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Pregnant Women, Get A Leg Up On Yoga

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 14, 2007

Pregnancy is one of the most joyous times in a woman's life. Add prenatal yoga to the mix, and the experience can become even more intense.

Breath work weaved into stretching and meditation makes yoga the perfect preparation for childbirth. Stretching and strengthening muscles prepare for the hard work of labor. Yoga offers a wonderful way for moms-to-be to connect with their unborn child.

"Your intuition is stronger during pregnancy than at any other time in your life. Be guided by your comfort while practicing," says Lisa Wilson, instructor at Yogani Studios in South Tampa.

Leah Carden, 34, is expecting her second baby April 1. Here she uses a block near the front of her mat to modify this pose.

EKA PADA RAJAKAPOTASANA (ONE-LEGGED KING PIGEON POSE)

This pose is helpful if you have sciatica because it stretches and releases tension in the deep muscles of the butt.

1. Sit on a mat, bending your right leg in front of you and slide your left leg back, straightening the knee. Place your hands on the mat at your side with your arms straight and your body erect.

2. Exhale and bend forward, placing your forearms on the blocks and bringing your chest over your right leg for a few breaths. If you can, rest your head on the blocks, which allow room for your belly.

This pose is not recommended if you have a knee injury.

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