Visiting a local yoga centre when pregnant has got a lot of benefits. Prenatal yoga can benefit both the child and the mother. It focuses on gentle stretching and breathing techniques. The classes are designed to make you flexible and help you prepare for labour. If you are expecting, you may consider trying prenatal yoga at home or in a yoga studio.
What is prenatal yoga?
This is a type of yoga designed for expectant mothers. Yoga is intended to help you balance your mental, emotional, spiritual and physical dimensions. Prenatal yoga helps you prepare for childbirth by focusing on safe techniques and relaxing your body during pregnancy.
Prenatal yoga can improve your psychological and physical health
Not just for the duration of pregnancy but also before pregnancy and after pregnancy. It is best to talk to your physician before you start your yoga classes.
Benefits of prenatal yoga
It is good for both you and your baby to get at least thirty minutes of movement daily. You do not need to do extensive workouts to benefit from exercise. Prenatal yoga is typically a low-impact fitness routine. It can help you improve your sleep and mood, increase your flexibility and strength and reduce your lower back pain. Here are some top benefits of prenatal yoga.
Reduces symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety
When you combine structured breathing and intentional movement in yoga classes, you can alleviate symptoms of stress and depression. Breathing in rhythmic and slow breaths activates the nervous system. It also blocks cortisol which has been linked to depression when it is in high amounts.
Improves blood flow
The movements and stretching in yoga help blood flow smoothly to your heart. This means that you will have more blood rich in oxygen going to your baby. This will keep the baby healthy and boost the development of the baby.
Improves your labour experience
When you start prenatal yoga, it can help you better relax your body and mind and help you stay positive once you get into labour. Breathing exercises and meditation have been shown to reduce anxiety and pain during labour. Building your coping abilities and being confident will help you have less painful labour.
Builds a support system
Prenatal yoga can help your social life by helping you connect with other expectant moms. When you have a strong support system, it makes postpartum and childbirth easier. Delivery anxiety can make labour worse. When you meet other women and talk about your experience, you will hear stories from other expectant mothers and this will comfort you.
Safety considerations
Exercise and movement are great when it comes to staying healthy during pregnancy. However, pushing yourself too hard can pose a lot of challenges. Certain yoga poses and exercises can be very dangerous to both you and your baby. There are some types of yoga you should avoid when pregnant. Do not go to a local yoga centre that provides hot yoga because this type of yoga can be dangerous.