Many of our clients and students at Sol Yoga Collective are mothers, and so are some of our teachers. We hope that many of you get quality time with your mothers this weekend, or your children, and we hope that all of you feel nurtured and loved.
We are sometimes asked whether pregnant women can enjoy yoga throughout their pregnancy and the answer is yes. Of course you want to talk with your doctor if you have other health conditions to consider, but there are yoga practices for all stages of pregnancy and even beyond into the post-natal experience.
BEFORE
There are yoga practices that can help some women achieve conception. One in eight couples in America experience infertility, and yoga practices that encourage conception can offer hope. Did you know that yoga strengthens the body, balances your hormones, diminishes stress and anxiety, and can even improve sperm count for men?
It is recommended that women practice the gentler forms of yoga during their pregnancy, for the most effectiveness. Puppy Pose (a cross between Downward Dog and Child’s Pose) is a safe way to gently open the hips and shoulders and increase blood flow throughout the body. Goddess Pose (a modified version of Warrior II, in which your knees are bent into a 90-degree squatting position) is also very effective at opening the hips and embracing the woman of strength that you are.
DURING
During your First Trimester (while you can still rest on your stomach), try Bow Pose (Dhanurasana) to stretch your chest and minimize stiffness.
During your Second Trimester, we suggest Butterfly Pose (or BaddhaKonasana) to stretch open those hip flexors and find your balance.
And During your Third Trimester, nothing beats Legs-Up-The-Wall or Viparita Karani, to take pressure off your feet and stretch your low back.
AFTER
Once you have delivered, yoga not only helps new moms get back in touch with their bodies, but their spiritual lives as well. Take time to breathe and stretch and feel your endorphins. And if you can’t take a break from the baby, include them in your yoga practice! Stretch their arms and legs and cradle them as you rest in gentle poses. It’s a great bonding experience, and both you and your new baby will feel rewarded.
Whether you have children of your own or choose to nurture those around you in other ways – Happy Mother’s Day to all the creators around us!