5 Reasons to Choose Prenatal Yoga Over “Regular” Yoga When You’re Pregnant

{"slug":"prenatal-yoga-benefits","recentPosts":[{"id":"cl8kb5f23jq1w0ciscs2h2bxw","slug":"benefits-of-yoga-for-pregnancy","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"What are the Benefits of Yoga for Pregnancy?","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga for Pregnancy is excellent for stress relief, pain relief, and preparation for labor. Read more to understand the benefits of Yoga for Pregnancy","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-27T14:42:36.767798+00:00","coverUrl":"kvvlqndsbow5dsckhw7i.jpg","content":{"text":"When you get pregnant, people come out of the woodworks with advice, remedies and old wives tales. Everyone’s got an opinion on how you should spend your pregnancy. But the one thing we know for sure is, yoga is great for mom and baby alike. If you’re curious about prenatal yoga, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down why this type of yoga is excellent for moms (and babies).\\nWhat is prenatal yoga?\\nPrenatal yoga was designed for women who are expecting. Rather than taking a regular class and having to worry about modifications or safety, this class is specifically designed for pregnancy. The practice can help women with common pregnancy aches and pains, ease hormonal and emotional stress and help women’s bodies prepare for birth and their postpartum journey. A regular yoga practice when pregnant has tons of amazing benefits!\\nBenefits of Prenatal yoga: \\nWe asked women who’ve done prenatal yoga while pregnant for their reviews, one said “ It’s excellent for stress relief, pain relief, and preparation for labor.” And they all said they’d recommend it to friends! \\nSo let's break down the benefits: \\nRelaxation : \\nPregnancy can be very stressful! But yoga will help you to relax physically, mentally and emotionally and create a safe, relaxing environment for birth. Prenatal helps you with coping and breath techniques for all stages of your pregnancy.\n\\nPreparation for birth : \\nFor first time moms, and even sometimes vets, labor can be scary. This practice will help you to learn birth techniques so you’re relaxed and ready to go!\n⁠\\nYoga can Help with Labor : \\nIn a 2015 study\\n, It was found that a regular yoga practice in the last 10-12 weeks of pregnancy can improve the mother's comfort during labor and help facilitate the labor process. The “yoga group” in this study on average was in labor two hours less than those who didn’t practice. Past your due date? Prenatal Yoga is also known to help induce labor\n⁠\\nCommunity : \\nYoga classes have always been known to help us build community but during pregnancy, it's so important to have a group of women who understand what you’re going through. Taking part in a prenatal class puts you in a group of women who get it. You’ll have a built in support system and maybe even first friends for your baby!\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Prenatal Yoga:\\nIs Yoga for Pregnancy safe?\\nYes. Yoga is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, you should always consult your doctor & make sure you’re practicing with a teacher who understands the prenatal experience and can keep you safe. Our teachers are experts in yoga and are ready to help you on your journey. If you’d like to check out our offerings, you can get started today with a two week free trial! \\nWhen during pregnancy can you practice yoga?\\nDuring your first trimester, you can stick to your regular practice with some modifications. \\nYour second trimester is a GREAT time to start prenatal yoga! At this point, you’ll be starting to officially come into your “pregnancy body” and you’ll need to be practicing poses more specific to prenatal. The second and third trimester are considered the “prep period” for your body to prepare for labor. So it's a great time to keep moving and stretching in your new skin as you make room for the baby to grow! \\nWhat yoga poses should you avoid doing? \\nFor the most part, yoga is considered safe during pregnancy. You really only need to focus on any poses that put pressure on your abdomen. You should avoid any and all twisting poses, backbends and inversions.. \\nYoga for Pregnancy Poses you can perform at Home :\\nIt’s important to stay active during your pregnancy for both mom and baby! You should try to get in some sort of movement daily for at least 30 minutes. You can stick to low impact workouts or walks but if you want to do some yoga at home, it’s a great way to end your day. Yoga while pregnant can help with pain, help you sleep better and fight tiredness and fatigue. \\nHere are some poses you can practice at home to keep you moving! And as a bonus, most of these poses will also help your body prepare for giving birth!\\n1. Bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana) :\\n\\nBaddha Konasana pose will help you open your hips, releasing any pain in your back. It can also help to reduce swelling\\nHow it helps with labor: Opening the hips will help you to stretch the muscles needed to open the birth canal.\\n2. Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana Bitilasana) :\\n\\nMarjaryasana Bitilasana pose release back and shoulder pain and also reduce pressure from the belly\\nHow it helps with labor: Back pain is a common occurrence during the birth process. This pose will help to keep your muscles limber and help to avoid muscle spasms and pain in your back during labor. \\n3. Yogi squat (Malasana) :\\n\\n\\nBeen sitting too long\\n? This is a great hip opener and will also release lower back pain. \\nHow it helps with labor: This pose will widen the pelvic floor making the birth easier,which may help to reduce injury during birth.\\nRemember, if you’re practicing at home, it’s always best to consult your doctor and make sure yoga is safe for your pregnancy.\\n\\nOther ways to practice self-care during pregnancy\\nBeing a mom is the hardest job in the world. And there are no days off. Starting with pregnancy, we feel out of control of our body, its growth and the way we feel. Remember to take time during this beautiful process to practice self-care so you can be present, happy and relaxed. \\nBook a prenatal massage :\n\n⁠⁠A prenatal massage is GREAT for mom and baby. It can help reduce stress and swelling without meds, help you to sleep and get your body ready for labor and delivery. \n⁠ \\nTake a bath :\n⁠\n⁠Taking a warm bath while pregnant can also help to reduce stress and lower your blood pressure. It’s a great way to relax and rest your growing body. If you’re feeling pain or swelling, it can be very beneficial to relax in a warm bath. \n⁠\\n\\nAyurveda for Pregnancy :\\n\n⁠\n⁠This week, MyYogaTeacher has a special Ayurveda event running where you’ll learn how to align with your best self through nutrition and health changes. This specific class is designed to help you have your most healthy pregnancy with nutrition guidelines for a mom and foods to help with baby's development! \\n\nYou can also choose to work 1 on 1 with an instructor of your choice through your MyYogaTeacher membership! Let us help you have your healthiest pregnancy possible! \\n\\nGet started today!\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"cl8ka13l4ionz0ck2fe0pme7l","slug":"chronic-neck-pain-relief-yoga-poses","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Are you suffering with Chronic Neck Pain? 10 yoga poses to find relief!","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":null,"readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-27T14:11:15.683866+00:00","coverUrl":"rbh6duxy7hy3y207sg1c.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you suffer from chronic neck pain? Nearly 30-50% of adults suffer from recurring neck pain. \\nNeck pain can be a common occurrence for people who:\\nhave long commutes or sit at a desk all day\\nwho have issues with posture \\nwho have chronic sleep issues\\nOur neck and shoulders can also be a place where we may carry tension or pain due to stress. In any case, the good news is yoga can help you to relieve your neck pain and move on symptom free! \\nDaily changes you can make to avoid neck pain\\nStay in alignment. Keep good posture and try not to carry heavy bags on one side of your body. Also, if you sit at a desk and work on a computer, move your monitor to eye-sight so you’re not looking up or down. Need help finding your center? \\nWe can help here at MyYogaTeacher! \\n\\nStay active! It’s important to stay mobilized.  If you sit all day, take breaks to move around and give your body a break from being stuck in one position. Can’t take breaks at work? Try to go for a walk on lunch or maybe before or after your workday. \\nCheck your sleep environment. Make sure your mattress and pillows are still in good shape. Look into the best pillows for your sleep type or body. Getting quality sleep will help you avoid tossing and turning and can be your remedy to wake pain free. \\nIf you’re feeling like you need to move, starting with any slower yoga practice will help! Yin, hatha and restorative classes will all leave your body feeling relaxed, renewed and free of pain. Want to flow on your own? Here are our top ten poses to try! \\n10 Yoga Poses to relieve Chronic Neck Pain :\\n1. Easy seat with ear to shoulder stretch\\nThis pose releases your neck and shoulders and helps relieve tension and stress.\\nStart by sitting with your legs crossed and a straight back. Shoulders down. Bring your ear down to your shoulder. To deepen the stretch, bring your opposite arm overhead. \\n\\n\\n\\n2. Child’s Pose\\nReleases tension in the upper body including the neck and chest.\\nBring your knees as wide as the mat and sit into your heels. You can bring your chest to the mat and extend your arms forward or come to rest on a pillow or bolster. Try to hold this pose for up to 5 breaths. \\n\\n\\n\\n3. Downward facing dog\\nHelps to relieve neck pain by strengthening the upper body and releasing the spine. \\nStart by coming onto all fours. Check your alignment- make sure your shoulders are over your wrist, and your hips over your knees. Without changing the position of your hands and feet, push up and back to bring your heels into the ground. Relax your head, neck and shoulders down. \\n\\n\\n\\n4. Bridge Pose\\nReleases chest, neck, spine and hips.\\nLay down on your mat, bring your feet as close to your glutes as possible. Bring your hands to the sides of your body palms down. Push into the feet and hands while you lift your core and back to the ceiling. Try to relax and breathe here. \\n\\n\\n\\n5. Wide Leg forward fold\\nReleases spine, neck and back. If you’re in pain perform this stretch slowly, and come up one vertebrae at a time. \\nBring your feet as wide as you can, feet facing forward. Hinge at the hips and slowly bend forward and down towards your feet. You can hang here or grab yogi toe lock around your big toe. \\n\\n\\n\\n6. Cow face pose\\nStrengthens core and spine.