3 simple "Do's" & "Don'ts" in Hot Yoga after pregnancy.

     Shortly after pregnancy it’s not uncommon for new moms to want to get back into shape right away.  Especially if you were an active woman before you got pregnant with your beautiful baby.  For some new moms this can sometimes create all sorts of pressure and anxiety.  You may start to wonder what exercise will be right for you and you start to wonder how you will make time.  If you’re breast feeding your baby you may find it a bit difficult to get a break for even five minutes.  But don’t worry, take a deep breath and know that everything will be alright.

     In our case, Faidre has been breast feeding our little girl and our plan is to pump her milk into bottles so that I can help out with the feeding.  Once we get our little baby into a routine Faidre will be able to take some time to return to her yoga practice.  In the meantime, we have started walking around the neighborhood to help Faidre slowly make her way back.  So in essence it may take a little time, but we’ll get there and so will you.

     Here are three simple “Do’s & Don’ts” in yoga after pregnancy once you check in with your doctor and you’re given the ok to return to your exercise.

*Do’s

     1. Come back into yoga slowly.  Take your time and remember you’re not in a race.  After nine months of being pregnant, your joints and ligaments may still be loose.  Avoid injury by taking your time.  Patience mom….

     2. Be conscious of your belly especially if you had a cesarean.  Talk with your yoga teacher about modifications if you need them.  Your road to recovery requires for you to take control and educate yourself through the process.  It will only make you stronger.

     3. Practice regularly, five times per week. A regular practice will tone your muscles and get your body in shape in no time.  And I’m adding another “Do” here, stay hydrated.  This will help with soreness and it will also help your muscles stretch better and safer.

Don’ts

1.      As mentioned before, get clearance from your doctor before you return.

2.      Be patient upon your return and don’t overdo it.  Sometimes we want to get back to things right away and we end up getting discouraged when we realize it’s going to take some time.  Don’t lose focus and remember yoga is not just about exercise, it’s also about your mindset.  It’s about finding balance.

3.      You know your body better than anyone.  Listen to it as you go through your practice.  When you need to back off, please do.  Take breaks when you need them, again it’s not a race.  “Patience Danielson!”  Thought I’d throw that in there….

There you go moms.  Easy stuff!  Congratulations to you and best wishes to you and your new born.  God Bless.  Adios Marco