Yoga is holistic system perfect for women who want to feel fit, healthy and happy during pregnancy. Instructor and owner of Illuminate Yoga share with us some of the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of yoga during pregnancy.
Body – A good yoga teacher will ask you about any pre-existing conditions and your current pregnancy symptoms. Most classes will include women at different stages of pregnancy and the teacher will modify poses to suit everyone. It’s best to be guided by your own comfort. Stop and rest when you need to and let the teacher know if something doesn’t feel right.
Prenatal yoga classes usually include poses to:
- Strengthen the spine and legs
- Open the hips and pelvis and
- Alleviate conditions include nausea, back ache, fluid retention and indigestion
Many teachers also include positions, visualisation, breathing techniques and vocal toning that can be used during the birth. You will be encourages to embrace your body’s changes and feel confident, strong and capable.
Mind - Meditation is a core aspect of yoga. It stills the mind and encourages focus so it is especially beneficial during pregnancy because childbirth requires you to surrender and ‘get in the zone’. This zone is a place where you stop thinking and start being.
By the time we reach adulthood we have spent years in non-surrender; holding on to negative thought patterns and behaviours and acting the way we thinking we should. Surrender involves allowing yourself to become primal and instinctual. When this happens the natural birth process unfolds and hopefully minimal intervention is needed.
Spirit – Pregnancy is a sacred time and childbirth is a wondrous event. Prenatal yoga celebrates both. It encourages you to honour yourself and start developing a relationship with your son or daughter.
A good prenatal yoga class will leave you feeling strong, confident, calm and happy. The focus on the breath will help to surrender to the birth process and your new role as a mother. Pregnancy is a time of great transformation for women and prenatal yoga will help to connect to your body, breath and growing baby as well as prepare you for a positive, empowering birth experience.
To find out more about pregnancy yoga, please contact Amanda on 0404 876 820 or visit www.illuminateyoga.com.au and let her know Mother Maternity sent you.
