Pregnancy/ prenatal yoga can be a great way to prepare for childbirth. Not only is it a great way to relax and stay fit, but it can also promote your baby’s health, and it can get your body ready for childbirth.
Before you get started in pregnancy yoga it is a good idea to understand the range of possible benefits, as well as what a typical class will entail.
(Please ensure you speak to a doctor before undertaking any new form of exercise).
The benefits
Much like other types of pregnancy exercise classes, pregnancy yoga is a multifaceted approach that encourages stretching, mental centering and focussed breathing. It is also a great chance for you to meet other pregnant women, who are going through the same experience as you.
Pregnancy yoga can:
Improve sleep quality
Reduce stress and anxiety
Increase strength and flexibility
Increase the endurance of muscles needed for childbirth
Decrease lower back pain, nausea, headaches and shortness of breath
What is involved in a typical pregnancy yoga class?
A typical pregnancy yoga class might include:
Breathing exercises: you will be encouraged to focus on breathing techniques, these can help you reduce, or manage, shortness of breath during pregnancy and throughout the labour.
Gentle stretching: you will be guided through some gentle stretches, to activate your muscles and to push them through their full range of movement.
Posture: whether you are standing, sitting or laying down you will gently move your body into different positions, these are aimed at developing your strength, flexibility and balance.
Cool down and relaxation: at the end of each pregnancy yoga class you will relax your muscles, reduce your heart rate and bring yourself to a state of calm.
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