Yoga is to 2011 what aerobics was to the 1980’s (thankfully without the pre-requisite g-string leotards and fluoro leg warmers!). Celebrities are quick to attribute their post baby bodies to maintaining a yoga practise during and after pregnancy. Many women, whether pregnant, mothers of small babies or who are looking to regain some time for calm in the chaotic world of motherhood, choose yoga for its attention to the mind/body/spirit connection.

 

 

Yoga is an ideal gentle exercise to practise during pregnancy. Poses specific for pregnancy can aid in relieving fatigue, release tension and promote strength and flexibility. Anyone who has experienced digestive upsets during pregnancy will know how hideous it can be! This is where yoga really comes into its own – helping to ease digestion issues and regulate the nervous and respiratory system. A yoga practise during pregnancy is also an incredibly powerful tool in helping prepare mentally for an active birth. Clearing your mind of the ‘noise’ of life and tuning into your body is a skill that comes very handy when you hit the challenging aspects of labour. Many women use yoga postures instinctively when giving birth. There are some poses unsuitable for pregnant women, so be sure to find a qualified instructor who will gently guide you through the correct poses.

 

 

The postnatal period is one of immense change for new mothers. Continuing or beginning a postnatal yoga class can provide a safe and supportive sanctuary away from the often isolated day to day routine of mothering a newborn. Most yoga schools or YMCA programs offer ‘Mums and Bubs' classes, where babies are welcome and often used as part of the practise! 

The first few months with a newborn can often be incredibly exhausting, and the thought of taking up an exercise regime is probably the last thing on your mind, but, as is the case with simply getting outdoors and walking with the baby in a sling or pram, the benefits of yoga are far reaching and positive. Recover strength and vitality, relieve back pain, ease joint pain, re-tone the pelvic floor muscles and abdominals; these are just some of the physical benefits of yoga. Spiritually, simple breathing exercises help to ease anxiety, fatigue and restore hormonal balance.

Far from being a competitive environment, postnatal yoga classes emphasise the need for relaxation in the physical and emotional recovery after birth. As with pre-natal yoga, some postures are not suitable for practise in the initial recovery period after giving birth, so a qualified yoga instructor is advised.

 

 

 

Children are little yogi’s by nature and derive enormous benefits from yoga. Whether watching and imitating Mama, or taking part in a class for children, kids develop flexibility, coordination, strength and body awareness. Yoga can provide an effective tool for calming down a wound up child or leading into a relaxing pre-bed routine. Childrens yoga incorporates fun into the practise, so they will be encouraged to hiss when doing Cobra pose, or meow as they stretch into Cat. Encouraging a love for yoga when your child is young, and continuing a practise of your own, creates an opportunity to maintain a healthy respect for our bodies; all the more important as your child reaches their teen/young adult years.

 

Ready to “Om” your way to health and vitality? www.findyoga.com.au offers listings of yoga school/teachers Australia wide.