Yoga during Pregnancy

Prenatal yoga is a powerful tool for pregnant women. Yoga helps the body undergo various changes beneficial for child birth. A prenatal program makes use of easy postures and positions that naturally help create space within the womb for the growing baby.

Yoga also helps maintain mind-body harmony. It is very important for a pregnant woman to stay healthy and in a happy state of mind. Yoga is one kind of exercise that can create deep relaxation and rejuvenation. Often, pregnancy brings in inactivity and lethargy due to extra tiredness and fluctuating emotions. Yoga is safe during all three trimesters under supervision. It will help you stay fit, active, and keep you in a happy and positive frame of mind.

Contact your doctor or a yoga specialist before you plan to start your yoga routine.

Few Examples of Yoga exercises for pregnant women are:

Triangle Pose
This pose helps stimulate the abdominal organs and improves digestion.

• Begin standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip-distance apart and your arms at your sides. Step your feet wide apart, about 4 to 5 feet.
• Turn your right foot out 90 degrees so your toes are pointing to the top of the mat. Pivot your left foot slightly inwards.
• Place your right hand on your hip and reach your left arm forward.
• Tip over to the left and stack your right shoulder over your left. Reach the right arm to the sky and look up. Breathe deeply, then switch to the other side.

Pranayama
Pranayama ensures that adequate oxygen flows through the body. This is most crucial during pregnancy, where your unborn baby completely depends on you for supply of oxygen. The correct balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide through conscious breathing makes your lungs stronger and blood pure. This helps in the healthy functioning of your body so that you can take optimum care of your baby. Avoid forceful breaths rapidly & holding the breath for a long period of time.

Contact your doctor and a yoga specialist before you plan to start your yoga routine.