7 Benefits of Prenatal Yoga
By Brandi Koskie - Senior Editor for DietsInReview.com
Pregnancy is no doubt one of the most joyous times in a woman's life. It can also be one of the most trying. The physical and emotional demands are nothing short of constant. For one reason, we worry how our bodies will stand-up to the pregnancy, and how we'll come out on the other side just as we were before. Prenatal yoga is one way to help you throughout pregnancy and even in to recovery.
With a doctor's clearance, you should be able to begin a prenatal yoga regimen at the start of your second trimester. You should find an instructor who specializes in this delicate form of yoga to ensure you're getting the best guidance while practicing.
Some of the many benefits you might experience with a prenatal yoga regimen are:
1. Finding Relaxation. During the hour-long class you can focus solely on yourself, your body, your needs, and that connection with your baby.
2. Alleviating Pain. The gentle stretching motions will help to relieve the kinks, aches and pains that seem to compound daily. You'll walk easier and feel less pressure and strain in your hips and back. Mention specific problem areas that you have so your instructor can concentrate on movements to help.
3. Sleeping Better. Many women suffer from insomnia or even restless sleep while pregnant. You might find that after an evening session of yoga you're able to slip into a sound sleep.
4. Strengthening Muscles. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that can help you to maintain muscle tone and strength. While your body is naturally more flexible due to the changing hormones, you should be cautious to avoid muscle strain.
5. Finding Support. You'll find a great sense of community in a prenatal yoga class, as you can seek advice and provide it to the group of pregnant women attending with you.
6. Easing Delivery. You will want to channel your yogic breathing skills during labor and delivery. If the panting-style breathing is too chaotic for you, this calmer, more channeled method of breathing can increase the oxygen supply to your body and baby's. Rather than straining and fighting through contractions, you can calmly think your way through for a smoother labor.
7. Recovering. The little-known "fourth trimester" requires just as much caution and patience by the new mom. Once cleared by the doctor, you can resume the prenatal yoga regimen while your body returns to its new version of normal. Yoga can help speed the recovery process and make it easier.
While every woman, pregnancy and body are different, staying active and maintaining a healthy diet throughout pregnancy has vast benefits for mom and baby, no matter who you are.
Learn more about a healthy pregnancy at DietsInReview.com:
5 Pregnancy Diet Tips from Jillian Michaels
Pros and Cons of Pregnancy Pilates from Alana Reed
Getting in Shape After Baby with Yoga
Should I Exercise During My Pregnancy?
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