\\nSit up tall and stack your knees directly over one another. Reach one arm back around your waist and one arm over your shoulder with your palms reaching towards one another. If you can, clasp your hands. If not, rest them on your back, you will still benefit from the pose. \\n\\n\\n\\n7. Sphinx pose\\nThis pose will help to physically open up the shoulders and neck. Looking side to side slowly is a great addition to the pose. \\nLie on your stomach and bring your hands next to your chest facing down. On your inhale press into the ground and lift your upper body. \\n\\n\\n\\n8. Thread the Needle \\nIncreases mobility and releases tension in the upper body. \\nCome on to all fours. Check your alignment, make sure your hips are over your knees, shoulders over your wrist. Reach one arm out to the side and thread it through the opposite side under your ribs. You can stay here or open up the opposite side by reaching the hand to the back or straight up and over. Make sure to do both sides. \\n\\n\\n\\n9. Legs up the wall\\nReleases tension and stress from the upper body by reversing blood flow. \\nFind a wall near your practice space and sit next to the wall as close as possible. Lower your head, neck and shoulders onto your mat, then roll onto your back and stretch your legs up the wall. You can stay in this restorative pose for up to 10 minutes. \\n\\n\\n\\n10. Savasana\\nSavasana releases any stress, lowers heart rate and calms the body. \\nCome onto your back on your mat, and release your body down. This is known as corpse pose because it is a full and final rest at the end of our practice. Release and let go of any and all tension. \\n\\n\\n\\nClasses to help relieve neck pain \\n\\nYoga fusion for joints \\n- This class will help you roll out your joint pain and stretch your tight limbs and joints. \\n\\nYoga for Back Pain\\n - Sometimes, neck pain can be caused by tightness in the spine. Experts say yoga helps soothe muscle pains. Try this class to strengthen and lengthen your neck and back for pain relief! \\n\\nYoga for Neck and Shoulder Pain\\n - Do you sit all day at work? Struggle with your posture? This class will help relieve upper body tension. \\n\nSo if you’re ready to make your neck pain a thing of the past, join us today. Our trial includes two free weeks of group fitness classes, one on one classes and so much more! \\nGet started on your yoga journey now!\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"cl8cuq5nnh5860biyek2vhu2w","slug":"reproductive-rights-for-women-yoga-workshop","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop - Supporting Women Through Yoga","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":null,"readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-22T09:28:27.679552+00:00","coverUrl":"dkjwcigamkavxe0yziwq.jpg","content":{"text":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s first ever Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop!\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we believe in the wisdom of women to make their own choices about their health. \\n\\nThat’s why we’re excited to offer the\\n Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop on October 2 from 9 AM - 11 AM PST (12 PM - 2 PM EST) for only $10!\\nIn the past, our community events have been free. So why are we charging a nominal fee for this one?\\nBecause ALL proceeds from the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop go to support the \\nCenter for Reproductive Rights\\n charity, a nonprofit organization, the \\nonly\\n global legal advocacy organization dedicated to advancing reproductive rights.\\nIn the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs Wade and on the day before the new term of the Supreme Court begins, we think this workshop is a perfect way to silently protest this new ruling through self-care and donations to an organization like the Center for Reproductive Rights.\\nThis will also be a time of healing and processing with a couple of awesome expert yoga instructors!\\nHow to join the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop\\nWhether you’re a member or not, \\nJust click this link and register \\nas you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\nIntroducing a very special guest yoga instructor coming just for this event!\n\\nMeet Harpinder Mann, RYT-500!\\n\\n\n\\nHarpinder is a yoga, meditation, mindfulness teacher, and decolonizing activist based in Los Angeles. She works with women of color who want to reclaim their power and intuition through the lens of a spiritual, joyful, and sustainable path. Her studies have spanned from reading the Japji Sahib since she was 3, to over 700 hours of yogic training within the traditions of Raja, Vinyasa, Kundalini, and Prenatal Yoga. \\nWe’re super excited to have her lead the beginning of the workshop. Afterwards, MyYogaTeacher yoga instructor, \\nTrupti Parikh\\n, will lead us in asanas, and a discussion session will follow.\\nAre you ready to experience a workshop where we solely focus on supporting and advocating for women’s health \\nwhile\\n improving our mental, emotional, and physical health?\\n\\nJoin us for the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop!\\n\\nTogether, we make a difference."},"category":["workshops"]},{"id":"cl8a9804vy5de0biznpg4ai2t","slug":"yoga-benefits-for-runners","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga For Runners : Why Runners Should Incorporate Yoga Into Their Training?","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Adopting an active yoga practice to complement your running routine can have tons of benefits! Read now to learn more","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-20T13:50:56.406936+00:00","coverUrl":"tbdacuzob0fuqml8dyjd.jpg","content":{"text":"Training for a big race? Setting some goals you want to crush before the year ends? No matter what your reasons, yoga can be a great way to cross train for running from a 5k to a marathon! Running is great for your heart and body but can also be a huge strain on the muscles. Having an active yoga practice to complement your running routine can have tons of benefits! Let’s dive into how yoga can help!\\n1. Breathing\\nProper breathing and breath stabilization are both incredibly important principles in Yoga and Running. If you can practice proper breathing while running, you can maintain speed longer because you will take long deeper breaths to match your long strides, instead of short breaths which cause instability and speed decline.\\nPracticing Pranayama for runners - \\nAdding a pranayama breath practice before a run can help you to maintain focus as well as speed. Even if running is a release for you, and feels relaxing, Using breathwork to relax and focus can help you clearly see the physical and mental road ahead. Pranayama can also help if things are going off course on your run. If you need to regain control, you can come back to your breath and refocus. With these practices together, your run really can be a religious experience, or a way to relieve stress! \\nTo start a pranayama practice, all you need to do is focus on controlling your inhale and exhale. Start by standing tall and relaxed, or sitting tall and calm if you prefer. Close your eyes and focus inward. Start by breathing in for two and out for two. As you continue to grow your practice, you can  build up to breathing in for six and out for six. You can even play with pausing for two to four breaths in between your inhale and exhale. When you finally build a practice you’re confident with, you can start to set intentions and visualize your success. With this practice, you’ll begin to see your running dreams come true!\\n\\n2. Flexibility/Strength\\nIt would be great if in life, we only ever needed to do one thing to get to our goals. But in reality,just like we can’t have cookies for every meal, cross training for runners is essential to maintaining a long term healthy routine. While you could easily just add weight training or stretching a la cart into your week, yoga gives you more by going deeper and getting into those smaller, harder to access ligaments and tendons you might otherwise miss with strength training . Adding yoga into your running routine can reduce the risk of injury and help to maintain your goals. The more flexible your muscles are, the less likely they are to tense up or be stressed during running so you can move with more confidence and ease. Not to mention, it’s always great to look forward to a nice long stretch after a run. \\n\n3. Conditioning \\nWe all know running is GREAT for your cardiovascular health, can add years on to your life and keep your heart pumping at its best! But it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a veteran, running can make your body sore. Yoga is great for conditioning those tired and fatigued muscles without having to “take a day off” to rest. In between your runs or on conditioning days, you can take a class focused on your back or knee health, or even a class to open tight hips after a long run. There’s nothing the magic of yoga can’t do! \\n\n4. Balance/Posture\\nEven though running is a “walk in the park” compared to ballet where balance is concerned, you still need to do your best to focus on alignment while you move.\\nYoga can improve your running form by elongating the limbs so you cover more ground in less time. You'll be PR’ing in no time! Proper alignment is also important when running because as you increase your speed, the level of impact (and injury) becomes greater. Maintaining your body's alignment during movement assures you arrive at the finish line aliment free! Love a tree pose? Want to learn to fly into a warrior? Lots of yoga poses force you to balance on one leg, which helps you to build a unilateral movement practice much like the ebbs and flows you take while running. \\n5. Stress and Mental Clarity\\nFeeling stressed before a big run? Worried about your PR? Yoga can help! Focus your breathing and set an intention. You’ve got this!\\nFocus and clarity are so important when running so you can know where you’re headed and stay on track. Add your yoga practice in before training or race days and you’ll feel your worries melt away. According to scientists at \\nHarvard,\\n adding just minutes of yoga to your week can improve your outlook, slow down the body and decrease stress. You’ll find your body will be more relaxed, focused and ready to run for those goals when you release your tension with yoga. \\nGetting started:\\nSo what do you need to get started? Simple! Yourself, a mat, some water and a quiet space are all you need! Are you ready to add yoga into your running routine? \\nGet started with a two week free trial of our classes and one on one sessions!\\n\\nLet’s figure out where your yoga practice would serve you best! \\nDoing yoga BEFORE your run will help you to warm up your muscles and ligaments. By fully warming up your body before you hit the pavement, you decrease the chances of injury, help with an easier recovery and can improve your PR as you continue to train! \\nBest Yoga Poses to practice before a run :\\nHigh Lunge - This pose stretches the legs from top of the thighs down to the ankle\\n\\nWarrior II - Helps with focus and stamina. Great before heading out!\\n\\nSide angle bend - This stretch helps to stretch the side body and release any tension in the shoulders and spine. \\n\\n⁠Prefer to do yoga after your run? That’s a great option too! Yoga is great for recovery after a run! Finishing your running routine with a yoga stretch helps you to rebalance. You can stretch muscles or limbs that became tight during your run and strengthen anything  that may have become fatigued. You can also refocus and deepen your breath to reset for the next part of your day. \\nBest Yoga Poses to practice after a run :\\nButterfly Pose - a basic hip opener to ease into your stretch\\n\\nHalf Pigeon - A great pose for multiple alignments! Working through the psoas and hip flexors. Make sure to practice on both sides.\\n\\nHappy Baby - This pose is great for finishing up your hip opener extension while giving a nice massage to the back and stretching the soles of the feet.\\n\\nWant to take a class? Try some of our favorite classes for runners!\\n\\nYoga for Strength and flexibility \\n\\n\\nYoga for Knee Pain\\n\\n\\nYoga for Back health\\n\\nReady to join us for class? \\nGet started with a free trial now! \\n\\nRemember, with a great training plan for your runs, and an ongoing yoga practice you’ll be ready to run to your greatest finish line feeling and looking your best! Just like peanut butter and jelly, yoga and running are great together!"},"category":["fitness","yoga"]},{"id":"cl81n0o6wh1g80ajz2gpco553","slug":"yoga-at-home","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"How to Start Doing Yoga at Home","subTitle":"Everything you need to know for an at-home yoga routine","seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Get a beginner’s guide to starting yoga at home with tips and suggestions for setting up your own practice, including online yoga classes and private lessons.