Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

Yoga, the age-old art is based on physical, spiritual, and mental well-being of a person. Although, it has been popular in Asian civilizations for many centuries, it's only now that the western world has realized its importance for both the mind and the body. Prenatal yoga encourages stretching, mental centering, and focused breathing.

During pregnancy, the best way to exercise and keep yourself physically and mentally fit, is by combining yoga with walking. You may either join a class and practice it under a trained teacher or you can practice it by yourself at home. For a beginner, it is advised that he/she join a class to avoid following incorrect postures of the asanas.

It is known to improve blood circulation in the body. Swelling, which is caused due to water retention, are very common in pregnancy. However, yoga can bring down the swelling and inflammation in the legs to a great extent by improving the blood circulation.

It increases the flexibility of the muscles of the body. It stretches the muscles and tones them, thereby making them strong. Women affected by lower back pain especially benefit by practicing it, as it stretches the back muscles. It also improves the posture, which otherwise undergoes a change during pregnancy, and helps relieve back pain.

As everyone knows, yoga not only maintains the physical well-being, but also contributes to mental fitness. During pregnancy, women can be under a lot of stress due to the physical and hormonal changes. Also, the bodily pains, and not to mention the morning sickness, headaches, and nausea, can make them feel very agitated. Yoga poses can help her maintain a calm mind, and reduce any mental and physical stress.

One of the yoga techniques that is taught to a pregnant woman is to locate the tension in the body and release it. This technique helps her release the tension, every time she experiences a contraction. It also makes the labor less painful.

Various breathing exercises, which are a part of this discipline, increase the amount of oxygen in the body. This is beneficial for the health of both the mother and the unborn child.

During pregnancy, you should carefully choose the exercises by consulting a doctor. Only after the doctor gives you a go ahead, that you should start with this regimen.

Some of the popular poses are - Cobbler's Pose, Downward-facing Dog Pose, Tree Pose, Warrior Pose, Squatting, and Cat-cow Pose. Although these poses are safe during pregnancy, if you feel any discomfort while doing them, inform your instructor immediately. Also, drink enough water throughout the day, and keep the body hydrated during the exercises.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this Story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.