Practicing yoga during pregnancy has physical and mental benefits. Prenatal yoga, as this form of yoga is called, incorporates movement, breathing and awareness. Physically, practicing yoga during pregnancy strengthens the mom-to-be's muscles and increases flexibility, both of which will be helpful during labor and delivery. The postures and movements of yoga may also ease certain discomforts of pregnancy, such as lower back pain and water retention. Yoga also promotes relaxation, reduces stress and creates an awareness of breathing -- all of which will benefit the mother during her pregnancy, labor and delivery. Consult your physician before beginning or continuing yoga practice, if you are pregnant.
Ease Pregnancy Pain
Yoga movements elongate the pelvis and reproductive organs -- and this can possibly ease the body into a smooth pregnancy. Regular yoga sessions may alleviate certain pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and mood swings. Integration movements (asanas) and breathing (pranayama) in yoga may decrease pain in the waist, back and joints, ease constipation and also reduce swelling in the legs. Prenatal yoga can also facilitate the movement of the digestive and circulatory systems of the body.
Labor and Delivery Assistance
A complete yoga routine for a pregnant woman encompasses yoga exercises, as well as proper breathing techniques, meditation, deep relaxation performance and mudras, which are yogic gestures. Controlled respiration, brought along by prenatal yoga breathing exercises, can release hormones that cleanse the body of toxins. In addition, mastering breathing technique can train the mind to release stress, anxiety and anger. This can make the mother-to-be more relaxed and ready for childbirth. Physically, yoga can prepare the pelvic floor muscles to become stronger and more elastic, thereby helping with the physicality of labor and delivery.
Post Natal Advantages
Consistent practice of prenatal yoga may reduce stretch marks and facilitate the new mother to get back into shape quicker after the baby is born. Regular yoga sessions during pregnancy can help the body remain limber and keep muscles toned -- as well as improve or maintain balance and circulation, with little or no impact on joints. Consult with a doctor before beginning a yoga routine after giving birth. Yoga is generally not advised until six weeks after a vaginal birth and often longer after a cesarean.
Fetal Benefits
In addition to benefits to the expecting mother, yoga during pregnancy may be beneficial to the developing fetus. Breathing techniques increase oxygen to the entire body, thereby allowing more oxygen in the blood to the fetus. Prenatal yoga movements teach the muscles of the uterus to support the space for the fetus in the womb, allowing the fetus to have maximum movement capability. Yoga also assists in relaxing the mother-to-be, which is a beneficial state for the fetus. During times of stress, the mother's body releases the hormone cortisol, which is detrimental for the fetus, as these hormones can also interfere with fetal growth.
Member Comments