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn how to perform yoga at home with this quick and easy guide","tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-14T13:07:13.39269+00:00","coverUrl":"cqivxw3vkrcihpumlny7.jpg","content":{"text":"There are lots of reasons for doing yoga at home instead of a yoga studio, some of which include distance, busy schedules, kids, financial concerns, and health issues. The good news is you can set up your own yoga practice at home, and still get all the benefits of a regular yoga routine — without the studio. It can also be a great way to integrate yoga into your life on a regular basis, and it’s easy to do in your own home.\\nCan Anyone do Yoga at Home?\\nAnyone can perform yoga at home, and you don’t have to be an advanced yogi to try. Even beginners can practice yoga in a home environment, all you need is adequate floor space, a few (optional) pieces of equipment, and guidelines for practicing the primary yoga poses. \\nIf you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to first learn from a certified yoga instructor, so you can progress with the proper technique and alignment to avoid injury. Thanks to online learning platforms like\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n, you can still practice yoga at home with the help of a qualified teacher.\\n11 Tips on How to Perform Yoga At Home\\nThe idea of starting a yoga practice in your very own living room can seem daunting or intimidating at first, especially if you’re accustomed to attending classes in a yoga studio. But with a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can set up your own yoga space and develop a mindful yoga routine that can benefit your life.\\nHere are some suggestions to help get you started:\\n1. Make Space in Your Home for Yoga\\nIt’s easy (and fun) to make your own yoga space, and you can design it as a temporary space or a dedicated one, depending on your needs. All you need is enough floor space to move around and stretch out the full length of your body — a little more than the length and width of your yoga mat. This can be your living or bedroom floor, your kitchen, or your backyard. Just make sure there isn’t any furniture or objects lying around that could get in your way or cause injury.\\n2. Decorate With Calming Accessories\\nYou can also create a comfortable and inviting space for yoga by hanging calming or inspiring artwork on the wall, lighting a candle or incense, and keeping a few house plants nearby for a pleasing atmosphere. The more you can tailor and dedicate your space for yoga, the easier it will be to motivate yourself to keep up a steady routine. Hanging a mirror in front of your practice space is also helpful in maintaining the correct alignment while performing postures.\\n3. Be Prepared With the Right Equipment\\n\\nYou’ll want to invest in a yoga mat, and it’s wise to also keep modifying props on hand — like blocks, bolsters, blankets, and a strap. If you’re just starting out and you’d like to improvise for props, you can use pillows, blankets, and other items around the house to suit your needs. Just make sure your props are sturdy, supportive, and nearby for when you need them.\\n4. Practice Regularly\\nThe best part about practicing yoga at home is it can be done any time you want. The challenge lies in your dedication and commitment to the practice even when your couch appears more inviting.\\n \\nAccording to this study\\n, it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to create a new habit. It’s important to be patient with yourself and identify guidelines for your practice that you can realistically follow through with. \\n5. Schedule Your Yoga Session\\nSet yourself up for success by committing to your yoga practice at a certain time of day, and for a specified number of days per week. It’s best to start out easy with goals that are achievable and progress as you gain momentum. For instance, if you’ve never been an early riser, don’t expect yourself to suddenly start practicing yoga at dawn. If that’s the case, try scheduling your yoga session for late morning, afternoon or evening, and keep your existing schedule in mind when planning a time that works for you.\\n6. Keep it Simple\\nRegardless of your experience or ability level, practicing yoga at home means watching out for your own safety. Make sure you have props handy for when you need them, and avoid overdoing it with strenuous poses. When it doubt, keep your routine simple. Even if you’re an advanced yogi, those basic, primary yoga poses are still an important part of a holistic yoga practice, and may be less likely to cause injury.\\n7. Listen to Your Body\\nThe best way to avoid getting hurt while practicing yoga at home is to listen to your body. If any posture causes you discomfort or pain, stop practicing it immediately — no matter how easy or difficult the pose. Don’t push yourself too hard, and remember to focus on your alignment. If you are unsure of how to execute a specific pose, try learning it from a certified instructor before performing it on your own at home.\\n8. Take an Online Yoga Class\\n\\nBy far the best way to practice yoga at home is with an online class. This way, you get all the benefits of doing yoga at home in your own time, with the added help of an instructor who can make sure you’re performing poses safely and effectively. You can find\\n online group classes\\n for every type of yoga at\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n, with over 42 classes offered throughout the day. Private, 1-on-1 instructors are also available for at-home yoga, giving you plenty of options to get the right kind of training while still practicing in the comfort of your own home.\\n9. Squeeze in a Short Practice\\nThe beauty of an at-home yoga practice means you can squeeze in a quick session when you just have 20-30 minutes of time. Even short yoga routines are beneficial for your body and mind, and performing a few of the primary yoga poses on a daily basis will change your life for the better. Try incorporating the Sun Salutation flow series into your morning routine when you first get out of bed in the morning, or practicing some relaxing poses like Legs-Up-The-Wall or Savasana in the evening. \\n10. Switch it Up and Make it Fun\\nYoga doesn’t always have to be serious, and you can make your home yoga practice fun and spontaneous for you and your family. Practicing with your kids is a great way to help them learn mindfulness and self-awareness, while stretching and strengthening their growing bodies. You can also take your practice to the backyard to enjoy sunshine and good weather, or invite friends over to share in the experience. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!\\n11. End Every Practice With Savasana\\nWhen practicing yoga at home, it can be tempting to skip important parts of the journey due to time constraints, distractions, or disinterest. If there is one element of yoga you should never skip, it’s Savasana, or otherwise known as Corpse pose. Always end your practice with 5 minutes of relaxation to help your body integrate the routine. Keep a blanket nearby to warm your body after it has cooled down, and consider an eye pillow to help you relax. Your body and mind will thank you as you move on to the rest of your day, having given yourself the gift of healthy movement to better your life."},"category":["yoga","therapy"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"ckfqyypmo01wl01260xlusqga","slug":"yoga-transformed-my-life","author":{"name":"Viral","teacherMytSlug":"viral-1","pictureUrl":"viral-cover.jpg"},"title":"Yoga transformed my life","createdAt":"2019-09-09T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"viral-cover.jpg","content":{"text":"I vividly recall when my mom went through a surgery and the doctor asked her to start practicing yoga &\\n meditation\\n. I left my corporate job to look after her and we appointed a yoga teacher for her. I had a passion for fitness & I practiced yoga consistently since I was a teenager. My mom’s yoga teacher would see me practice yoga daily. I was also preparing for IELTS as I was planning for my double master’s degree in New Zealand. My mom’s yoga teacher was impressed with my dedication & discipline towards my \\nyoga practice\\n and advised me to do a Teachers Training Course from The Yoga Institute. \\n\\nInitially, I did not consider it as an option. But, as I witnessed the change in my mother’s health and how Yoga worked wonders for her, I began to rethink my decision. All her medication had been stopped and she was living a healthy life. That’s where I decided to join the Level 1 programme at The Yoga Institute in the year 2017.\\n\\nThere are so many people who are unaware of the miracles yoga can do and I want to let everyone know that miracles do happen.\\n\\nThe union of body & breath along with the deep relaxation at the end of class began to teach me how to switch off my overactive mind & connect to my inner self. As I started practicing meditation, it brought me closer to my real nature & I began to enjoy the silence within.\\n\\nAs my respect for the practice grew, I enrolled for the advanced Level 2 Teachers Training Programme and I dropped my plan to study in New Zealand. Over the last few years my relationship with yoga has grown in multi-dimensional directions. It has enhanced my mental, spiritual, physical & \\nemotional well-being\\n.\\n\\nThe attitude of gratitude is the highest Yoga.\\n\\nYoga has brought a sense of deep gratitude towards everything big and small. I now find myself on a journey where learning is bliss & I love enhancing people’s life in a positive way.\\n\\nThe path of yoga is not a destination, it’s a journey & it’s one that I’m blessed to be taking. \\n"}},{"id":"ckk6171m80qng09252bc0eedt","slug":"what-to-look-for-in-yoga-ttc","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"7 Things To Look For in Your Next Yoga Teacher Training","createdAt":"2021-01-20T23:02:14.849663+00:00","coverUrl":"shutterstock_1661655565.jpg","content":{"text":"Community Experience\\nQuality of Teachers\\nWell rounded Curriculum\\nYoga Alliance Certification\\nSchedule & Location\\nType of TTC: 200-hr, 300-hr, 500-hr, Yoga Therapy\\nCourse Price\\n\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\n\\nIf you want to have the best possible experience, \\nhere are 7 key-factors you should look for in your next Yoga TTC\\n.\\n\\n\\n1. Community Experience\\n\\nYou would never know this without having done a teacher training course\\n, but the community experience is one of the best (or worst) parts of a TTC.\\n\\nYou should \\nnever sign up for a TTC where you haven't connected with the community\\n. So no random residentials in Bali or taking a TTC at the local yoga studio. Not unless you've done at least a few classes there and seen if you like it.\\n\\nThe \\nlast thing you want is to spend 200 to 500 hours feeling awkward\\n around people who just aren't 'your people'!\\n\\nWhen you \\nfind a studio, retreat center, or online community you vibe with\\n, then you'll likely have an \\nincredible TTC experience\\n. You'll make life-long friends who have the same passion for personal growth, authenticity, kindness, and joy in their life!\\n\\nBut none of this is likely if you don't check out the community first. That's why at myYogaTeacher \\nyou can start off with a 2-week free trial before ever signing up for the TTC\\n (or any other course or workshop).\\n\\n\\n2. Quality of Teachers\\n\\nNext, you'll want to \\nbe sure that the teachers leading the TTC are highly qualified and experienced yoga teachers\\n.\\n\\nNot only do you want them to be experienced at teaching yoga, you want to make sure they are \\nexperienced at teaching other teachers to teach yoga\\n.\\n\\nYou see, TTCs are a fast way for yoga teachers to make a lot of money. So for the really good teachers, it becomes an essential part of their lifestyle. \\n\\nBut it also attracts a lot of brand new teachers looking to increase their income.\\n\\nSo \\nyou'll want to find out how many TTCs they've led, and what previous students thought about it\\n. Any well established TTC will be able to offer you testimonials from previous students. And will be quick to answer your questions about how many TTC's they've led.