WMLHacker: Prenatal Yoga

"Use yoga to live, love, and learn about yourself and your strengths.

Be at peace, and be at one with yourself." ---- Marti

Being pregnant doesn't mean you have to give up exercise. But if marathon training is part of your daily ritual, that's a different story. Here are some ways to keep active while a new life develops inside you.

To learn about three popular prenatal activities, read more.

Walking: Since you can walk wherever and whenever you please, this one should be a no brainer. Just remember to take it easy. And, if you are planning on taking a longer stroll— bring water, a snack and a cell phone in case of an emergency.
Prenatal Yoga: Similar to traditional yoga, mums–to–be have the option to stretch and pose in strengthening positions, but are shown variations depending on their comfort and ability levels.
Prenatal Swimming: Swimming is an excellent exercise for pregnant ladies because it relieves a lot of the pressure that the growing belly puts on the mama's back. It also helps strengthen the arms and legs without exerting force on the back or belly. Plus, there's a mental benefit to feeling light as a feather as you bob around the water.

All of the above exercises can help a mom get physically prepared for the laboring process. But whatever exercise you choose to do, be aware of your body's limitations and check with your physician first.

First Time Yogis

Many women who have never done yoga before find that it is an ideal form of exercise during their pregnancies and beyond.

Read up on how to start doing yoga. When looking for a class, stick to those labeled "Prenatal Yoga," as these teachers will best be able to

instruct you. If you do go to a regular class, be sure to tell the teacher you are pregnant right away. Some women who work throughout their pregnancies only have time to take up prenatal yoga in the third trimester. You will still benefit from the classes if this is your situation, but the earlier you start in your pregnancy, the better.

Long Time Yogis

Yoga devotees will be happy to know you can continue to practice yoga throughout your pregnancy. As your belly grows, a few adaptations to your regular practice will be necessary. You may continue to take your regular classes as long as you feel comfortable doing so, but make sure to let the teacher know you are pregnant and don't feel obligated to practice at your pre-pregnancy intensity. Make sure to look at the Trimester Guidelines, above, to find out what poses to avoid. It's also a good idea to take prenatal yoga classes to meet other moms-to-be and learn about childbirth.

Home Practitioners

If you are a dedicated home practitioner, begin to do Prenatal Sun Salutations and incorporate these prenatal recommended poses. Study the Trimester Guidelines to make sure you understand which poses to avoid. You may also want to attend some prenatal yoga classes for the sense of community and to inspire your home practice.

After Your Pregnancy

After you have your baby, you may be eager to resume your yoga practice. Doctors usually recommend six weeks of recovery time for new mothers after a vaginal birth and longer after a cesarean. When you have been given the OK from your doctor and have no significant bleeding, you are ready to do yoga again.