Increases overall strength, flexibility & well-being - When you practice yoga, you are not only stretching your muscles, you are stretching the tissues that encase your muscles, stimulating your organ systems, promoting the circulation of blood and oxygen, breathing more intentionally, and focusing your attention inward through imagery and meditation. The combined effect is intended to be one that promotes a heightened state of physical and emotional well-being. Reduces low back pain & sciatica - As you become acutely aware of proper body alignment, you can carry yourself and your belly in an integrated manner. This can help to reduce the degree of pelvic tilt associated with pregnancy and significantly reduce the lower back pain which it can cause. Additionally, there are specific yoga poses which stretch the muscles and tissues associated with the lower back, hips, and hamstrings. Reduces aches & fatigue in the thoracic & cervical regions of the spine - During pregnancy, it can be difficult to find a space for yourself when trying to sleep. Certain yoga poses create more fluidity in the spine by stretching the para spinal muscles. Reduces swelling & inflammation around your joints - A regular and consistent asana practice improves and promotes the circulation of blood and oxygen throughout your body. This, in turn, can reduce swelling and inflammation around ankles and wrists. Aids in digestion - As baby grows, your intestinal organs get pushed and squeezed, which may affect your regularity and cause indigestion. Safe and gentle rotations and forward folds can help to promote regularity and aid in overall digestive flow. Helps prepare you physically for giving birth - A regular practice of squatting asana helps to tone muscles of your pelvic floor and helps you gain strength to remain comfortable in a squatting position. This is an integral part of any yoga program as it helps to familiarize you with these very useful muscles. Even if you choose not to squat during labor, you will want to be able to use these muscles efficiently and effectively when nature calls upon you to push your baby into the world. Improves emotional well-being - Some programs may even include discussions about pregnancy-related topics such as doulas, nursing, and birth plans. Reduces Stress, Adrenalin & Cortisol Production in your body! - when you are stressed, depressed or worried, your body creates both adrenalin and a stress hormone called Cortisol. Studies have shown that high levels of Adrenalin and Cortisol affect the brain chemistry growth of the baby in a negative way. Yoga and pranayama (breathing practises) reduce stress, calming Cortisol and Adrenalin production. Once you learn these skills you can use yogic breath in your life...anywhere, anytime! You don't need to be in class!