\\n\\nRohan, the lead teacher for \\nmyYogaTeacher's TTCs has lead 17 in-person TTCs, 6 online TTCs, and managed 13 other TTCs\\n. That's a lot more than your average Yoga TTC leader, but it's important to know you're in good hands!\\n\\nAnd true to our own tests, \\nyou can see what past TTC graduates are saying here\\n.\\n\\n\\n3. Well Rounded Curriculum\\n\\nA Yoga Teacher Training is a life changing opportunity to go deeper in yoga. You can discover aspects of yoga no regular class has the time or structure to show you.\\n\\nBut that being said, \\nif your TTC curriculum is bland, or asana only, you'll continue to only scratch the surface of what yoga has to offe\\nr.\\n\\nThat's why it's so\\n important that your TTC covers more than just asana and correct alignment\\n... that's the minimum.\\n\\nYou want to \\nfind a TTC that also dives into pranayama (yogic breathing exercises), meditation, yogic philosophy\\n. \\n\\nYou'll want a TTC where you learn about \\nPatanjali's Yoga Sutras\\n. Learning the sutras may sound academic and irrelevant. But it's practical, down to earth, and more relevant today than ever. This is \\nthe core of yogic philosophy\\n.\\n\\nAlthough you're probably signing up for the asana — \\nmost TTC students find that the philosophy and meditation practices are what transform their lives most\\n. \\n\\nYoga is a big beautiful ice-berg, and asana is just the tip...\\n\\nDon't worry though, any Yoga Alliance certified Yoga Teacher Training Course must have a well rounded curriculum.\\n\\n\\n4. Yoga Alliance Certification\\n\\nThis certification is becoming less and less relevant. Because more studio owners and yogis are realizing it's mainly a tax on teachers and studios. But it's still a certification you'll want to have.\\n\\nIt used to be that to get a job teaching yoga, you had to have Yoga Alliance certification. That's slowly changing. But today, \\nif you want to be eligible to teach yoga at most studios, you're still going to want Yoga Alliance certification\\n.\\n\\nSo make sure whatever TTC you sign up for is accredited by the Yoga Alliance. \\nAfter you graduate your TTC and receive your certificate\\n, you can go to \\nyogaalliance.org\\n and register for certification. Then, as a teacher, you pay a yearly fee to keep your certification.\\n\\nMost yoga teachers feel like it's just a way to tax yoga schools and yoga teachers. But they do, at least, \\nenforce a minimum standard of quality for TTCs\\n. So it's not all bad.\\n\\nThat's why it's still in your best interest to make sure your TTC is Yoga Alliance certified. And for this reason, \\nall myYogaTeacher TTCs are Yoga Alliance certified\\n.\\n\\n\\n5. Schedule & Location\\n\\nThis one comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. There are \\ntwo main types of TTC; residential and non-residential\\n.\\n\\nA \\nresidential TTC\\n is often in a beautiful location like India, Bali, Mexico, or some other tropical area. You carve out anywhere from one to three months of your life, to go live at a yoga retreat center. There, you study and practice yoga full-time. Usually 6 to 10 hours a day, 5 or 6 days a week.\\n\\nThis is a great way to have \\na fully immersive experience and do nothing but yoga for a few months\\n.\\n\\nNot all of us can do that. \\nWith kids, work, and other responsibilities non-residential TTCs are the best option for most of us.\\n\\nIn a \\nnon-residential TTC\\n, you \\nstudy part time\\n at your local yoga studio or online. The schedule is still intense, because you need to finish anywhere from 150 to 450 hours of class time (the last 50 hours is self-study).\\n\\nThis means that for a 200-hour TTC, you'll need to spend 150-hours in class. So even at part time, 12 hours a week, that's a 3 month course.\\n\\nYou'll want to find a TTC that has the right schedule for you. Is 6 hours a week for 6 months better for you, or 12 hours a week for 3 months? Do weekends work better, or weekday nights?\\n\\nFor you, these may be inflexible. But \\nafter watching hundreds of students complete TTCs, I've seen that most people can make any schedule work\\n. Even a working mom can do 12 hours on the weekend. It's an adjustment, but I often hear them saying things like; \\n\\n\"I didn't know how I would do it, it was so much time every weekend. But I really wanted to join the TTC and I knew that if I didn't do it now, I might never do it! Then, it turned out to be completely manageable. Actually, I look forward to every Saturday, it's the best part of my week. And I'm getting so much 'me' time!\"  \\n         - every mom who takes a TTC\\n\\nSo \\nbefore getting too hung up on the schedule, ask yourself, \"can I make this work?\" And if so, then focus on the other parts first; the community, teachers, and a well rounded curriculum.\\n\\n\\n6. Type of TTC: 200-hr, 300-hr, 500-hr, Yoga Therapy\\n\\nThere are dozens of popular styles of yoga and many different types of TTCs.\\n\\nWhen it comes to the style of yoga;\\n Vinyasa, Ashtanga, \\nPower Yoga\\n, or some home-brand yoga — don't worry too much here. \\nIf you've taken classes with the teacher, you know their style. Do you like it? If so, then you'll probably love the TTC\\n. If not, move on until you find a teacher with a style you do like.\\n\\nWhat you don't want to do\\n is go looking for a specific style, thinking \\n\"I've heard Vinyasa is the best, I should only do a Vinyasa TTC.\"\\n That's a quick way to waste a lot of money and have a disappointing experience.\\n\\nRemember, this TTC is as much for you as it is for your future students\\n. You want to make sure that you have a deeply uplifting and enlightening experience. And you want to share a style of yoga that you love, not the one you heard is \"better\".\\n\\nDo you know what I mean?\\n\\nNow when it comes to \\nthe type of TTC\\n: 200-hr, 300-hr, 500-hr or Yoga Therapy, \\nchoosing is pretty easy\\n.\\n\\nA \\n200-hour TTC is perfect for beginners\\n. It's the entry point and smallest time commitment. If you like the TTC experience, you can always take a 300-hr TTC later. This will bump your training hours up to a total of 500.\\n\\nThe \\n300-hour TTC has traditionally been for people who have already completed a 200-hour TTC\\n. That's changing recently, but it's still the norm. This is a great way to get 500-hours of certified training, without having to quit your job or dedicate 9 months of your weekends to full-days of study... Intense!\\n\\nA \\n500-hour TTC is good for beginner to advanced yogis\\n. It's basically the 200-hour and 300-hour rolled into one. You make a big commitment and dedicate a few months of your life to a deep-dive, full-time yoga immersion. These are usually residential.\\n\\nAnd finally, a \\nYoga Therapy TTC\\n. These are \\nfor advanced teachers who want to specialize\\n in solving big problems for their clients. You don't have to be super flexible or anything like that. But you will become an expert at anatomy, perfect alignment, and healing all sorts of injuries and illnesses with yoga. These TTCs are often 600-900 hours of training, with long apprenticeships. \\n\\nYou typically must have already graduated a 200-hour or 500-hour Teacher Training Course, before you can apply to join a Yoga Therapy TTC. So graduating a TTC is a prerequisite for Yoga Therapy TTCs.\\n\\nIf you've never taken a Yoga Teacher Training Course, you'll probably want to start with either the 200-hr TTC\\n or 500-hr TTC, depending on the time and energy commitment you want to make.\\n\\n\\n7. Course Price\\n\\nThe last thing you want to do is pay more than you should\\n when it comes to your next Yoga Teacher Training Course.\\n\\nYoga TTCs are not cheap to begin with. So you probably don't want to overpay.\\n\\nIn a studio, you can expect to pay around $3,500 for a 200-hr TTC\\n (plus or minus $800). This is a fair range, so watch out for any 200-hour TTC that costs more than $4,300. Unless the teacher is famous or highly sought after, you're probably better off going elsewhere.\\n\\nBut these days, \\nunderpaying is even more of a problem\\n. You see, for the first time ever, Yoga TTCs have gone online. \\nYou'll see 200-hr online TTCs for $900, $600, even $400. \\n\\nWhy is this a problem?\\n\\nWhat these TTCs aren't telling you is that 85% of the course is pre-recorded video\\n. That's how they keep the cost down and therefore the price down. It's not so different from what you might find free on YouTube.\\n\\nI don't know about you, but I \\ndon't want my next yoga teacher to have learned from a bunch of YouTube videos!\\n\\nThat's a quick way to injure yourself, and your future students.\\n\\nDefinitely and absolutely, weather in-person or online, make sure your next TTC is 100% live instruction. It's totally OK to take a TTC online, just make sure it is 100% live.\\n\\nSo you get to ask questions DURING class, DURING lectures, and DURING examples. Not just at \"office hours\" 1-week after the class, when you forgot your questions anyways.\\n\\nWith live instruction you get feedback in every practice session. And importantly, you learn the nuances of the asanas.\\n\\nTTCs can be tough. Long hours and lots of learning\\n. With \\nlive instruction and an interactive setting\\n (only possible in-person or through live classes online), you \\nstay motivated and connect with your new yoga community\\n.\\n\\nThat's why \\nevery one of myYogaTeacher's TTCs is 100% live\\n. You'll find the price very reasonable. It's much less expensive than in-person at a studio, but necessarily enough to pay living breathing teachers to give every class live.\\n\\nIf you're interested in a 100% Live TTC\\n, \\nyou can check out myYogaTeacher's TTC full course description here\\n (with testimonials, course syllabus, and reasonable rates).\\n\\nWhen you follow these 7-steps, you can't go wrong. You'll have an incredible TTC experience, make new friends for life, and walk away a better yogi, better parent, better human\\n... You'll be less reactive, with more self-acceptance, and more full of joy!\\n\\nSo now you have everything you need to choose your next TTC wisely. And \\nif you have any questions\\n about TTCs or myYogaTeacher's upcoiming TTCs, feel free to drop us a line and ask at \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n"}},{"id":"ckj8x24cw75fo0934a9ivozbm","slug":"yoga-for-flexibility-poses","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Flexibility: 8 Yoga Poses That Make You Bendy Fast!","createdAt":"2020-12-28T18:50:02.147552+00:00","coverUrl":"yoga-for-flexibility-poses-1.png","content":{"text":"If you're feeling about as flexible as a board, yoga can help! Contrary to what some people believe, you don't have to be already flexible to get started with yoga. In fact, practicing yoga regularly can help you increase flexibility and mobility. But with thousands of poses to choose from, how do you actually practice yoga for flexibility? Keep reading... we're going to teach you some great poses!\\n\\nBefore we get to our yoga poses to increase your flexibility, let's take a minute to look at why flexibility is important and explore the connection between yoga and flexibility.\\n\\nWhy Is Flexibility Important?\\nFlexibility is a key indicator of overall good physical health. Maintaining flexibility helps us in several ways:\\n\\nOver time, we can lose flexibility for any number of reasons—stress, bad posture and movements, aging. But that doesn't mean that you just have to accept this loss of flexibility and live your life without being able to tie your shoes.\\n\\nThat's where yoga comes in. Practicing yoga for flexibility can relieve tight hamstrings, calves, hips, shoulders, and more. When you participate in a yoga class or find a \\nyoga trainer online\\n, you're on your way to increasing your flexibility and your health.\\n\\nmyYogaTeacher offers several live, online yoga classes for flexibility and strength. If you want to increase your flexibility with a live yoga class from the comfort of your own home and taught by expert yoga teachers from India, \\nregister with myYogaTeacher\\n!