Prenatal Yoga

Many healthcare providers agree that exercise during pregnancy not only relieves discomfort while pregnant but also eases the experience of labour. Practicing yoga cultivates both flexibility and strength, while deepening relaxation. With its low impact movements, yoga is perfect for keeping joints healthy. An article on www.babycentre.com, reviewed by Aaron Deutsch, MD, states the following about the benefits of prenatal yoga:

"Prenatal yoga classes are more popular than ever. When paired with a cardiovascular exercise such as walking, yoga can be an ideal way to stay in shape during your pregnancy.

Yoga is also beneficial because it helps you learn to breathe deeply and relax, which will come in handy as you face the physical demands of labor, birth, and motherhood. In fact, one of the first things you learn in a yoga class is how to breathe fully. The breathing technique known as ujjayi requires you to take in air slowly through your nose, filling your lungs, and exhale completely until your stomach compresses.

Learning how to do ujjayi breathing primes you for labor and childbirth by training you to stay calm when you need it most. When you're in pain or afraid, your body produces adrenalin and may decrease the production of oxytocin, a hormone that makes labor progress. A regular yoga practice will help you fight the urge to tighten up when you feel pain, and show you how to relax instead.

The benefits of yoga aren't limited to your physical well-being. "Taking a prenatal yoga class is a great way to meet other pregnant women — to become part of a community," says Cynthea Denise, a registered nurse and prenatal yoga instructor in Oakland, California. Being in a positive, supportive environment with others like you can give you a regular emotional boost and keep you motivated to continue exercising. "

Yoga promotes positive mind-body awareness. This helps mothers-to-be adapt to their changing bodies and connect with their babies on a deeper level. By practicing postures designed specifically for pregnancy, mothers increase their chances of having a beneficial fitness experience.

What will prenatal yoga do for you?

A regular yoga practice can:

• boost energy and lessen fatigue
• reduce physical and emotional tensions and stress
• enhance strength and confidence
• improve posture, stability and balance
• create optimal health and awareness
• reduce the likelihood and need of medical intervention during delivery
• encourage a positive childbirth experience

Resources:

1. www.yogaspace.com
2. www.babycentre.com