By Jennifer Lynn Certified Instructor of Prenatal Yoga and Yoga

 

Prenatal Yoga has an abundance of benefits to help you along your pregnancy journey. From flowing through a series of strengthening poses (especially poses geared towards the pelvic floor region-such as “goddess squat”).  It can also help you learn different breathing exercises (to help calm the mind and create a strong brain and body connection that can help during labor and delivery-such as “alternate nostril breathing”). 

 

Prenatal Yoga  helps to  develop a deeper connection between you and your baby. Sometimes just the simple act of rolling out your mat in a prenatal class (or at home) can be a gentle reminder to take the time out of your busy schedule to seek self-care for YOU and your BABY. Your body will thank you later. It is designed to help alleviate the discomfort that can be caused by pregnancy and the new changes you’re experiencing in your body.  

 

As you may have guessed, It also helps tone the physical body, especially the pelvic floor, hip, and abdominal core muscles, in preparation for the birthing process. Some poses you’ll find to be so yummy you’ll catch yourself doing them at home. 

 

Some Tips I like to share before anyone practices Prenatal Yoga: 

 

1. Hydrate: 

 

With any yoga class (but especially prenatal) be sure to always drink enough water. It doesn’t matter how much of a sweat you break- during pregnancy it’s very important not to overheat the body too much. 

 

 

 

 

2. Stay off your back:

 

Avoid any exercises after the first trimester where you’re lying on your back for a long period of time. Your baby’s growing weight puts pressure on your vena cava (a major vein that brings blood to your heart), interfering with circulation and making you feel dizzy and nauseous. 

 

 

3. Skip hot yoga:

Avoid practicing yoga in any extreme heat-keep things cool and comfortable. 

 

 

4. Stay balanced:

 

Avoid deep abdominal work, backbends, and twists. Your center of gravity can be off during pregnancy, and backbends and twists may increase your chances of falling. 

 

Bottom line-as with most things during your pregnancy, if it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. The best advice I can give….. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Like any physical activity during pregnancy bc sure to run it by your doctor or midwife to make sure it’s right for you. 

 

You got this momma!”

 

I'm Jennifer Lynn certified in prenatal yoga and yoga instructor for more tips don't forget to follow me on Instagram as  @cle_yoga_vibes