The Benefits of Prenatal Yoga Poses
What
are the benefits of prenatal yoga poses? Yoga, which
means
union of mind and body, makes people look within themselves and
understand the body. 
A
pregnant woman who doesn't understand the process of labor will be
tense and frightened, which in turn causes pain. The philosophy behind
yoga is that by daily practice, you will become more centered and
relieved from stress and be able to tone the body at the same time.
Yoga
consists of different poses, called asanas, that should be held steady
with controlled breathing. The breathing techniques at the heart of
yoga are called pranayamas.
They are
natural ways
to keep your body active and flexible while minimizing the everyday
pregnancy woes. It can also ensure a smooth birthing by relieving
tension and by expanding the pelvis.
Posture
is
also improved and can ease back problems, a common pregnancy complaint.
Fluid retention is decreased while blood circulation is improved.
The
benefits continue throughout the postpartum period as well. Postnatal
yoga, which can be started about six weeks after the
birth, strengthens
abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor. It kick-starts your journey
back to your pre-pregnancy figure.
If
you are not
familiar with yoga, take a class in your area to learn the different
poses. If no classes are available in your area, then
there are many excellent prenatal yoga dvds available.
As
with all exercise during pregnancy, do everything in moderation. Any of
the yoga poses that feel uncomfortable
should be omitted.
In
addition, the pregnancy hormone relaxin is excreted which allows the
ligaments to stretch. Care must be taken not to overstretch the
ligaments while holding each of the prenatal yoga poses. No pain or
nausea should be felt at any time. If this occurs, take a break and
contact your care provider.