Connecting emotionally and physically with your baby is a unique experience with every individual child. Whether this is your first baby (welcome to motherhood!) or you’re already an experienced mom, Mommy and Me Postnatal Yoga is a fun way to support both mom and baby through a challenging and beautiful time on your journey together.
Benefits for Mom
• It helps calm new parent nerves
Having a safe place to get out of the house, and attend a class taught by a trained instructor, gives you an opportunity to channel any nervous energy you may have. All types of yoga use focused stretches and mindful breathing exercises which has been shown to reduce overall stress and anxiety.
• Yoga is the gentle exercise that your body needs most
After carrying a baby for nine months and giving birth, your body needs to adjust, and heal from the incredible work it has done! The movements and focused breathing used in Postpartum Yoga classes are chosen specifically to aid in childbirth recovery by targeting the pelvic floor and core muscles. The poses and breathing also open and support the arms, shoulders, and chest which are muscles you rely on immensely during your first few months with your baby.
• Mommy and Me Yoga introduces you to other new moms
Having a new baby can be incredibly isolating. Even if you have loved ones, and plenty of support, having connections who are going through the same experiences you are can be very comforting. Mommy and Me Yoga class provides a safe and physically distanced, but socially connected environment for new parents to support one another.
It is a beautiful way for you and your baby to bond
Yoga is a fun, healthy, and playful activity you can enjoy together. At the Nurture Place, our class is outside, where you and your baby can also enjoy the fresh air and the beauty and sounds of nature.
Benefits for Baby
• Helps develop motor and sensory skills
Baby will enjoy simple stretches and poses that can help encourage your baby to develop self and environmental awareness.
• Aids in digestion
Some yoga poses have been shown to alleviate constipation, gas pains, and colic.
• Can promote better sleep
Some parents have reported that their babies sleep better after attending baby yoga classes. While it isn’t guaranteed, there is anecdotal evidence to support improved sleep and lower cortisol levels for both parents and babies after attending a Postnatal Yoga session.
Know Before You Go
• Get your doctors’ OK
Make sure your doctor and your child’s pediatrician both give clearance before starting any new exercise routine.
• Protect your tummy
If you’re recovering from diastasis recti, or other serious injuries make sure to alert your instructor at the beginning of class so he or she can help you prevent any further injuries.
• Stretch gently
Postpartum, your body will continue to release hormones that loosen your ligaments. Stretch gently to prevent any injuries.
• Don’t overdo it
Your body is “new to you” after having accomplished an incredible amount of work. If any move feels uncomfortable, or feels like too much, skip it. Do what feels right for you.
• Baby comes first!
This is not just a baby friendly class. It is a baby centered class. If you need to stop to feed, change a diaper, or comfort. That is not only perfectly fine, but it is encouraged. It is absolutely no problem if your baby cries, or fusses. Take care of your little one, so you can take care of yourself.
The Nurture Place offers regular Parent and Baby Yoga sessions. The class is thoughtfully designed for all levels and sensitive to postpartum healing and baby’s needs. Caregivers and their babies are welcome! Class is held outdoors near downtown Winter Garden.
Click HERE for more information.
Comments