Yoga can help expectant mothers to get through their pregnancy with less discomfort. By improving circulation and aiding in relaxation, yoga can help counter some of the more uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms like nausea and fatigue.
Yoga is an ancient Indian form of exercise that can be traced back at least 5,000 years. It is unique from other exercises because it takes a holistic approach to a person’s wellbeing. The various breathing, meditation, and relaxation techniques taught in yoga can be very beneficial during labor and delivery.
Pregnancy is a time of heightened awareness and flexibility, making yoga an ideal lifestyle choice. You become more aware of your body and emotions, as well as your surroundings and nutrition. This increased awareness can help you make choices that are best for you and your baby.
Prenatal yoga is a wonderful way to ease pregnancy aches and emotional worries, as well as to prepare for labor and recovery after the birth of your baby. Prenatal yoga classes offer gentle stretching and strengthening poses, breathing and relaxation techniques, and a supportive community that can help you feel your best during this special time.
Joining pregnancy yoga classes with a qualified instructor is a great way to learn correct techniques, as well as meet other mums-to-be. Don’t worry if you feel like everyone is more flexible than you are – many people use their pregnancy as motivation to start practicing yoga, so chances are there will be plenty of beginners in the class!
Yoga is most effective when practiced daily, but sometimes it’s difficult to find time to set aside for a longer session. Even if you can only spare 15-30 minutes on a regular basis, you will still see the benefits of yoga.
If you’re interested in starting a yoga practice or would like some inspiration for how to integrate some of the most effective ‘asanas’ into your daily routine, take a look at our yoga offerings – including breathing techniques to help you focus and relax.
Yoga is so beneficial!
Practicing yoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to stay fit and calm. The stretches, breathing techniques, and increased strength and flexibility will all be extremely beneficial when the time comes to give birth. Not to mention, the calmness it brings to the mind is priceless during pregnancy.
Prenatal yoga is an excellent way to promote a healthy pregnancy and stress-free lifestyle. Not only does it improve circulation and release endorphins, but it’s also great for alleviating tension and keeping you feeling good throughout your pregnancy!
Studies have shown that women who practice yoga during pregnancy are less likely to develop high blood pressure or go into premature labor. Yoga can help to improve circulation, support the back and pelvis, and strengthen the muscles needed for childbirth.
There are many yoga poses, or asanas, that can help to create more space in your pelvis for your baby and ease back pain.
Yoga is a perfect way to ease the mind, refocus your energy, and prepare psychologically for your baby’s birth.
There are several poses that can assist or even speed up labor, easing your baby’s entry into the world – and help speed recovery after the birth as well. Pregnant women who practice yoga regularly often report shorter, less painful labors with fewer complications.
Breathing techniques, ‘pranayama’ can be invaluable during labor, helping you to relax and manage pain. Pranayama can help to ease the pain of contractions and can also be used as a form of pain relief during childbirth.
Joining a pregnancy yoga class is a great idea, especially if you can find a dedicated ante-natal class – but it’s also something you can practice at home too. Pregnancy yoga is not only beneficial for the mother-to-be, but also for the baby. It helps to relieve stress and tension in the muscles, and can also improve sleep.
All you need is comfortable clothing that will allow you to move around freely without restriction – although a supportive top will help improve your posture and distribute the weight of your baby more evenly across your back and shoulders. Additionally, leggings that are stretchy and cover your bump will be more comfortable as your body grows and changes shape.
Alexandra McCabe is the founder of FittaMamma, the go-to source for all things healthy pregnancy. FittaMamma offers free workout videos, recipes and step-by-step yoga guides to help women enjoy an active pregnancy. Click here to read about the benefits of pregnancy and postnatal yoga and how to integrate it into your everyday life.
