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Practicing Yoga During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are usually more interested in being healthy than other people, because they care about the little ones they carry inside. Eating healthy foods and even exercising a little are highly recommended during pregnancy, especially since stress can be a negative factor during this trying time. Yoga can be a great option for pregnant women, as well as for other people. However, the type of yoga recommended for pregnant women is restorative yoga that involves the use of pillows and other props to help attain specific postures. Always practice yoga with a professional trainer, as pregnancy can be endangered by certain unsafe positions.

Always let your trainer know about your condition. Do not enter a yoga session without making the instructor aware of the fact that you are pregnant. When you practice yoga at home, you need to keep in mind that trimesters influence what kind of exercises you can try. For instance, during the first one, the body starts to produce relaxin, a hormone that makes your ligaments softer. This means that you can attain some overstretching yoga postures, but never go over the top.

Twisting your belly is never recommended during pregnancy, so avoid any yoga poses that involve this type of movement. Too much jumping, or activities that hinder your normal breathing, must also be avoided. Back bends are not recommended, either. Bikram yoga is not suited for pregnant women, so do not go in that direction when you are carrying a child.

Standing postures are alright during the first trimester, because they help you achieve stronger leg muscles. This is important, since you will be carrying some extra weight for the next months. These postures are great for promoting the health of your circulatory system.

The second trimester will allow you more freedom, especially since you will be feeling more energetic. The extended triangle, the half moon and the warrior poses can be practiced during this time. Keep in mind to support yourself when performing them.

Any compression to the belly must be avoided during the last trimester. Yoga is not very easy to practice as your pregnancy is closing to an end. Listen to your body, and avoid any extreme positions, as they may hurt you and your baby.

Your doctor is the only one that can decide what you can do and what you cannot do. If you practice yoga with a trainer, let them known about your doctor’s decisions, as well.