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Yoga
and Pregnacy
Yoga has
been used for centuries to help center a person and relive stress. In
many countries yoga for pregnancy is considered the only option. Yoga
can be a great way to stay flexible, relive stress and prepare for birth.
By using, stretching and cultivating the muscles for birth, you inherently
make birth easier. The muscles are prepared by the yoga to do their
job efficiently in labor. Not to mention the glorious relaxation skills
that you can bring to your birth after the months of practicing.
Hatha
Yoga is a safe, simple and natural method of preparing for the miracle
of childbirth. Hatha Yoga combines breathing and relaxation techniques
with stretching, strengthening, and balancing exercises.
Regardless of your stage of pregnancy, these exercises help to:
1. Align your body optimally for healthy carriage and delivery of
the baby,
2. Provide breathing and relaxation techniques to use during pregnancy
and labor,
3. Create more space for baby, breathing, and digestion,
4. Reduce discomfort in upper and lower back.
A little known fact is that there is a (non-impact) aerobic component
to yoga. Yoga postures strengthen the heart muscles and increase lung
elasticity, making these and other organs work more efficiently. The
resulting benefits include increased energy level, and improved circulation
and digestion. Strength and resistance training occur naturally in the
postures. Yoga fosters heightened kinesthetic awareness, which improves
coordination, balance, and not to mention self confidence.
Yoga can also alleviate the discomforts caused by pregnancy. There are
poses for sciatic pain, round ligament pain, and yes, even morning sickness.
Often after pregnacy, many women continue yoga as life long practice
finding that yoga simply feels good for the mind ,body and spirit.
As with any exercise program it is best to consult your practitioner
before beginning. The most important thing to remember in yoga practice
is to listen to your body.
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