Thursday, February 14, 2008

Pregnancy Yoga

Pregnancy Yoga

Pregnancy yoga is one of the best exercises Yoga can help you do more than just prepare your body for the strenuous labor and delivery process it can help you prepare your mind Yoga is a terrific way to get to know your body and to improve your posture which is particularly important as your pregnant body begins to feel like it belongs to someone else Yoga opens the chest and pelvis improves circulation and reduces the body tension that may be leading to that run down tired feeling so many pregnant women suffer from More importantly yoga can help you with your breathing Proper breathing reenergizes the body relieves tension and helps ensure your baby gets the nutrients and oxygen he needs for proper development Some women have even reported that pregnancy yoga has helped them better manage the symptoms of Morning Sickness Doing yoga is all about comfort and the release All you need for a good pregnancy yoga workout is comfortable clothes and a mat The mat acts as padding between you and the floor and it prevents your hands and feet from slipping Other optional items you may want are a blanket blocks or a strap The blanket can be used as additional padding and to help you get into certain poses while still remaining comfortable It is best to use a black that is not slippery such as a wool or thermal blanket The blocks and strap are used to deepen stretches and bridge gaps that may occur because your pregnancy has limited your flexibility

1. Avoid overexertion
2. Avoid over stretching the abdomen
3. During the second and third semester avoid doing exercises that require you lay flat on your back as this can cut off circulation to the uterus
4. Use a nonskid mat Pregnant women tend to experience balance problems and should take extra precaution not to get off balance while doing the poses
5. Avoid poses that put pressure on the abdomen
6. Avoid pushing yourself to get into difficult poses

Exercise during pregnancy is very important For the most part you should be able to continue your exercise regimen Walking swimming and biking are considered extremely safe to continue until your birth If you havent been exercising ask your care provider for exercise tips

Pregnant women should avoid high impact exercises especially later in their pregnancy You will also want to make sure you drink plenty of water wear layers of clothing to prevent overheating and never exercise to the point of exhaustion If you get lightheaded or short of breath you should stop exercising immediately If you notice contractions chest pain vaginal bleeding nauseua or vomiting you should contact your care provider

You may want to consider taking a pregnancy yoga class Pregnancy yoga helps keep you healthy during your pregnancy while preparing your body for childbirth

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