\\n\\nThe Connection Between Yoga And Flexibility\\nAs you probably already know, yoga is more than stretching. Asanas (poses) touch major muscle groups as well as those smaller muscles that most people don't know they even have. Yoga styles like yin and restorative are excellent for deeper, longer stretches and are also effective as yoga for stress relief. You can find a live, online yin, or restorative yoga class on \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nNo matter your level of flexibility, even a short yoga practice of 10–15 minutes each day will help you increase your flexibility. There's no need to rush into advanced poses or ignore props, either. Yoga isn't about nailing a pose perfectly so you can share it with your Instagram followers. It's about learning about your body, what it needs, what it pushes against, and how you can honor it. The flexibility will come in time.\\n\\n\"How much time?\" you're probably wondering.\\n\\nIt depends.\\n\\nNot the answer anyone ever wants, but flexibility depends on a number of factors like how your joints are put together, your muscle composition, your body type, and more. But the time's going to pass anyway. Why not practice yoga for flexibility?\\n\\n8 Yoga Poses to Increase Flexibility\\nIf you're practicing yoga for flexibility, consistency is key. Doing a yoga class once a month isn't going to give you the results you want. That's why we recommend signing up for \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n where you get access to live yoga classes for a monthly fee (it’s less than the drop-in fee for most in-person classes). Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative yoga are the classes you'll want to check out to increase your flexibility.\\n\\nWant to get started right now? Here are 8 yoga poses you can use to increase your flexibility. Before practicing, you'll want to do a short warm-up (sun salutations are a great warm-up). When you're just starting out with yoga for flexibility, we recommend holding each pose for 5–10 slow, deep breaths. You can increase the number of breaths over time.\\n\\nShoulders\\nShoulders hold a lot of stress and tightness. The combination of extended periods of sitting and poor posture can lead to a lot of tension that decreases flexibility and range of motion. The \\nyoga poses\\n here are perfect for opening your shoulders, chest, and neck.\\n\\n1. Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)\\n\\nBridge pose is a great way to open through your chest and shoulders. You can modify this pose by not going up as high, not clasping your hands underneath you, or even adding a block under your sacrum for a supported bridge.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nLie down on your back and bend your knees with your feet on the floor.\\nOn the inhale, press into your heels and lift your hips upward, lengthening through your chest. Keep the knees pointing forward.\\nPress the hands into the floor or bring them underneath your back and interlace your fingers with your elbows pressed into the floor.\\n2. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)\\n\\nCobra pose is a small backbend that opens up the chest and improves flexibility in the shoulders.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nLie down on your stomach.\\nPlace your hands underneath your shoulders and press up through your hands while lifting your chest.\\nKeep your lower body grounded into the floor.\\nBack\\nLower back pain can be a result of tension, a weak core, or a number of other reasons. These poses will help you gently stretch your back and regain mobility.\\n\\n3. Marjariasana & Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose)\\n\\nThe cat-cow pose is technically the combination of two separate poses but they're often found together. This pose improves flexibility and mobility in the neck, shoulders, spine, and core.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nStart on all fours with wrists under shoulders and knees under hips. Your weight should be balanced evenly.\\nOn the inhale, let your stomach fall towards the floor as you raise your chest and chin.\\nOn the exhale, press your hands into the floor and round your spine towards the ceiling, tucking your chin into your chest.\\n4. Supta Matsyendrasana (Supine Spinal Twist)\\n\\nTwists are great for the spine! There are tons of different twisting yoga poses for flexibility but this one is perfect for relieving tightness and tension as well as improving mobility in the back.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet on the ground.\\nBring your knees to your chest, place your right hand on the outside of your left thigh.\\nDrop your legs over to the right side and use your right hand to deepen the twist as much as feels good. Be sure to keep your shoulders on the ground.\\nStretch your left arm out to the side and let your gaze fall to the left.\\nRepeat on the other side.\\nHips\\nThe hips are packed full of muscles. To get better flexibility and mobility in your hips, focus on poses that stretch the psoas, iliacus, hip flexors, quads, and glutes.\\n\\n5. \\nKapotasana\\n (Pigeon Pose)\\n\\nPigeon pose helps you deeply stretch your hip flexors as well as giving you a nice stretch across your glutes. If you have very tight hips, you can use blocks and bolsters to make yourself more comfortable.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nStart in Downward Facing Dog and lift your right leg into the air.\\nBring your right leg into your body center and place your foot next to your right wrist or wherever it feels right for you. Keep your right foot flexed.\\nUntuck your back toes and rest your left leg on the ground, rotated inward.\\n6. Anjaneyasana (Crescent Lunge Pose)\\n\\nCrescent lunge pose is a great pose because you can choose any number of ways to enjoy it. It's an excellent hip opener that gives you great control over how intense the stretch is.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nStart on your knees and bring your left leg forward, placing your left foot flat on the floor. Untuck the toes on your rear foot.\\nLift your arms overhead as you push your hips forward, sinking into your left knee.\\nSlightly arch your back and lift through your chest if that feels right for you.\\nRepeat on the other side.\\nHamstrings\\nTight hamstrings are a common complaint from those seeking out yoga for flexibility. Being tight in this area can lead to other problems like lower back pain.\\n\\n7. Paschimottanasana (Straight Legged Seated Forward Fold Pose)\\n\\nA seated forward fold is an excellent hamstring stretch. You don't have to be able to grab your feet to benefit from this stretch, either. Some people with really tight hamstrings can get a stretch from a slight lean towards the feet. You can use a yoga strap if that keeps you steady in your stretch.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nStart in Staff Pose with your bottom on the floor and your legs straight out in front of you.\\nLift your arms over your head and slowly fold your torso over your legs until you can reach your shins, ankles, toes, or anywhere that feels right for you and gives you a nice, not painful stretch.\\n8. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)\\n\\nDownward-facing dog is an excellent pose for just about everything. It's commonly used as a resting or transition pose in yoga class but it's a great stretching and strengthening pose for your entire body. And it's great for increasing the flexibility in your hamstrings.\\n\\nTo do this pose:\\nStart on all fours with your feet slightly narrower than hip distances. Your toes should be tucked and your hands lined up with your shoulders.\\nOn the inhale push your hips back and up, engaging your shoulders, legs, and core. Your weight should be evenly distributed.\\nPush through your heels to feel your hamstrings stretch. Walk your feet by bending one knee at a time.\\nWrapping Up\\nNow you know 8 yoga poses that will help you improve your flexibility. When you practice yoga for flexibility consistently, you'll notice that you not only get more flexible but you'll be stronger, healthier, and have greater peace of mind. Plus, the more you work on your flexibility, the less pain and muscle tension you'll have in your body.\\n\\nThese poses are a great starting point, but if you really want to enjoy the benefits of yoga faster, you'll definitely want to register for \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n. We offer yoga for flexibility, yoga for stress relief, and so much more. And, myYogaTeacher is more than just a bunch of pre-recorded yoga videos. With us, you get access to the finest yoga teachers from India—they really become your yoga trainer online. Join us today and get started on your journey towards flexibility."}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"cl8kb5f23jq1w0ciscs2h2bxw","slug":"benefits-of-yoga-for-pregnancy","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"What are the Benefits of Yoga for Pregnancy?","createdAt":"2022-09-27T14:42:36.767798+00:00","coverUrl":"kvvlqndsbow5dsckhw7i.jpg","content":{"text":"When you get pregnant, people come out of the woodworks with advice, remedies and old wives tales. Everyone’s got an opinion on how you should spend your pregnancy. But the one thing we know for sure is, yoga is great for mom and baby alike. If you’re curious about prenatal yoga, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down why this type of yoga is excellent for moms (and babies).\\nWhat is prenatal yoga?\\nPrenatal yoga was designed for women who are expecting. Rather than taking a regular class and having to worry about modifications or safety, this class is specifically designed for pregnancy. The practice can help women with common pregnancy aches and pains, ease hormonal and emotional stress and help women’s bodies prepare for birth and their postpartum journey. A regular yoga practice when pregnant has tons of amazing benefits!\\nBenefits of Prenatal yoga: \\nWe asked women who’ve done prenatal yoga while pregnant for their reviews, one said “ It’s excellent for stress relief, pain relief, and preparation for labor.” And they all said they’d recommend it to friends! \\nSo let's break down the benefits: \\nRelaxation : \\nPregnancy can be very stressful! But yoga will help you to relax physically, mentally and emotionally and create a safe, relaxing environment for birth. Prenatal helps you with coping and breath techniques for all stages of your pregnancy.\n\\nPreparation for birth : \\nFor first time moms, and even sometimes vets, labor can be scary. This practice will help you to learn birth techniques so you’re relaxed and ready to go!\n⁠\\nYoga can Help with Labor : \\nIn a 2015 study\\n, It was found that a regular yoga practice in the last 10-12 weeks of pregnancy can improve the mother's comfort during labor and help facilitate the labor process. The “yoga group” in this study on average was in labor two hours less than those who didn’t practice. Past your due date? Prenatal Yoga is also known to help induce labor\n⁠\\nCommunity : \\nYoga classes have always been known to help us build community but during pregnancy, it's so important to have a group of women who understand what you’re going through. Taking part in a prenatal class puts you in a group of women who get it. You’ll have a built in support system and maybe even first friends for your baby!\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Prenatal Yoga:\\nIs Yoga for Pregnancy safe?\\nYes. Yoga is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, you should always consult your doctor & make sure you’re practicing with a teacher who understands the prenatal experience and can keep you safe. Our teachers are experts in yoga and are ready to help you on your journey. If you’d like to check out our offerings, you can get started today with a two week free trial! \\nWhen during pregnancy can you practice yoga?