Heart of the Week: Prenatal Yoga Flow
It’s a funny thing, every pregnancy I’ve had has been remarkably different from each other. While I was Kai at 25/26 years old, I was vibrant, full of energy, didn't show for awhile and hardly had aches or pains until the third trimester. I loved doing power yoga and was practicing right up til the week I went into labor. With Leo, I was way more mellow and often preferred hiking and walking. This pregnancy has been a whole new level. I was achy WAY sooner and the pains I experienced in my third trimester with Kai and Leo I experienced within the first few months. Now, in my third trimester, all I want to do is walk and stretch.
These prenatal yoga poses have been my favorite and are fine for ALL trimesters. I’ve found it helps to bring ease to your body and offers the space to connect with the little being inside of you. Savor it.
While flowing, remember to connect to your babe. Use both hands on your womb and repeat much you love, appreciate, and can't wait to meet him or her. Connect to their little spirit; maybe you feel the little kicks, hiccups, or movement. You can go through these poses once or several times, depending on how you're feeling and how much time you have.
Benefits of Prenatal Yoga:
Focus your breath and mind in preparation for birth
Work pelvic floor muscle
Strengthens your abdominal muscles essential for a strong growing belly and support for babe
Alleviates pressure off lower back (so necessary!)
Soothes your nervous system
Connects you to baby in a sacred space
Tips for an easy + comfortable prenatal flow:
Sign up for a class with other mamas-to-be and really get a sense of sisterhood and community
Enjoy a solo sesh in the comforts of your home -- create a welcoming space with candles, palo santo or sweet grass, aromatherapy, and comfortable clothes or maybe even no clothes
Block out all other distractions and take the time to connect with your body and with baby
Listen to your body -- if a pose is uncomfortable then don't do it
This is what has been working for me. If it works for you, amazing! I love sharing with my Philosophie tribe. If it doesn’t, that’s okay too! You can always enjoy a Philosophie superfood smoothie. I know we can all get behind that!
And for those who want to kick it up a notch...
For all the mamas out there, how did you get moving during pregnancy? Share with me on Facebook or in the comments below!
