Ah, pregnancy… that miraculous and wonderful time in your life before you welcome your little baby into the World. I am in full agreement that what a woman’s body can do is absolutely astonishing and it is definitely miraculous, however, putting common media spin aside, it’s not always that enjoyable or comfortable. I know there are some ladies who will sail through pregnancy without so much as an ache or a pain, but there are many women out there who really suffer with back pain, hyperemesis, sciatica, nausea, heartburn, round ligament pain and fatigue, and that’s just to name a few delightful ailments! A conundrum that faces a lot of women is what to do on date nights that will actually be enjoyable. It’s so important to make sure you and your partner take time to enjoy each other’s company during these months because once your new little person comes along, it’s going to get a whole lot louder and busier. Even if you are just looking for something fun to do with a friend, this tried and tested list should give you some good ideas, even when you’re heavily pregnant!
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Recliner Cinema
This has to be top of my list. If, like me, you were in agony in most chairs towards the end of your pregnancy with back pain, rib pain etc. then this is for you. My daughter’s feet were perfectly positioned behind the right of my rib cage, just kicking away, which sometimes resulting in me bursting into tears in shopping centres and cafes, how embarrassing. When I heard about the recliner seats in Liffey Valley Vue cinema, this soon became the location for each and every date night in the final weeks of my pregnancy. Recliner seats are far more common now, with Blanchardstown SC introducing full recliner screens, however for me, Liffey Valley still win hands down since their seats recline all the way to the lie down position, a little bit of heaven. Important tips, opt for the second row, slightly less severe on your neck and make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and unnecessarily standing in queues.
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Couples Massage and spa day
Treat yourselves to an indulgent spa day with a deep massage, working out all those knots and kinks in your back, shoulders and legs. You know how much pressure your body is under for 9 months, you absolutely need this in your life. If you’re late in your second trimester or in your third trimester, you probably haven’t been able to lie face down in quite some time, which is just one of the things that is so fantastic about an antenatal massage. While your there, you may as well book in for some other treatments like a lovely manicure, pretty pedicure and just enjoy the amenities of the spa with your significant other and indulge in some chill time.
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Dinner and a show
If you fancy something a little bit more fancy, a night at the theatre or a gig is always a good idea – just make sure you have a good seat! Start the evening early with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at about 5pm, followed by a show at 8pm and you’ll be home and tucked up in bed by 11:30pm… Eh, heaven! For those looking for a great pre-theatre menu, my ultimate favourite is Trocadero on Andrew Street. Beautiful décor, luxurious comfortable seats and some of the best food in Dublin. Their three course meal option is €28, two courses for €22.
Movie Marathon
Sometimes (A lot of the time), there is nothing more appealing than vegging on the couch with your partner and binge watching movies or a new TV series. So get your favourite comfy PJs, order in your favourite takeaway and gear up your Netflix for the ultimate night in.
A Night Away
Feel like flying the nest for a night or two? Check out websites like HolidayGuru.ie or Lastminute.ie to bag yourselves a great deal on a weekend away. Whether it’s a staycation or a quick trip abroad, there’s no better feeling than exploring a new town, checking out some nice restaurants and then kicking back in your hotel in a big white fluffy robe. A personal favourite spot is Strandhill in Sligo which has some lovely hotels and quaint B&Bs. Make sure you check out Voya Seaweed Baths for a relaxing massage (not suitable in the first trimester) and a beautiful coastline to enjoy a romantic stroll. There’s also some delicious food on offer, check out the very cute and adorable Shells Café or the Venue Bar and Restaurant.
A Nice Stroll Together
Simple yet effective. A nice walk is great for stretching out your joints and it’s amazing to get some fresh air with your partner. So switch off the phones, or better yet, leave them at home and get out to your local park, or even go on a mini hike in Glendalough and pack a nice picnic. Headspace and mindfulness, and just enjoy the scenery.
Beauty, Babies and Beyond 