First things first! Is Yoga safe for pregnant women?

Absolutely! Yoga is a safe and beneficial practice for Indian women of all ages and backgrounds. Here’s why:

• Rich Tradition: Yoga originated in India and has been practised for centuries. It’s a holistic approach to well-being that considers the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of health.
• Adaptable Practice: There are many styles of yoga, from gentle and restorative to more vigorous. You can find a practice that suits your fitness level and goals.
• Numerous Benefits: Yoga offers a wide range of benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, and better sleep. It can also help manage chronic conditions like back pain and anxiety.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Listen to Your Body: As with any exercise, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid poses that cause pain. Don’t hesitate to modify poses or take breaks as needed.
• Find a Qualified Instructor: A good instructor can guide you safely and effectively, especially if you’re new to yoga. Look for someone certified by a reputable organization.
• Respectful Environment: Most yoga studios in India strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Yoga is a widely practised form of exercise in India, and there are many resources available for pregnant women. Here’s a breakdown to help you get started:

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga:

• Improved flexibility and strength
• Reduced back pain and discomfort
• Increased relaxation and stress management
• Better sleep
• Easier delivery (possible)

Finding Prenatal Yoga Classes:

• Studios: Many yoga studios in India offer classes specifically designed for pregnant women. Look for studios with certified prenatal yoga instructors.
• Online Classes: Several online platforms offer prenatal yoga classes. Ensure the instructor is qualified and the program caters to your trimester.
• Hospitals and Birthing Centers: Some hospitals and birthing centres in India may offer prenatal yoga classes as part of their childbirth education programs.

Safety Precautions:

• Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially during pregnancy.
• Inform your yoga instructor about your trimester and any health concerns.
• Listen to your body and avoid poses that feel uncomfortable or cause pain.
• Modify poses as needed to accommodate your changing body.

Resources:

• The Art of Living offers gentle yoga poses and breathing exercises specifically designed for pregnant women https://www.artofliving.org/us-en/yoga/benefits/yoga-for-pregnant-women.
• Isha Foundation’s Isha Thaimai program provides a comprehensive approach to prenatal yoga, incorporating physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation https://isha.sadhguru.org/uk/en/yoga-meditation/additional-programs/yoga-for-pregnant-women.
• Vikaspedia provides a sample yoga routine for different trimesters of pregnancy https://vikaspedia.in/health/ayush/yoga-1.

Remember, it’s important to find a program that suits your fitness level and preferences. Happy practising! Happy Yoga Day!