
The goal isn’t to add another task to an already busy schedule.
It’s to make a little more space for yourself.
Especially during postpartum life
Pregnancy and postpartum can bring enormous changes, physically, emotionally and practically.
Your relationship with your body may feel different. Your routines may change completely. And finding time for yourself can suddenly become much harder.
That’s why pelvic wellness doesn’t have to mean adding a complicated routine to your day.
Sometimes, starting with a few minutes of awareness and relaxation is enough.
And if something doesn’t feel comfortable, you don’t have to push through it.
There’s no universal pelvic wellness routine
What feels relaxing to one person might not feel the same for someone else.
Your body, experiences and circumstances are unique.
That’s why we’re interested in creating tools and resources that give women options rather than telling them there is one “right” way to approach pelvic wellness.
NomiWave is built around that idea: gentle support, greater awareness and more comfortable conversations about the pelvic floor.
Making pelvic wellness part of self-care
Your pelvic floor doesn’t have to be something you only think about when you’re experiencing a problem.
It can simply become another part of getting to know your body.
A few minutes of intentional relaxation.
A little more awareness.
A better understanding of how your body feels.
Small moments can become meaningful habits over time.
And sometimes, taking care of yourself starts with something as simple as learning how to let go.
Explore more from NomiWave: Discover our guides to pelvic wellness, relaxation and postpartum self-care, or join our waitlist to be the first to hear about our upcoming wellness tools.
This article is for general wellness and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any medical condition. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort, speak with an appropriate healthcare professional.