Do you feel stressed physically and emotionally because of your pregnancy? One of the oldest relaxation techniques in the world could help you feel a lot better during these months and to prepare yourself for delivery.  

What is yoga?

The general concept of yoga is to practice a series of postures that stretch the muscles. Yoga does involve stretching but the ultimate aim is to attain a balance of the body, mind and spirit. Body postures are really just one part of yoga. However, even if you don’t live the whole yoga philosophy, the physical exercises will be very beneficial for you.

Yoga postures can be practiced quickly, as a form of exercise, or in a slower fashion, in order to find the perfect alignment of each pose. Something interesting about yoga is that it is never mastered because the postures and the way they are carried out change constantly.  

Benefits of yoga during pregnancy

Yoga is recommended during pregnancy due to its effects on different parts of the body, and also due to the relaxation and breathing techniques it promotes.  

According to yoga experts, this practice during pregnancy will provide you with:

• Pranayama or breathing techniques, which provide a great amount of oxygen both for you and your baby.  

• Mudras or physical and psychic stimulation with postures that benefit the woman’s reproductive organs.

• Exercises that work the pelvis and the reproductive organs to help during delivery.  

• Meditation and relaxation that would help you to overcome the fears you may have concerning pregnancy and delivery and a deep connection with your baby.  

The effects of yoga during pregnancy

The practice of yoga has very specific effects on the discomforts of pregnancy and on the delivery process and the subsequent recovery. These effects include:  

• Helps to prevent swelling of the limbs.

• Prevents constipation, as it stimulates intestinal movement.  

• Helps to minimize nausea and mood swings in combination with breathing techniques.  

• Helps to alleviate tension in the cervix and birth canal.

The physical well-being it provides also has positive effects on a faster recovery after the delivery.  

Some precautions

In general, yoga postures are safe during pregnancy but you must be careful with those that require that you lie on your back for a long time, especially during the third trimester. The pressure of your belly on the main arteries, as you are lying on your back, can impede the flow of oxygen to your uterus.  

In the postures that require balance, hold on to the wall or on to the back of a chair, because as the months go on, your center of gravity shifts and you could lose your balance.  

In general, avoid any posture in which you are uncomfortable, especially if you get dizzy. Always have a bottle of water handy in order to keep yourself hydrated and listen to your body.  

The best way to become initiated in yoga during pregnancy is with a qualified teacher who is experienced in teaching yoga to pregnant women. He or she will be able to answer your questions and ensure that the postures you are engaging in are safe for you and your baby.