Recently I have received a lot of enquiries for pre-natal yoga. They are usually young moms-to-be who want to lessen their back pain and discomfort during pregnancy. I usually check with their flexibility and energy condition in a one-hour introductory session. Quite a few of them signed up for private or semi-private pre-natal yoga classes.
The process of pregnancy and labor requires a tremendous amount of energy within a short period of time. It is very helpful to practice the recommended meridian exercises and energy yoga to accumulate vital energy. It is also important to maintain a healthy body, mind and spirit in preparation for the challenge of labor. A healthy body can help to reduce pain during labor and decrease the chance of lasting physical effects caused by childbirth.
The exercises are in sets suitable for pregnant women in first, second and last trimester with increasing activities and different focuses. It is very important for the mother to be in touch with their body’s natural rhythms. Relaxing is key in first trimester. During the second trimester, the exercises condition the body to be strong during the remaining months of pregnancy and labor. During the last trimester, anxiety can increase due to the anticipation of the childbirth. Listening to peaceful music and doing other activities to relax the mind are good. With the increase weight gain during this trimester, the mothers will feel more fatigued. The exercises will help them to be more active and more relaxed through breathing techique.
I am actually very excited to work with mother-to-be. The vital life energy radiating from both the baby and the mother is so pure and powerful!
