Pregnancy Yoga
What is Pregnancy Yoga?
Much like other types of childbirth-preparation classes, pregnancy yoga (or prenatal yoga) is a multifaceted approach to exercise that encourages stretching, mindful centring and focused breathing. Combing yoga and hypnobirthing during pregnancy helps you prepare for labour and promote your baby’s health.
Pregnancy Yoga with Hypnobirthing classes gives you the confidence to trust your instincts and work with your body during labour.
As long as your doctor has given you the green light to stay physically active during pregnancy, yoga is an ideal activity for all expectant mums.
What are the benefits?
Research suggests that by practising pregnancy yoga you can:
- Improve sleep
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Increase the strength, flexibility and endurance of muscles needed for childbirth
- Decrease lower back pain, nausea, carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, headaches and shortness of breath
- Pregnancy yoga can also help you meet other pregnant women and prepare for the stress of being a new parent.
A typical class will include;
An introduction. Each week before class begins you will be asked how you are, any aches or discomfort you may be having with your body and postures that may help with that, this will also give you time to get to know others in the group.
Warm-up. You'll slowly get your body moving, so your muscles and joints are ready for class.
Postures. While standing, sitting or lying on the ground, you'll gently move your body into different positions aimed at developing your strength, flexibility and balance. Props — such as blankets and cushions — might be used to provide support and comfort.
Pelvic floor. There will incorporate pelvic floor and abdominal toning exercises.
Gentle stretching. You'll gently move different areas of your body, such as your neck and arms, through their full range of motion.
Breathing. We will practice a variety of effective breathing techniques you can use during labour.
Deep relaxation. At the end of each class, you'll relax your muscles and restore your resting heart rate and breathing rhythm. You might be encouraged to listen to your own breathing, pay close attention to sensations, thoughts and emotions, or repeat a mantra or word to bring about a state of self-awareness and inner calm.
Why include hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing breathing techniques are proven to help reduce or manage shortness of breath during pregnancy and work through contractions during labour. You will also have a greater connection with your baby whilst preparing your mind and body for a more calm birthing experience. This winning combination can help you feel good and learn how to use your breathing to remain calm, and, best of all, learn to relax.
When and where do classes run?
Our unique classes combining pregnancy yoga with some hypnobirthing techniques are held in South Croydon
Who is this suitable for and when to begin?
You can join this class anytime from 20 weeks, and it is safe to practice right up to birth.
Even if it’s not your first pregnancy, you may want to consider attending as every pregnancy, labour and delivery is different, so even seasoned pros can benefit from a refresh.
With this being a favoured class, most mums continue once they have joined. Keep in mind that the sooner you register, the more likely you are to ensure you have secured a place.
This Pregnancy Yoga South Croydon class is suitable for all birth choices and is available to anyone who desires to create a more calm and confident birthing experience.
Top 10 reasons to join!
- More physical comfort during pregnancy
- Learn hypnobirthing breathing techniques
- Improve your quality of sleep and learn how to relax
- Bond with your baby and learn how to trust your body
- Promote your baby's comfort and health
- Help your baby to get into the best possible position for birth
- Balance emotions as you start to build confidence
- Let go of negative stories and concerns you may have about birth
- Have video support with everything you need to build your home practice
- Feel empowered and have more confidence, not only for you but for your birthing partner
When can you join us?
You can begin from your 20th week and practice right up to your birth – no previous experience is necessary.
The results speak for themselves; read our happy mums' testimonials and birth stories.
Jayne Micallef, DYCT, DipHb(KG)