The postnatal period is a very special and delicate time for mother and baby. Mummy and Me yoga classes provide a supportive environment where the mother can reconnect with herself physically, mentally and emotionally while bonding with her baby though the practice of yoga. Babies love watching mum move along with them, and also enjoy the infant engagement part of the class where we sing nursery rhymes and stimulate them with some gentle movement.
When can you practice? Speak to your GP first and if they say it’s ok, then come to a class six weeks after the birth of your baby. If you had a cesarean section, then it’s best to wait at least 12 weeks. Always listen to your body and rest when you need.
Mummy and Me classes are very sociable and allow the new mother to emerge from the potentially isolating and confusing stage of early parenthood. You’ll get to meet other new mums and share your joys as well as your frustrations. Postnatal yoga uses movement, balancing, strengthening and restorative poses that allow your body and mind to recover from the pregnancy and birth.
the physical, mental + emotional benefits of mummy + me
Physical: a new mother needs to rebuild strength in her back, pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. Muscles and ligaments are soft because the relaxin (childbirth hormone) softens the ligaments in the pelvis to allow the body to make space for the baby to grow. We stretch some parts of the body like the neck and shoulders that become very tight due to the posture we assume when feeding our babies.
Mental: postnatal classes help keep your mind focused and present in the moment by using the breath. Your brain releases endorphins when moving, which can rejuvenate your mind and give you more energy – a particular challenge for new mums who have to cope with lack of sleep.
Emotional: it helps to meet new mothers, it’s reassuring to talk to other mothers that are going through the same experience that you are and the class provides a safe environment where you can discuss any worries or insecurities. You are not alone!
Lisa is passionate about active birth, loves to support pregnant women with positive thoughts and encourages them to embrace this special time in their lives by understanding more fully the challenging process of the birth and postnatal period. Her classes are fun, friendly and relaxed. You can breastfeed, bottle feed or change nappies and walk around the room if you need to. She teaches Mummy and Me in Ealing on Thursdays from 11.00am – 12.15pm.
