PREGNANCY YOGA

Yoga is an ancient and holistic practice of self care and spiritual development to harmonise body, heart and mind. Pregnancy is a normal and natural part of a woman’s life cycle and a time of transition, when all manner of new sensations and experiences may arise. Yoga during pregnancy will help you to maintain your health and wellbeing and also bring peace and freedom to the body, heart and mind of both you and your baby. Pregnancy Yoga classes are ideal as they allow you to practice both on a physical and spiritual level, whilst at the same time develop confidence and self awareness. It’s the perfect way to nurture yourself during pregnancy without strain.

Techniques such as breath awareness, relaxation techniques, visualisations and meditation are used alongside postures and movement to help you become more aware of yourself and to help ease the birth of your baby. This is an excellent preparation for labour which requires a certain flexibility of the body as well as mind. Regular sessions will help you stay relaxed, improve your sleep, boost energy, reduce aches, give you time to bond with your baby ( or babies!) and meet other mums to be.

“The emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of pregnancy are vitally important and should not be neglected. The potential for self empowerment, change, healing and transformation which is so great during these months, needs to be positively enhanced and encouraged”
(Janet Balaskas-Preparing for Birth with Yoga)

WHAT TO BRING

- Cushions/pillows (to help to support and keep you comfortable)
- Yoga mat if you have one (a few are available subject to availability)
- Water/soft drink to keep you hydrated during class.

ADVICE FOR LADIES TAKING PREGNANCY YOGA CLASSES

- - - Maintain an adequate fluid intake and eat something light beforehand e.g.piece of fruit, toast.
    - Stop practicing yoga if you feel light headed, dizzy or fatigued. Sit or lie down and practice simple relaxed breathing.
    - If you already practice yoga please remember this is a time to slow down in your practice and be sensitive to the changes within your body.
    - Every pregnancy is unique so it’s important to listen to your body – don’t do anything which doesn’t feel right. Please feel free to come out of posture at any time if you are not comfortable.
    - Avoid jumping into and out of postures as this puts too much stress on the cervix, joints and ligaments.
    - Avoid standing still for long periods of time (move your legs regularly during standing) as this can cause varicose veins or you may feel faint or nauseous. Avoid holding postures statically for any longer than is comfortable
    - Be aware of over-stretching – ligaments and tendons soften in pregnancy and if over-stretched can cause problems in later life.
    - Cease lying on your back from around 30 weeks (this can cause a drop in blood pressure which can lead to nausea, dizziness). Lie on your left hand side to allow better blood flow to you and your baby.
    - And finally, please let me know of any physical or pregnancy related problems that may arise from week to week.

YOGA IN PREGNANCY CLASS TIMES

ZOOM CLASS – WEDNESDAYS 18.00-19.00 ( book single sessions or 6 sessions to be taken over 8 weeks.)

Single Session £11.00

6 week pregnancy Yoga Sessions £55.00

These classes are currently running on Zoom until further notice.
Post-COVID we hope to resume these classes at: The Nottingham Emmanuel School, Gresham Park Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7YF

* Paid time off work for pregnancy yoga classes

Women in full-time employment are entitled to paid time off work to attend yoga classes, which are covered by the category ‘antenatal appointments and relaxation and parent craft classes’. Women are encouraged to exercise their right to this time off work.