We all know that yoga is a wonderful tool for fitness, flexibility, and stress relief—but it becomes even more powerful during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga is good for you and good for your baby. In fact, the benefits of prenatal yoga are so strong that they may overpower any desire to stay on the couch and kick your feet up.

Relieve tension and pain: Pregnancy is no walk in the park. Many women experience low back pain and other aches and pains. Prenatal yoga can help stretch the muscles and tissues associated with the back, hips, and hamstrings, thereby helping to reduce aches and pains.

Practice deep breathing: Deep breathing helps calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. This can result in better sleep, improved digestion, lower blood pressure, and overall reduced stress. This is good for both mother and baby—and may even help with labor.

Develop stamina and strength: As your baby grows and your body changes, you will need the strength and energy to carry the extra weight. Regular yoga practice helps build muscular strength and endurance.

Improve balance: Your growing belly can compromise your sense of balance. Yoga poses can help you fine-tune your balance to navigate these changes.

Improve circulation: Yoga can promote circulation of blood and oxygen through the body. This helps reduce the swelling and inflammation that is so common during pregnancy.

Improve emotional wellbeing: Prenatal yoga, like all yoga, can help relieve stress. It also provides an opportunity to connect with other expecting moms and build community. This support is vital for wellbeing.

Connect with baby: Prenatal yoga provides an opportunity to slow down and connect deeply with your body and your baby. By working with the breath and movement, you develop a deeper awareness of what is happening in your body.

Prepare for labor: Practicing conscious breathing during prenatal yoga can help develop breathing skills that you can use in the delivery room. What’s more, during yoga practice, you’re familiarizing yourself with and toning the muscles of the pelvic floor, which you will need during labor.

Ready to try prenatal yoga?
Paige Redman is teaching a 4-week session on Mondays at noon, starting October 21, 2013
Members $60/Non-members $70