Pregnant? Prenatal yoga could be the best way to stay active
If you’ve got a bun in the oven, you may be looking for a new way to exercise during pregnancy. Here’s why prenatal yoga could be the answer.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or your fourth, pregnancy marks the start of a new phase of life – including how you move your body.
And when it comes to staying active, prenatal yoga offers an array of benefits, for both mum and bub.
What exactly is prenatal yoga?
Prenatal yoga is a light form of yoga designed specifically for pregnancy.
Prenatal yoga teacher and Yogababy founder Suzanne Swan says it offers a gentle and safe way to move your body while pregnant.
“Some of the postures used in regular yoga classes – such as deep twists and backbends – as well as some of the more vigorous practices such as hot yoga, aren’t recommended during pregnancy,” Suzanne says.
A prenatal yoga class offers safe modifications of what would normally be offered in a regular yoga class, she explains.
Classes focus on gentle stretching, strengthening and breathing exercises designed to help women adapt to the bodily changes that come with growing a baby, both physically and mentally, Suzanne says.
They often involve elements of meditation too, she says, helping women to tune in to the mind-body connection, which can help relieve stress and maintain a sense of calm throughout pregnancy.
Benefits of prenatal yoga
Prenatal yoga is an antidote to many uncomfortable pregnancy moments.
“It can help women stay fit during pregnancy, which can help alle[……]