If you are an expectant mother looking for recommendations and tips about ways to stay fit and also relax whilst carrying your baby to term, then it is highly likely that you have come across more than a few suggestions for pregnancy yoga in your searches.
Although laying down in bed or on the couch with a bowl full of your chosen craving might seem like the more preferable option (especially the further into your pregnancy you get!), the truth is that a gentle form of prenatal yoga is probably one of the best activities that you can take part in not only for your current health but also for the health of the precious cargo growing inside you.
We can tell that some of you still aren't convinced but keep on reading! To help you better understand the range of benefits that pregnancy yoga offers and what the process actually involves, here is a brief rundown of everything that you need to know about pregnancy yoga!
What Are The Benefits Of Pregnancy Yoga? Some of the main benefits of taking up something like prenatal yoga include:
● Improving your quality of sleep which is absolutely vital for both your physical health and your mental health while coping with the discomfort of late stage pregnancy.
● Helping to reduce and ease feelings of stress and anxiety that are bound to occur during such an exciting but worrying time in your life.
● Increasing your strength, endurance and flexibility to not only help you carry your child more comfortably, but also help your body cope better in the act of childbirth.
● Decreasing classic pregnancy side effects like lower back pain, headaches, nausea and shortness of breath.
What Happens During Pregnancy Yoga? During a pregnancy yoga session, you will perform a variety of exercises including:
● Breathing - you will be asked to focus on your breathing, controlling in and out and making sure to breathe through your nose. Learning these techniques will help to manage shortness of breath during your labor.
● Gentle stretches - you will be encouraged to improve your full range of motion from your neck to your arms and everything in between.
● Posture - working on your posture through different positions can build strength, balance and flexibility, also with props like belts, cushions and even blankets!
● Cool down and relaxation - probably the most enjoyable part of the class! This part will help to relax your muscles and restore your natural breathing rhythm, bringing a great sense of inner calm that any expectant mother is in big need of!
So, now that you know exactly what happens at a pregnancy yoga class, and exactly why you should consider signing up for a few sessions, the only thing left to do is make sure that you have all of the appropriate kit! All you need is the best yoga mat under your arm, a whole basket of enthusiasm, and you will be ready to go in no time at all!
