I was so lucky to have yoga throughout both of my pregnancies. In fact, I actually finished my 200HR yoga certification during the my first pregnancy. It was such a blessing to be able to do yoga pregnant and feel that inner connection with my baby through yoga.
I have taught a few prenatal yoga classes and I have a little list of the things I feel most important about when it comes to prenatal yoga.
Do listen to your own body. Prenatal yoga is not black and white. What you can/cannot do depends on your body, experience, and mind. The main thing is that you are in-tune to the needs of your body and you follow its ques.
Be aware of hyper-flexability while pregnant. During pregnancy our bodies produce a hormone called Relaxin that allows your muscles and ligaments to relax to prepare the body for birth. It is important to be aware of the excess of relaxin in your body while practicing yoga pregnant because it can cause over stretching and ultimately pulls and tears in the muscles.
Inversions are safe.. if you have been practicing them BEFORE you got pregnant. This one is highly debated.. but in my opinion, you're good as long as you are 100% stable. DISCLAIMER: My midwife has seen several women whose babies have become breach when their mothers spend substantial amount of time upside down! haha
MODIFICATION, MODIFICATION, MODIFICATION. Nearly every pose can be modified to fit your situation in your pregnancy. Do some research and find out how to modify poses so you can still practice yoga.
Let the mind/body connection soar. Pregnancy is always such a special time. I feel especially connected to my inner body. I love during pregnancy to sit with my hand on my belly and just feel my belly fall and rise with every breath. What a blessing to carry another life and be intentional with my own life.
Don't be too worried about how much you can do while pregnant, just allow the connection between your baby and you to rise as you breathe intentionally and send positive love to your child.
