Certainly, yoga is a very beneficial exercise program for pregnant women.  A good yoga routine can help you breathe and relax, and this in turn aids in the physical, mental and emotional demands of pregnancy, labor, birth and motherhood.  Yoga can calm both the mind and body, which provides physical and emotional relief from stress and anxiety.  Taking a prenatal yoga class is also a great way to meet other expectant mothers, which can build a strong support group for you.

Yoga is a gentle art that originated in India.  By its very nature, it is extremely adaptable.  That is why it makes such a great prenatal workout option.  Because a woman’s body is continually changing, exercises during pregnancy must be carefully monitored and adapted.  A prenatal yoga class will gear instruction to meet these needs.  If you choose to attend a regular yoga workout, be sure to inform your instructor that you are pregnant, and which trimester you are in, and then follow their guidance.

It is always best to check with your doctor before starting any kind of exercise program.  Pregnancy and exercise can coexist quite nicely, but you need to remember there are simply some things that are not safe for pregnant women.  If you are practicing yoga, you will want to stay away from the asanas that have you lying on your back, after your first trimester.  They can reduce the amount of blood flowing to the uterus.  You will also want to stay away from poses that might stretch your muscles too much,especially your abdominal muscles. During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin is more prevalent.  It allows the uterus to expand, and softens connective tissue.  This means, if stretching is too strenuous, you are at greater risk for strains, pulls and other injuries.  Back bends, headstands, handstands, the Camel and Upward Bow, are all poses you want to avoid during your pregnancy.

From your second trimester on, your center of gravity will begin shifting.  So if you do standing poses opt to use props, such as a chair or the wall.  Also, stay away from Bikram, or ‘hot’ yoga.  Research has shown that workingout in an overheated room can endanger a growing fetus.  Generally, caution needs to be taken with all exercises during pregnancy, but a competent yoga instructor will know how to help you do that.  One of the main rules of thumb you will want to follow is simply to listen to your own body.  If you feel discomfort, you need to stop.  You may need to have poses modified as your body changes, but a good instructor already knows this.  They will help you customize your workout routine so it suits your stage of pregnancy, and your personal needs.

Yoga for pregnant women is not only safe, but it holds a wealth of benefits, as well.   Not only can pregnant women keep their bodies toned and in good physical shape, but yoga can help them relax, breathe, and relieve tension.