Five Benefits of Pregnancy Yoga
Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Maybe you’ve heard about pregnancy yoga but you’re unsure what it’s about.
Read on to find out how either starting, or continuing yoga during pregnancy could benefit you:
Meet Other Mums-to-be
I create a safe space and we start every class with some time to chat. This is a great opportunity to get anything off your chest, raise concerns, ask any questions or share tips with others who are on the same journey.
We also have a thriving class whatsapp group where people often arrange meet-ups outside of class.
Seeing mums-to-be making friends and meeting up when they have had their babies is one of the best parts of my job!
Stay Mobile, Move Safely and Prepare for Labour
I include specially adapted poses and flows to help you to stay mobile while gently building or retaining strength through movement curiosity.
Some poses are specifically chosen to help encourage your baby into an optimal position for birth, as well as movements that can be used during labour to make contractions more manageable.
Relax, Escape and Unwind from Daily Life
Every class includes pranayama (breathing) exercises that are selected to help during pregnancy and labour. Deep breathing produces endorphins and tells the mind we are safe, reducing the release of the stress hormone cortisol. Taking deep, calming breaths is linked to the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers which can help during labour.
We end every session with a long, guided candlelit meditation which is guaranteed to leave you ready for a great night's sleep.
Bond with Your Body and Your Bump
Dedicating time just for you is a great way not only to help come to terms with the changes your body is going through but also to start, or strengthen your bond with your bump. Many women relish the opportunity to slow down, leave behind the stresses of everyday life and do something that’s just for them and their bump.
Provide Relief from Common Pregnancy Complaints
During pregnancy, your body changes more rapidly than at any other time. Pregnancy yoga offers the opportunity to safely stretch out common areas of discomfort (lower back, neck, shoulders), leaving you feeling serene. I also adapt classes to meet your needs, whether it's hip discomfort (PGP), carpal tunnel syndrome or something else. Classes are kept small to ensure they suit everyone.
If you would like to find out more or are interested in joining my weekly pregnancy yoga classes (either live and online or at Flow For All Yoga in Norton, Malton), please don’t hesitate to contact me at: jessevansyoga@gmail.com or find me on Facebook and Instagram @jessevansyoga
