Practicing prenatal yoga can benefit both mother and child. Prenatal yoga focuses on breathing techniques and gentle stretching. These classes are designed to make you more flexible and prepare you for labor.
If you’re expecting, you may want to consider trying a prenatal yoga class in a studio or at home.
What Is Prenatal Yoga?
Prenatal yoga is a type of yoga designed for pregnant women. Yoga is intended to create a balance between emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions. Prenatal yoga is about helping you prepare for childbirth by relaxing the body and focusing on safe techniques and poses in all stages of pregnancy.
Yoga can improve your physical and psychological health — and not just for the duration of your pregnancy. If you didn’t practice yoga before pregnancy, it’s best to talk to your doctor before starting any prenatal yoga classes.
Why You Might Want to Try Prenatal Yoga
It’s good for you and your baby to get at least 30 minutes of movement each day. You don’t need to do extensive workouts to see the benefits of exercise. Prenatal yoga is a low-impact fitness routine that can help improve your mood and sleep, increase your strength and flexibility, and decrease lower back pain and other common symptoms of pregnancy.
More Benefits of Doing Prenatal Yoga Include
Reduces Stress and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
The combination of intentional movement and structured breathing can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Breathing in slow, rhythmic breaths activates the nervous system and blocks cortisol, which, in high amounts, has been linked to depression.
Improves Blood Flow
The stretching and movements in yoga help increase blood flow to your heart. Improved blood flow means more oxygen-rich blood is going to your baby. This keeps your baby on track for healthy development.
Betters Your Labor Experience
Starting prenatal yoga in any trimester can help you better relax and stay positive once you go into labor. Meditation and breathing exercises have been shown to reduce pain and anxiety during labor. Being confident and building your coping abilities will also help you have a less painful labor experience.
