YogaMamma gives an overview about yoga and how and why it is great to practice while expecting and postnatally.
YogaMamma
I know some women can’t get to a class so wanted to write an accessible book for all women who would like to give it a go, but are not sure where to start. It’s also meant to be a useful resource for any woman who is already attending a class but wants to learn a little more about the philosophy.
Why is pregnancy an important and special time in a woman’s life?
Having a child is a massive deal and most women will experience pregnancy at some point – but it’s not until you’re expecting yourself that you begin to understand just what’s involved and the many changes that occur, not just physically, but emotionally too.
During a first pregnancy some women may worry how she will take to motherhood and although it is a time of great excitement it can also be stressful and worrying as she wants to be the best mother possible.
In what ways can you keep fit and healthy so your baby is unharmed?
Many women think that being pregnant means you should sit on the sofa for nine months and eat lots – but there are many disadvantages to this approach. Over the last few years the healthcare professionals are starting to realise how important it is for a woman to stay active. Generally women who have been active in their pregnancy are stronger and have shorter, easier labours and recover better post-natally. But it is important not to over-do it.
Your body works so hard during pregnancy so exercise should be gentle and supportive, rather than draining and too intense. Walking and swimming are wonderful examples – and of course yoga.
It’s important to listen to your body during pregnancy when you exercise and not to push it too hard – for example I wouldn’t advocate taking up running if you’re never even jogged in your life. If you join any classes make sure your teacher is qualified to teach pregnant women and if possible always go on recommendations.
What ways can you prepare mentally for your baby coming?
It is important to be realistic about the labour – but not in a negative way. It is a physical endurance test and you wouldn’t run a marathon without doing any training – it’s the same with birth. If you put some effort in during your pregnancy – and providing you’re fit and healthy and there are no complications such as a breech baby or a low lying placenta there is no reason why labour can’t be positive and empowering.
One of the reasons why some women have long, harrowing labours is the position of the baby – so during pregnancy be aware of this and work on getting the baby into the best position possible. Things such as yoga, swimming and walking will massively help this – as will being aware of your posture.
You need to be honest about what is going to happen during birth and I believe knowledge is power, so speak to other mums about birth, read as much as you can and do some classes, such as a pre-natal yoga class or an active birth class.
Why is yoga the answer to learning about your body and reacting to the changes?
It’s a time to honour your body and your baby and yoga allows this.
I teach many women who ‘find’ yoga for the first time in their lives during pregnancy – maybe because at this time you are naturally more intuitive.
Yoga is a complete exercise not just a series of physical stretches – it acknowledges the physical changes a woman’s body is going through, but also her mental and emotional state. It gives the woman time to rest and reflect on what is happening to her body – and to her baby.
How can the book help first timers?
Some yoga books can be hard going to read but I wanted to write something that is easy-to-read and full of my own insights – and from some of the women I’ve taught over the years.
I can write from the heart because yoga helped me with the birth of my son, and especially during my labour with him. I’m expecting again and feel amazing and I put that down to all the yoga I’ve done. I want women to know how beneficial it can be.
You are the author of From Bump to Baby, so what can you tell us about this book?
I wrote From Bump to Baby in 2012 as since I began teaching I’ve heard so many positive stories about birth and I wanted to share them. It’s a collection of birth stories from some of the many women I’ve taught over the years, littered with lots of advice and help from healthcare professionals and people who work in the holistic field.
The focus of the book isn’t all about ‘natural’ deliveries, I’ve included women that have had sections and interventions but still had a ‘good’ experience because they had taken control of their birth and were happy with the way it went. I want women to feel empowered after reading the book and to know there is another way.
Why can yoga sometimes be overlooked for pregnant women?
I think that perception is changing and in the seven years I’ve been teaching I’ve seen a steady increase in clients. However, I still think some people have the image that you have to be super flexible in order to do it or that you’ll be in a room of hippies chanting. The key is to find the right class for you. Chat to the teacher and get a feel for the kind of approach they take and if the first one doesn’t suit find one that does.
What is next for you?
I’m due to have a baby in a few weeks so will hopefully be practicing what I preach for that birth! Once my daughter is born I’m moving house and there will be a new yoga room in the garden which I’m very excited about teaching in.
Yoga Mamma (Endeavour Press) by Natasha Harding is £1.99 (e-book only)