\\nDuring your first trimester, you can stick to your regular practice with some modifications. \\nYour second trimester is a GREAT time to start prenatal yoga! At this point, you’ll be starting to officially come into your “pregnancy body” and you’ll need to be practicing poses more specific to prenatal. The second and third trimester are considered the “prep period” for your body to prepare for labor. So it's a great time to keep moving and stretching in your new skin as you make room for the baby to grow! \\nWhat yoga poses should you avoid doing? \\nFor the most part, yoga is considered safe during pregnancy. You really only need to focus on any poses that put pressure on your abdomen. You should avoid any and all twisting poses, backbends and inversions.. \\nYoga for Pregnancy Poses you can perform at Home :\\nIt’s important to stay active during your pregnancy for both mom and baby! You should try to get in some sort of movement daily for at least 30 minutes. You can stick to low impact workouts or walks but if you want to do some yoga at home, it’s a great way to end your day. Yoga while pregnant can help with pain, help you sleep better and fight tiredness and fatigue. \\nHere are some poses you can practice at home to keep you moving! And as a bonus, most of these poses will also help your body prepare for giving birth!\\n1. Bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana) :\\n\\nBaddha Konasana pose will help you open your hips, releasing any pain in your back. It can also help to reduce swelling\\nHow it helps with labor: Opening the hips will help you to stretch the muscles needed to open the birth canal.\\n2. Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana Bitilasana) :\\n\\nMarjaryasana Bitilasana pose release back and shoulder pain and also reduce pressure from the belly\\nHow it helps with labor: Back pain is a common occurrence during the birth process. This pose will help to keep your muscles limber and help to avoid muscle spasms and pain in your back during labor. \\n3. Yogi squat (Malasana) :\\n\\n\\nBeen sitting too long\\n? This is a great hip opener and will also release lower back pain. \\nHow it helps with labor: This pose will widen the pelvic floor making the birth easier,which may help to reduce injury during birth.\\nRemember, if you’re practicing at home, it’s always best to consult your doctor and make sure yoga is safe for your pregnancy.\\n\\nOther ways to practice self-care during pregnancy\\nBeing a mom is the hardest job in the world. And there are no days off. Starting with pregnancy, we feel out of control of our body, its growth and the way we feel. Remember to take time during this beautiful process to practice self-care so you can be present, happy and relaxed. \\nBook a prenatal massage :\n\n⁠⁠A prenatal massage is GREAT for mom and baby. It can help reduce stress and swelling without meds, help you to sleep and get your body ready for labor and delivery. \n⁠ \\nTake a bath :\n⁠\n⁠Taking a warm bath while pregnant can also help to reduce stress and lower your blood pressure. It’s a great way to relax and rest your growing body. If you’re feeling pain or swelling, it can be very beneficial to relax in a warm bath. \n⁠\\n\\nAyurveda for Pregnancy :\\n\n⁠\n⁠This week, MyYogaTeacher has a special Ayurveda event running where you’ll learn how to align with your best self through nutrition and health changes. This specific class is designed to help you have your most healthy pregnancy with nutrition guidelines for a mom and foods to help with baby's development! \\n\nYou can also choose to work 1 on 1 with an instructor of your choice through your MyYogaTeacher membership! Let us help you have your healthiest pregnancy possible! \\n\\nGet started today!\\n"}},{"id":"cl3oy461crk310ckd8rbbvnft","slug":"yoga-poses-for-knee-pain","author":{"name":"Sandhya","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Top 5 Yoga Poses for Knee Pain Relief","createdAt":"2022-05-27T21:18:02.635375+00:00","coverUrl":"pfhb9bugt7fkt4nzvcmw.jpg","content":{"text":"Knee pain affects approximately 20 million people in the United States alone. And that number is going up.\\nOne of the most common reasons I hear from people about why they think they can’t practice yoga is because they have “bad knees.” Arthritis, prior knee injuries, knee surgery or replacement are just a few of the reasons for knee pain.\\nSimilarly to back pain, knee pain can cause significant discomfort and even prevent sufferers from being mobile. This means no exercise.\\nI, like all the other teachers here at MyYogaTeacher, believe yoga is for everyone – even people who have knee pain or extensive problems with their knees. As a matter of fact, the \\nright\\n yoga poses help relieve knee pain.\\nBecause I know that there are so many who suffer from pain in and around their knees, and it negatively impacts their life, I started a Yoga for Knee Pain class at MyYogaTeacher for yogis of all levels and with various different types of knee pain.\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we have members from all walks of life, religions, and all ages, shapes, sizes, and abilities! MyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\nNow, let’s go over the top 5 yoga poses for knee pain relief! You may choose to use some props like a foam roller, bolster, blocks, and/or straps.\\n\\n\\n\\n1. Bridge Pose\\nOne way to alleviate knee pain is to strengthen the muscles around the knee, as well as the muscles that support the bulk of your weight (like your glutes and hamstrings). Bridge pose does both of these!  \\nThis yoga pose also helps realign your spine and pelvis, as misalignment of those areas can cause knee issues.\\nSet up for bridge pose by lying on your back, feet flat on the floor about hip’s distance apart, knees up. Then follow the instructions below:\\nPlace a yoga block between your upper thighs\\nSqueeze the block with your inner thighs\\nLift your legs and core, not by pressing your lumbar spine into the floor\\nContinue to squeeze the block, and hold for 10 breaths\\nRepeat several times\\nDo not turn your head in bridge pose! Keep head and neck in a neutral position\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Chair pose\\nThis is another pose that helps strengthen the quads, hamstrings, and glutes, which will relieve some of the pressure placed on your knees by your total body weight.\\nWhile you’re in chair pose, remember to breathe deeply and keep your knees behind your toes and over your ankles.\\nFrom standing, bend your knees, and sit your hips back, weight in your heels. \\nReach your arms up toward the ceiling, palms facing each other. \\nLift your torso away from your thighs as you lengthen. \\nMaintain the natural curves in your spine. Don’t over arch or tuck your spine under.\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Forward Fold\\nForward folds are sometimes hard for people with knee problems because they don’t do it correctly. But when done with proper guidance, forward folds are a great way to stretch out the muscles in the backs of your legs and release tension in the ligaments and tendons surrounding the knees. \\nForward fold also has many adaptations and doesn’t require a lot of flexibility to do.\\nStanding up straight, slowly fold the body in two at the hips.\\nRoll your spine forward until you’re hanging staring at your shins. \\nLet your knees bend generously if needed. Do not lock them or tighten your quads.\\nBend the spine as much as you can, using a chair for support if necessary.\\nStay there for 10 breaths. Repeat if you want to.\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Modified tree pose\\nAnother aspect of alleviating knee pain with yoga is improving your balance! There are tiny muscles around your ankles and feet (as well as your knees) that don’t get the same amount of exercise and strengthening that some of the bigger muscles do. Balance postures help those muscles and improve balance.\\nAdditionally, balance postures help strengthen your hip muscles, which are also important for supporting your knees.\\nFrom standing, slowly begin to shift weight onto one foot. \\nPlace the ball of the opposite foot on the ground or a block, and turn the knee out so the heel can rest on your ankle or shin.\\nPress into your standing leg and keep the hips level.\\nYou may keep your hands at your heart, by your sides, in the air, or use a chair for support.\\nEventually, you may work to bring the foot up higher on the leg, but never place the foot directly on the knee joint.\\n\\n\\n\\n 5. Supported child’s pose\\nEveryone’s favorite! Child’s pose can be hard on the knees if not done using support from a block, bolster, and/or blanket.\\nWhen modified, child’s pose stretches out the quads and muscles around the knees, releases tension in the hips and back that may cause misalignment, and improves circulation to the knee area.\\nIf you have knee pain from injuries, surgeries, arthritis, or for any other reason, I encourage you to try these poses! And, if you need more guidance I’d love to have you in my Yoga for Knee Pain class on MyYogaTeacher!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\n"}},{"id":"ckqirozc8kydm0a895xrjpijb","slug":"what-is-iyengar-yoga","author":{"name":"My Yoga Teacher","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"What Is Iyengar Yoga: Improve Body Alignment With Long Poses & Props","createdAt":"2021-06-30T00:55:29.016022+00:00","coverUrl":"jc4h9m76ft8o8k6zvblq.jpg","content":{"text":"What Is Iyengar Yoga?\\nIyengar yoga is the practice of pranayama and asanas that's combined to emphasize body alignment, planned sequencing and timing, and the use of props like blocks, straps, bolsters, and benches to support the body.\\n\\nAll types of yoga work through physical postures, meditation, and pranayama to bring balance to the body, mind, and spirit. And Iyengar yoga is no different.\\nIyengar yoga uses precise body alignment supported by various props to give practitioners confidence and courage. It's a methodical yoga practice that is accessible and beneficial to just about anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or health issues.\\nIyengar, unlike Vinyasa, focuses on poses that are held for an extended time instead of flowing through each pose quickly. In fact, there's no flow to Iyengar yoga. Instead, practitioners hold each pose for a length of time, focusing on perfecting alignment.\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nOrigins of Iyengar Yoga\\nThe term \"Iyengar yoga\" is what students of B.K.S. Iyengar began calling his style of yoga in the 1970s to differentiate it from the \\nother styles of yoga\\n.\\nIyengar was born in India in December 1918 and learned yoga from his brother-in-law, T. Krishnamacharya to improve his health. Iyengar started teaching yoga himself in 1936 but it wasn't until 1975 that the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute was founded in Pune, India. This was the precursor to the founding of the Iyengar Yoga Institute in 1982, in London.\\nCertified Iyengar Yoga Teachers must complete rigorous training to earn the right to describe their instruction as Iyengar Yoga.\\nBenefits of Iyengar Yoga\\nIyengar yoga, like all styles of yoga, offers several benefits. Here are a few of the predominant benefits you can expect:\\nImproved Alignment\\nIyengar yoga prioritizes proper alignment over moving deeper into a pose. This emphasis on alignment helps practitioners relieve pain, adjusts the spine, and improves muscle and joint health.\\nIncreased Body Awareness\\nThis style of yoga is particularly beneficial with it comes to increasing body awareness, or proprioception. Thanks to the focus on precise alignment and breathing, practitioners are able to better understand how their bodies take up and move in space in a more accurate way.\\nOverall Healing\\nIyengar yoga goes beyond postures. This practice extends into living in a yogic way, meaning living a life that's free from self-harm and harm to others. There's an expectation that practitioners will study and live yoga philosophy and the eight limbs of yoga.