How and why Prenatal Yoga can help during pregnancy
From the moment you find out you are expecting your little bundle of joy, you would do anything for your baby. An excellent way to start is to try prenatal yoga. By doing this, you not only engage with your body, mind, and spirit, but you also learn to build a greater connection with the miracle that is growing inside of you. Prenatal yoga is an enjoyable experience that can help you to reap many incredible benefits.
Some of the benefits of prenatal yoga include relaxing the mind and body, strengthening the pelvic floor by doing Kegel exercises, and learning to breathe at a slow even pace. It helps you stay fit, increases circulation and flexibility. It also teaches you to do movements to help with aches and pains due to pregnancy and that you can do during labor, and even helps you with your balance when your baby starts to grow within you.
When prenatal yoga is regularly practiced during pregnancy, it helps you to have a smoother labor and delivery. You have taught yourself to breathe correctly, to stay calm and focus on your baby that you will soon meet. You have learned positions to help take your mind off the contractions. Your pelvic floor is now stronger and will allow for an easier delivery when it comes time to push.
The next step
If you are interested in practicing prenatal yoga, you can sign up for a yoga class in your area that specialized in this. It is an excellent way to meet other pregnant women. Alternatively, if you like, you could always use a prenatal yoga DVD or even stream it online in the comfort of your home with many online resources. Either way, all you need is a yoga mat and bottled water. There are also a few other items that could come in handy when doing prenatal yoga, such as a yoga strap (to help with stretching) and a yoga block (to help until you become more flexible), but yoga studios usually have this equipment there to use. If not you can usually pick up a nice quality set for around $30 – $50 at a local fitness store.
It is always a good idea to consult your physician before performing any new exercise regime. Remember during pregnancy your ligaments become looser, so if you are feeling discomfort or pain, make an adjustment or try an alternative position. You should always trust and listen to your body.
Namaste!
