When you have a baby, your body undergoes a lot of changes. It’s not easy to bounce back – mentally or physically, but there are some things you can do to help aid the process.
One way to help get you back to your old self after birth is to take up yoga. Postpartum yoga has loads of benefits. Certain classes (or online tutorials) involve baby too, meaning it’s not just you that benefits.
Before you start, you’ll need to do a little research about what’s best for your ability level. You’ll need to invest in some equipment. Clothes that stretch are essential, and you mig
ht need some additional support on your mid-section if your muscles haven’t started to heal.
You’ll also need to invest in a yoga mat. I’ve been eyeing up some beautiful mats from Pixels. You can get vibrant designs in bright colours, and even art prints and photos. Having a beautiful yoga mat can really spur you on your yoga journey.
5 Benefits of Postpartum Yoga
The benefits of yoga are numerous and positively impact many people. Yoga for a new mum has plenty of benefits and some may even surprise you!
Below are some of the benefits of postpartum yoga. These will give new mums a reason to roll out their yoga mat and get into position.
1. Yoga can help with the physical changes after birth
When a woman is carrying a child, it can affect her core muscles. Her tummy muscles can part and cause discomfort for a few months after giving birth. Certain yoga poses can encourage core strength and aid muscular recovery.
2. Yoga can be a social event
Mum’s can sometimes lose their sense of self. Suddenly they’re responsible for another person’s needs and their own hobbies and pastimes go out the window. Joining a yoga class for mothers can give you chance to meet other people who know exactly how you feel. Not only are you doing something for yourself, you might make some new and lasting friendships.
3. It can make you feel energised, even after very little sleep!
Sleepless nights are a given when it comes to parenthood. Even if you’re lucky enough to have a baby that sleeps well, some disturbed nights are always on the horizon. Taking good care of yourself and exercising regularly can make you feel energised – even when you’d normally be feeling tired. Yoga has a reputation for improving energy levels and lifting your general mood.
4. Mother and baby yoga can be a great bonding exercise
Some postpartum yoga classes invite baby along too! Mother and baby yoga classes teach easy positions you can do with your baby around. Including your baby gives you more opportunity to bond with your new addition. You might even be able to do some of the poses at home too, giving you another way to keep you and your little one entertained.
5. Yoga provides emotional benefits too
Regular yoga workouts can help release endorphins and make you feel more relaxed. Working out can help with feelings of positivity and can make you feel like you’ve reclaimed your body after pregnancy. Doing something for yourself, such as yoga, can help you feel like yourself again after putting all your energy into growing a tiny human!
As someone who has recently given birth, I think it’s important to make an effort to do things just for yourself. The benefits speak for themselves!