\\nWhat to Expect in an Iyengar Class\\n\\nIyengar yoga\\n focuses on three things:\\nAlignment:\\n Props are used to help practitioners get into poses while supporting their bodies and respecting their bodies' boundaries. The emphasis on alignment is intended to help practitioners achieve balance between the mind, body, and spirit without putting their bodies in stressful positions or putting themselves at risk.\\nSequencing:\\n While Iyengar classes don't have a set series that is followed for every class (like Ashtanga does), each class will follow a sequence chosen by the instructor to lead practitioners through a safe progression.\\nTiming:\\n Iyengar prioritizes alignment and stability over flow. This means that the poses will be held for a longer amount of time than you may be used to if you've only ever practiced Vinyasa or power yoga.\\nIyengar Yoga Poses: A Quick Sequence You Can Do at Home\\nThis Iyengar yoga series comes from the Iyengar Yoga Institute of New York:\\nStart in Tadasana and warm up by moving between Tadasana and Urdhva Hastasana three times.\\nFrom Tadasana, move into Urdhva Baddhanguliyasana, interlocking your fingers above your head. Repeat this movement, alternating the interlocking pattern of your fingers.\\nMove into Vrksasana. Alternate sides and repeat.\\nMove into Utthita Trikonasana. Alternate sides and repeat.\\nMove into Utthita Parsvakonasana. Alternate sides and repeat.\\nMove into Parsvottanasana. Alternate sides and repeat.\\nMove into Prasarita Padottanasana. Repeat.\\nMove into Adho Mukha Svanasana. Repeat.\\nMove into Urdhva Prasarita Padasana. Stay here for five minutes.\\nEach of these poses should be held for up to a minute or longer. If you're pressed for time, prioritize repetitions over holding the poses for time.\\nDifferences Between Iyengar and Vinyasa Yoga\\nHere are the key differences between Iyengar yoga and \\nVinyasa yoga\\n:\\nIn Iyengar, postures are held longer. Vinyasa yoga links breath to movement and practitioners flow through poses quickly. Poses in Iyengar are held for up to a minute before practitioners transition (instead of flowing) to the next posture.\\nIyengar emphasizes alignment whereas Vinyasa practitioners are encouraged to be curious and explore the practice on their own.\\nIyengar classes tend to set aside time to discuss \\nyoga philosophy\\n and cues tend to be given in Sanskrit. This isn't as common in a Vinyasa class.\\nIn Iyengar, sequences are put together with the intent of preparing practitioners for each progressive pose.\\nDifferences Between Iyengar and Ashtanga Yoga\\nHere are the key differences between Iyengar and \\nAshtanga\\n:\\nAshtanga connects movement with Ujjayi breath and is meant to increase the heart rate and make practitioners sweat.\\nAshtanga uses a set series of poses that don't vary, no matter who is leading the class.\\nAshtanga focuses on cleansing and purifying whereas Iyengar focuses on alignment.\\nStart Your Iyengar Yoga Practice With myYogaTeacher\\nAnyone can practice Iyengar. Thanks to the focus on alignment and the use of props, it's perfect for those of us who want to start practicing yoga but might have physical limitations. Of course, that doesn't mean Iyengar is easy. You'll probably still break a sweat and start feeling the burn in your muscles.\\nIf you're interested in starting your Iyengar practice, we invite you to \\nsign up for a free two-week trial of myYogaTeacher\\n. With myYogaTeacher, you'll get access to 40+ live online classes every single day, each led by highly experienced Indian teachers.\\nEach Iyengar Yoga class follows a unique sequence that focuses on one or two parts of the body. You'll learn to pay close attention to anatomical details and alignment of each pose as well as how to modify each pose with props like belts, blocks, pillows, and more to cultivate strength, flexibility, stability, and awareness."}}],"blogContent":{"id":"ckp73576w0lwi0b842405yzde","slug":"prenatal-yoga-benefits","author":{"name":"Supriya","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"5 Reasons to Choose Prenatal Yoga Over “Regular” Yoga When You’re Pregnant","createdAt":"2021-05-27T16:03:05.827253+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-04-04T14:26:41.521628+00:00","coverUrl":"sbmgxyrxu4ntwvoqxuyy.jpg","seoDescription":"Learn how prenatal yoga benefits you and your baby! Prenatal yoga is becoming more and more popular for expectant mothers.","content":{"text":"I am in no way saying prenatal yoga is for “irregular” people or that being pregnant makes you an irregular person.\\n\\nBut when it comes to distinguishing between prenatal yoga practices and other types of yoga, I’ve found that many people use the phrase “regular yoga.” So for the purpose of this article, that’s the phrase I’ll use!\\n\\nPregnancy is such a beautiful thing. Miraculous!\\n\\nIt is always amazing to me that the female human body can create and grow another human. The changes that come along with pregnancy? Not always so amazing.\\n\\nYoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to alleviate some of those yucky pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and lower back pain. But not all regular yoga poses are meant for pregnant women.\\n\\nThat’s why I chose to start a \\nPrenatal Yoga class with myYogaTeacher!\\n My class is specifically designed for expectant mothers. It’s not just a modified “regular” yoga class. The Prenatal Yoga class addresses many of the changes and challenges that result from being pregnant.\\n\\nIf you’re not an MYT member yet, please join us! You get access to 35+ different group classes every day, taught by experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! \\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nIn the meantime, let’s talk about why it’s important to choose an actual prenatal yoga class taught by someone experienced in yoga for pregnant women instead of a regular or more traditional yoga class.\\n\\n1. A prenatal yoga class will not require you to lie on your back or belly like most regular yoga classes will.\\n\\nIt may sound pretty obvious to you that lying on your belly at any point during pregnancy isn’t healthy for you or the baby.\\n\\nPlus, it’s certainly not going to be comfortable!\\n\\nLying flat on your back during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is also not recommended. The weight of the baby and your uterus puts pressure directly on your back, spine, intestines, and vena cava – the main vein that carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from your lower body.\\n\\nMany poses in traditional yoga classes require you to lie flat on your back and stomach. These should be completely eliminated from a yoga practice for pregnant women.\\n\\n2. Prenatal yoga will not include advanced inversion poses or arm balances.\\n\\nFirst of all, if you’ve never had any experience doing inversions, while you’re pregnant is not the best time to learn.\\n\\nEven if you have, inversions and arm balances can be potentially dangerous while you’re pregnant, particularly during your second and third trimester. You may not realize it quite so much while you’re standing, but a growing belly and changing hormones can easily throw you off balance, causing injury to you or baby.\\n\\nPrenatal yoga is designed to be safe for pregnant women in every trimester. So you will not ever be asked to do asanas like crow, headstands, chin stands, shoulder stands, or plough pose.\\n\\n3. You will use more props during prenatal yoga than you would in a regular yoga class.\\n\\nGet your gear ready, because you’ll need it! Prenatal yoga helps relieve stress and anxiety as well as many other pregnancy symptoms. \\n\\nSo don’t begin your practice without these items:\\n\\nYoga straps\\nBlocks\\nYoga bolster (or couch cushion, several folded blankets or pillows)\\nA body pillow\\nYoga knee pad\\nThicker yoga mat\\nOptional: Wide foam wedge\\n\\nBeing in the middle of a yoga practice and not having everything you need can be stressful. Which is the exact opposite of what yoga is supposed to be. You may even need a chair for stability during standing poses. So have one nearby!\\n\\n\\n4. Your prenatal yoga class will never be hot.\\n\\nIf you’re taking it with me at myYogaTeacher, you’ll obviously be able to adjust the temperature of your yoga space to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. \\n\\nThat’s one of the glorious things about virtual yoga!\\n\\nPrenatal yoga should not ever be done in a hot space, whether it’s a room or outside. Hot yoga can cause hyperthermia (not hypOthermia). This is when your body’s internal temperature is 104 degrees or higher.\\n\\nThis is extremely dangerous for expectant mother and baby!\\n\\n5. Prenatal core work is done very differently.\\n\\nI mentioned earlier that lying on your back during pregnancy isn’t recommended, particularly during the second and third trimesters.\\n\\nThat means that prenatal yoga core work is performed very differently.\\n\\nTypically, I try to incorporate core work into the prenatal asanas, but we also do core work standing up and on our hands and knees. This allows expectant mothers to safely strengthen their abdominal muscles during pregnancy.\\n\\nHaving a strong core is really important, but especially when you’re pregnant. It protects your back, helps support your growing belly, and helps you recover from pregnancy more quickly after giving birth.\\n\\n\\nI encourage you to regularly participate in yoga when you’re pregnant. It is generally considered safe unless you have high or low blood pressure or are having a high risk pregnancy. \\n\\nBenefits of prenatal yoga include:\\n\\nImproved sleep\\nBetter/more stable mood\\nRelief of aches and pains\\nImproved circulation\\nEasier childbirth\\nFaster recovery from childbirth\\nBuild strength and stamina \\n\\nWe’d love to have you join us in my \\nPrenatal Yoga Class! \\nWe’re not just there for yoga. We’re there to support one another during this huge transition in your life – and your body!\\n\\nIf you haven’t jumped on the virtual yoga bandwagon yet, it’s really easy to try it out with myYogaTeacher! \\nSign up for your 2-week free trial here and get access to the many wonderful classes MYT has to offer! \\n","html":"<p>I am in no way saying prenatal yoga is for “irregular” people or that being pregnant makes you an irregular person.</p><p></p><p>But when it comes to distinguishing between prenatal yoga practices and other types of yoga, I’ve found that many people use the phrase “regular yoga.” So for the purpose of this article, that’s the phrase I’ll use!</p><p></p><p>Pregnancy is such a beautiful thing. Miraculous!</p><p></p><p>It is always amazing to me that the female human body can create and grow another human. The changes that come along with pregnancy? Not always so amazing.</p><p></p><p>Yoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to alleviate some of those yucky pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and lower back pain. But not all regular yoga poses are meant for pregnant women.</p><p></p><p>That’s why I chose to start a <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga class with myYogaTeacher!</a> My class is specifically designed for expectant mothers. It’s not just a modified “regular” yoga class. The Prenatal Yoga class addresses many of the changes and challenges that result from being pregnant.</p><p></p><p>If you’re not an MYT member yet, please join us! You get access to 35+ different group classes every day, taught by experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! </p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><p>In the meantime, let’s talk about why it’s important to choose an actual prenatal yoga class taught by someone experienced in yoga for pregnant women instead of a regular or more traditional yoga class.</p><p></p><h2>1. A prenatal yoga class will not require you to lie on your back or belly like most regular yoga classes will.</h2><p></p><p>It may sound pretty obvious to you that lying on your belly at any point during pregnancy isn’t healthy for you or the baby.