The Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

When envisioning your birth, you may have an idea of how you want the space to feel, and thoughts about how you would like the birth to go, but you may be left wondering how you'll be able to cope with the intensity of your contractions. A deep sense of unrest may be settling in as you contemplate what tools are available to prepare your body, mind, and spirit to welcome your baby.

Working with your body during pregnancy can be an excellent tool to prepare yourself for labor. Choosing a low impact modality like Prenatal Yoga benefits the body as your ligaments lengthen and tissues soften due to hormonal changes. You may also notice an improvement in your mental and emotional state with regular practice.

Carve out time whenever you can to cultivate your practice. Consistency is key, even if you only find twenty minutes to spare twice a week. The goal is learning how to find ease within the movement. In your practice, you will find those juicy moments where you have an opportunity to lovingly meet your appropriate edge.

The contracting and stretching of your muscles in certain poses might feel intense- similar to the intense sensations felt when the uterus contracts, and cervix stretches during labor. Use these moments to your advantage and train your body to relax into the sensations. Drop your shoulders, release any tension in your jaw and brow. Slow, deep breathes. Allow your body to soften. This will become muscle memory with consistency, and will serve you well in labor as you ride the waves with minimal effort.

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