When should I start doing prenatal yoga? It is never too early to start prenatal yoga. In fact, many people join in prenatal yoga when they are beginning their journey to become pregnant. Also, it is never too late to start doing prenatal yoga. Moving your body will help you to feel better, to increase your energy and to feel supported by a community of people who are going through the journey of parenthood.
How many times per week should I do prenatal yoga? A daily prenatal yoga practice will benefit you and your baby immensely, even if that is just 5 minutes of yoga at home. Any movement is always better than none. Even if you can only practice prenatal yoga one time per week, you body and your baby will thank you.
What is the difference between yoga and prenatal yoga? At Haumea, our Prenatal Yoga classes are training for labor and birth. Labor is called LABOR for a reason. It takes a lot of hard work. Prenatal yoga will connect your body and your mind. So you know that you can get through then next contraction with your breath. So you can stay soft and open even as intensity builds. So you can take time to connect with your baby.
Can I do regular yoga when pregnant? Absolutely! Times have changed when it comes to views of pregnant people and movement. If you have a vigorous yoga practice, you can absolutely stick with it. As your baby grows you may find some yoga poses to not work for your body. You may start to take your legs wider to make room for your baby. Or you may find that some yoga poses just don’t feel good any more. The most important thing in your yoga practice is to LISTEN to YOUR body and YOUR intuition.
Is Downward Dog OK when pregnant? YES! Downward dog can alleviate pressure on your pelvic floor. Downward dog can lengthen your spine and relieve back tension. Downward dog is a wonderful pose to incorporate into your prenatal yoga practice.