The benefits of exercise in pregnancy have been well documented. Yoga is an excellent choice for a low impact form of exercise at all stages of pregnancy. The physical and emotional benefits of yoga for pregnant women are numerous.
Prenatal yoga has been shown to reduce many of the common discomforts associated with pregnancy. The aches and pains that are common in pregnancy are often relieved by gentle stretching, such as low back pain, sciatica, headaches and fatigue that are associated with pregnancy. Yoga helps you deal with the changes your body is experiencing and adapt to your changing body.
The regular practice of yoga helps you breathe better and improves circulation in the body. This brings more oxygen rich blood to your baby, which can reduce complications during pregnancy and improves the general health and well being of both mom and baby.
Yoga also offers many emotional benefits that are great for pregnant women. Prenatal yoga relieves anxiety, improves and stabilizes the mood and relieves stress. This results in relaxation of the mind and body throughout your pregnancy.
A regular yoga practice tones the muscles of the body and prepares you for labor. You will experience improvements in flexibility, stretch the muscles, aligns the pelvis and strengthens the muscles you will use to bring your baby into the world. This can result in an easier and more efficient labor.
When selecting a class, look for a prenatal yoga class that has been designed specifically for pregnant women and taught by an instructor who is experienced in teaching yoga to pregnant women. If you can’t find a prenatal class, a gentle stretch hatha class taught by someone experienced in pregnancy and yoga is a good choice. An experienced teacher will be able to modify the class to fit your needs at all stages of pregnancy.