Yoga Poses That Are Safe for Pregnancy

If you have recently found out that you are pregnant, you might be wondering what kind of working out you should be doing. While there is no limit placed on activity early in pregnancy for those without health concerns, you might be too tired, or feel too sick to do much more than gentle exercise. Later in your pregnancy, you will likely be too uncomfortable for intense workouts of any kind.

Yoga is one of the best work out options available for pregnant women, and it can be customised to your personal needs and the allowances that need to be made for your body during this time of stress and growth. Yoga can offer you the best chance of peaceful and effective workouts during your pregnancy.

Seated Side Bend: This gentle and easy position asks you to sit on the floor with your legs crossed. Take a deep breath and lean gently to the side, stretching the opposite arm over your head. Hold this pose for about 15 seconds and return to the centre. Take a deep breath and switch to the other side. Repeat for at least three repetitions. This is a great pose for back and hip pain.

Yoga Squat With Block: This post is especially helpful in the later stages of pregnancy as your body starts to produce the hormone relaxin, making hips and lower back sore and also increasing flexibility. Take a seat on the yoga block and plant feet apart slightly wider than the hips. Use the elbows in prayer pose to push the knees open gently.

Wide-Knee Child’s Pose: This pose is great at any stage of your pregnancy, and it can help to take the pressure off your lower back and to soothe tired hip flexors. Kneel on the floor with your knees apart. Sit back onto your heels and then lay forward with your forehead on the floor and your arms above your head. Be careful to reach only as far as is comfortable for a stretch. Breathe deeply and relax into the floor. Your lower back with thank you and baby will probably like the extra room as well!

Legs Up the Wall Pose: This simple pose is perfect for those who are advanced in their pregnancy. Lie on your back near a wall. Elevate your feet and lean them against the wall. Scoot your bottom closer to the wall but be careful not to cause yourself discomfort. Your ankles and feet will appreciate being above your head and your back will be able to relax into the floor. Hold for about half a minute before rolling gently to the side to get up.

These gentle poses will help with the discomforts of pregnancy and will also help to alleviate stress. You will feel energised and connected with yourself, and your body and your lower back will thank you as well!