Is Pregnancy Yoga Right for You?

Exercising while pregnant is a great way to stay healthy. Yoga is a low impact form of exercising that can help a mother-to-be in so many positive ways. Pregnancy Yoga can give a mom a positive feeling, which is especially helpful during her pregnancy when she may feel less in control.

Yoga involves gently stretching the muscles in the body preventing them from remaining tense and tight. This releases chemicals in your body that are naturally soothing.Yoga also teaches proper breathing techniques that help you relax and to keep enough oxygen in the body. The breathing technique will be the same one that is used during labor.

Breathing correctly is especially important if you want to reap the full benefits of pregnancy yoga. Sometimes when exercising you may forget to breath correctly. This may cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded and lose your balance. Proper breathing is done by closing your mouth and taking a very deep breath using your diaphragm, and slowly allowing it to flow out of your mouth.

Yoga can be done at home or in a group, which ever you feel more comfortable in. If you're new to yoga, it's probably better that you find an experienced trainer to help you.

Benefits of Yoga

The benefits of pregnancy yoga far outweigh the risk, as long as it is done appropriately. Pregnancy yoga can reduce edema, or swelling that usually occurs further along in your pregnancy. It also reduces cramping, nausea, and morning sickness. It helps regulate your energy level and promotes regular bowel movements.

Pregnancy yoga can teach pregnant moms how to respond to pain and stress by learning how to physically and mentally relax their bodies, which in turn minimizes pain. It also relieves the fear and the anticipation that causes tension. 

Because yoga gently stretches the muscles in your body, it will help your body adjust to your growing baby. Your body will be prepared to handle the added weight that your baby will gain as he or she grows.

In order to make the most from your pregnancy yoga there are some rules to follow.

1. Drink plenty of water. Keeping your body hydrated is a very important part of a healthy pregnancy. Without adequate fluids your body can dehydrate easily, which can cause cramping and may cause premature labor.

2. Make sure to breathe properly while exercising to prevent dizziness.

3. Stop exercising immediately if you start to feel any pain or discomfort.

4. Always check with your doctor before starting pregnancy yoga.

5. Allow time to warm up and cool down each time.

6. Never lie flat on your back during exercise. When you lie on your back, you put pressure on one of the main veins in your body. It can decrease the blood flow to your uterus, putting the baby in distress. It can also cause you to feel dizzy or nauseous. If you need to absolutely need to lie on your back, place a pillow under your hip to relieve the pressure.

7. Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movements.

8. Don't push yourself too far because you might overheat. You may get dizzy and have difficulty cooling down. It is very important that you don't raise your body temperature too high.

Pregnancy Yoga is very helpful in preparing your body for labor and delivery. If you did not have an exercise regime before you were pregnant, it’s not too late to start. Consult your doctor before starting pregnancy yoga.