Prenatal yoga 'benefits body and mind'

11 Feb 2008

Expectant mothers can gain additional benefits from yoga during pregnancy as it can help relieve back strain and ease nausea, according to experts.

Known for improving quality of sleep, strengthening muscles and joints and increasing flexibility, yoga is a low impact form of exercise, ideal for helping mums-to-be keep in shape during pregnancy.

Prenatal yoga classes can offer expert guidance on postures that should be avoided and specific movements that benefit pregnant women.

Breathing techniques practiced in prenatal yoga can also help new mums prepare for the birthing process, reducing stress and labour anxieties.

Commenting on the benefits of prenatal yoga, Midwife Manijeh Nedas said: "In my experience, I believe that yoga plays a very important role in pregnancy. Generally, pregnant mums who do yoga exercises appear healthier, both in mind and body.

"Their bodies are more flexible, which enables them to adapt to various positions when in labour and the ligaments are more elastic, which in turn can help to reduce labour pain."

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