PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL YOGA
WHY DO I TEACH PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL YOGA?
Being pregnant and becoming a mum is probably one of the most intense but wonderful experiences in a woman's life.
I have long reflected on the meaning of the word "sacred", and have finally related it to "life". Growing and carrying life within oneself is, to me, the most sacred bond and selfless action human beings are capable of.
I am deeply touched by the miracle of pregnancy, and I feel honoured to be able to work with pregnant women and new mums, as their energy and purity of heart is something that I cannot experience anywhere else.
PREGNANCY YOGA
WHEN TO PRACTISE
It’s never too late to practise pregnancy yoga.
So if you are past your first trimester, come along and experience the benefits of yoga under the care of our expert pregnancy yoga teachers.
General guidelines are that you do not practise yoga during the first trimester. Start in the second trimester and continue your classes until before birth.
Be conscious of how your body feels and seek medical advice regarding any health issues.
Pregnancy yoga is suitable for both beginning students and experienced practitioners.
During pregnancy, yoga can play a key role in enhancing the experience of this precious time and empowering the mother-to-be to have the most conscious birth experience.
Yoga can help women enjoy their pregnancy with minimal discomfort, cultivate breath awareness and strengthen the body in preparation for labour.
Yoga also offers you the opportunity to connect with your baby, and coming to classes is a great way to feel part of a community of pregnant women.
POSTNATAL YOGA
WHEN TO PRACTISE
It is important to rest initially. The first six weeks after birth are a time for bonding with the baby and for the mother to recover. By the end of the first eight weeks of the postnatal period, women should be ready to return to their regular practice, but it is important to listen to what your body is ready to do.
Women with a yoga practice prior to pregnancy should be careful and not rush back into their usual yoga practice.
If you had a C-section, please make sure you have your doctor’s permission before returning to yoga.
These classes are for new mums and babies from six weeks to crawling.
As a mum, you’ll use movement, balancing strengthening and restorative poses to help you recover and build strength following pregnancy and birth.
It’s also a great time to connect with your baby in a nurturing and loving way, using play, touch, eye contact and sometimes singing.
Lots of people really value the community side of these classes.
Whatever experiences, stresses or concerns you bring to class, the teacher and other students are there to support and help you in whatever way they can.
And, of course, you can breastfeed, change nappies, allow your baby to simply sleep – whatever works for you and your baby at that time.