How to Safely Practice Pregnancy Yoga

Posted by Madeline White on May 8th, 2024

Although being pregnant is a wonderful experience, it can also cause aches, pains, and a shift in your entire system. One of the best ways to deal with these issues and strengthen your bond with your developing child is through prenatal yoga. But the most important thing is safety. 

The following are some tips for having a fun and safe pregnancy yoga practice:

Pay Attention to Your Body

This is your mantra throughout pregnancy.  Pregnancy yoga is not about pushing your limits. Be gentle, honour your changing body, and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.

Seek Advice

Avoid taking regular yoga lessons while you are expecting. Instead, participate in a pregnancy-specific yoga program taught by a trained teacher with experience in pregnant adjustments. They can modify poses and provide advice on safe techniques.

Keep Your Centre in Mind

Your centre of gravity changes during pregnancy, which raises the possibility of falls. Steer clear of deep twists that can put undue pressure on your core and poses that call for one-leg balance. Choose stable, grounded poses and offer extra support with blocks and bolsters.

Love for a Belly Bump

Be mindful of your growing baby's belly! Steer clear of positions that strain your abdomen, such as severe forward bends or lying flat on your back. Pay attention to low-impact stretches and adjustments that avoid compressing your abdomen.

Heat Does Not Help You

Ignore the heated yoga sessions.  During pregnancy, your body temperature naturally rises, and it can be harmful for both you and your unborn child to overheat. Aim for colder studios and drink plenty of water while practising.

Take Note of Your Breath

The foundation of pregnancy yoga is conscious breathing. Throughout your practice, pay attention to taking calm, deep breaths. Breathe normally while in any stance. Breathing correctly enhances your baby's oxygen delivery and circulation.

Recognise When to Say No

It's not appropriate to do some poses while pregnant. Steer clear of positions that strain your abdominal muscles, inversions (headstands and handstands), and breathing exercises that make you dizzy or short of breath. Never hesitate to decline a stance that doesn't feel comfortable.

Pregnancy yoga may be life-changing if you put safety first and pay attention to your body. It can ease the physical transitions of pregnancy, encourage calmness, and get your body ready for giving birth.