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s certainly not going to be comfortable!</p><p></p><p>Lying flat on your back during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is also not recommended. The weight of the baby and your uterus puts pressure directly on your back, spine, intestines, and vena cava – the main vein that carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from your lower body.</p><p></p><p>Many poses in traditional yoga classes require you to lie flat on your back and stomach. These should be completely eliminated from a yoga practice for pregnant women.</p><p></p><h2>2. Prenatal yoga will not include advanced inversion poses or arm balances.</h2><p></p><p>First of all, if you’ve never had any experience doing inversions, while you’re pregnant is not the best time to learn.</p><p></p><p>Even if you have, inversions and arm balances can be potentially dangerous while you’re pregnant, particularly during your second and third trimester. You may not realize it quite so much while you’re standing, but a growing belly and changing hormones can easily throw you off balance, causing injury to you or baby.</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga is designed to be safe for pregnant women in every trimester. So you will not ever be asked to do asanas like crow, headstands, chin stands, shoulder stands, or plough pose.</p><p></p><h2>3. You will use more props during prenatal yoga than you would in a regular yoga class.</h2><p></p><p>Get your gear ready, because you’ll need it! Prenatal yoga helps relieve stress and anxiety as well as many other pregnancy symptoms. </p><p></p><p>So don’t begin your practice without these items:</p><p></p><ul><li><div>Yoga straps</div></li><li><div>Blocks</div></li><li><div>Yoga bolster (or couch cushion, several folded blankets or pillows)</div></li><li><div>A body pillow</div></li><li><div>Yoga knee pad</div></li><li><div>Thicker yoga mat</div></li><li><div>Optional: Wide foam wedge</div></li></ul><p></p><p>Being in the middle of a yoga practice and not having everything you need can be stressful. Which is the exact opposite of what yoga is supposed to be. You may even need a chair for stability during standing poses. So have one nearby!</p><p></p><p></p><h2>4. Your prenatal yoga class will never be hot.</h2><p></p><p>If you’re taking it with me at myYogaTeacher, you’ll obviously be able to adjust the temperature of your yoga space to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. </p><p></p><p>That’s one of the glorious things about virtual yoga!</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga should not ever be done in a hot space, whether it’s a room or outside. Hot yoga can cause hyperthermia (not hypOthermia). This is when your body’s internal temperature is 104 degrees or higher.</p><p></p><p>This is extremely dangerous for expectant mother and baby!</p><p></p><h2>5. Prenatal core work is done very differently.</h2><p></p><p>I mentioned earlier that lying on your back during pregnancy isn’t recommended, particularly during the second and third trimesters.</p><p></p><p>That means that prenatal yoga core work is performed very differently.</p><p></p><p>Typically, I try to incorporate core work into the prenatal asanas, but we also do core work standing up and on our hands and knees. This allows expectant mothers to safely strengthen their abdominal muscles during pregnancy.</p><p></p><p>Having a strong core is really important, but especially when you’re pregnant. It protects your back, helps support your growing belly, and helps you recover from pregnancy more quickly after giving birth.</p><p></p><p></p><p>I encourage you to regularly participate in yoga when you’re pregnant. It is generally considered safe unless you have high or low blood pressure or are having a high risk pregnancy. </p><p></p><p><strong>Benefits of prenatal yoga include:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Improved sleep</div></li><li><div>Better/more stable mood</div></li><li><div>Relief of aches and pains</div></li><li><div>Improved circulation</div></li><li><div>Easier childbirth</div></li><li><div>Faster recovery from childbirth</div></li><li><div>Build strength and stamina </div></li></ul><p></p><p>We’d love to have you join us in my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga Class! </a>We’re not just there for yoga. We’re there to support one another during this huge transition in your life – and your body!</p><p></p><p>If you haven’t jumped on the virtual yoga bandwagon yet, it’s really easy to try it out with myYogaTeacher! <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">Sign up for your 2-week free trial here and get access to the many wonderful classes MYT has to offer! </a></p>"},"category":["fitness"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>I am in no way saying prenatal yoga is for “irregular” people or that being pregnant makes you an irregular person.</p><p></p><p>But when it comes to distinguishing between prenatal yoga practices and other types of yoga, I’ve found that many people use the phrase “regular yoga.” So for the purpose of this article, that’s the phrase I’ll use!</p><p></p><p>Pregnancy is such a beautiful thing. Miraculous!</p><p></p><p>It is always amazing to me that the female human body can create and grow another human. The changes that come along with pregnancy? Not always so amazing.</p><p></p><p>Yoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to alleviate some of those yucky pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and lower back pain. But not all regular yoga poses are meant for pregnant women.</p><p></p><p>That’s why I chose to start a <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga class with myYogaTeacher!</a> My class is specifically designed for expectant mothers. It’s not just a modified “regular” yoga class. The Prenatal Yoga class addresses many of the changes and challenges that result from being pregnant.</p><p></p><p>If you’re not an MYT member yet, please join us! You get access to 35+ different group classes every day, taught by experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! </p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"},{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>In the meantime, let’s talk about why it’s important to choose an actual prenatal yoga class taught by someone experienced in yoga for pregnant women instead of a regular or more traditional yoga class.</p><p></p><h2>1. A prenatal yoga class will not require you to lie on your back or belly like most regular yoga classes will.</h2><p></p><p>It may sound pretty obvious to you that lying on your belly at any point during pregnancy isn’t healthy for you or the baby.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s certainly not going to be comfortable!</p><p></p><p>Lying flat on your back during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is also not recommended. The weight of the baby and your uterus puts pressure directly on your back, spine, intestines, and vena cava – the main vein that carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from your lower body.</p><p></p><p>Many poses in traditional yoga classes require you to lie flat on your back and stomach. These should be completely eliminated from a yoga practice for pregnant women.</p><p></p><h2>2. Prenatal yoga will not include advanced inversion poses or arm balances.</h2><p></p><p>First of all, if you’ve never had any experience doing inversions, while you’re pregnant is not the best time to learn.</p><p></p><p>Even if you have, inversions and arm balances can be potentially dangerous while you’re pregnant, particularly during your second and third trimester. You may not realize it quite so much while you’re standing, but a growing belly and changing hormones can easily throw you off balance, causing injury to you or baby.</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga is designed to be safe for pregnant women in every trimester. So you will not ever be asked to do asanas like crow, headstands, chin stands, shoulder stands, or plough pose.</p><p></p><h2>3. You will use more props during prenatal yoga than you would in a regular yoga class.</h2><p></p><p>Get your gear ready, because you’ll need it! Prenatal yoga helps relieve stress and anxiety as well as many other pregnancy symptoms. </p><p></p><p>So don’t begin your practice without these items:</p><p></p><ul><li><div>Yoga straps</div></li><li><div>Blocks</div></li><li><div>Yoga bolster (or couch cushion, several folded blankets or pillows)</div></li><li><div>A body pillow</div></li><li><div>Yoga knee pad</div></li><li><div>Thicker yoga mat</div></li><li><div>Optional: Wide foam wedge</div></li></ul><p></p><p>Being in the middle of a yoga practice and not having everything you need can be stressful. Which is the exact opposite of what yoga is supposed to be. You may even need a chair for stability during standing poses. So have one nearby!</p><p></p><p></p><h2>4. Your prenatal yoga class will never be hot.</h2><p></p><p>If you’re taking it with me at myYogaTeacher, you’ll obviously be able to adjust the temperature of your yoga space to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. </p><p></p><p>That’s one of the glorious things about virtual yoga!</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga should not ever be done in a hot space, whether it’s a room or outside. Hot yoga can cause hyperthermia (not hypOthermia). This is when your body’s internal temperature is 104 degrees or higher.</p><p></p><p>This is extremely dangerous for expectant mother and baby!</p><p></p><h2>5. Prenatal core work is done very differently.</h2><p></p><p>I mentioned earlier that lying on your back during pregnancy isn’t recommended, particularly during the second and third trimesters.</p><p></p><p>That means that prenatal yoga core work is performed very differently.</p><p></p><p>Typically, I try to incorporate core work into the prenatal asanas, but we also do core work standing up and on our hands and knees. This allows expectant mothers to safely strengthen their abdominal muscles during pregnancy.</p><p></p><p>Having a strong core is really important, but especially when you’re pregnant. It protects your back, helps support your growing belly, and helps you recover from pregnancy more quickly after giving birth.</p><p></p><p></p><p>I encourage you to regularly participate in yoga when you’re pregnant. It is generally considered safe unless you have high or low blood pressure or are having a high risk pregnancy. </p><p></p><p><strong>Benefits of prenatal yoga include:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Improved sleep</div></li><li><div>Better/more stable mood</div></li><li><div>Relief of aches and pains</div></li><li><div>Improved circulation</div></li><li><div>Easier childbirth</div></li><li><div>Faster recovery from childbirth</div></li><li><div>Build strength and stamina </div></li></ul><p></p><p>We’d love to have you join us in my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga Class! </a>We’re not just there for yoga. We’re there to support one another during this huge transition in your life – and your body!</p><p></p><p>If you haven’t jumped on the virtual yoga bandwagon yet, it’s really easy to try it out with myYogaTeacher! <a\n            class=\"inline-cta\"\n            id=b236926a-f0bc-44ce-92ed-bfcb670b0c39\n            href=\"/signup?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckp73576w0lwi0b842405yzde&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=5 Reasons to Choose Prenatal Yoga Over “Regular” Yoga When You’re Pregnant&entity_slug=prenatal-yoga-benefits&page_or_popup=/articles/prenatal-yoga-benefits&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n            onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"b236926a-f0bc-44ce-92ed-bfcb670b0c39\")\n            title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n            data-title=\"5 Reasons to Choose Prenatal Yoga Over “Regular” Yoga When You’re Pregnant\"\n            data-slug=\"prenatal-yoga-benefits\"\n            <u>Sign up for your 2-week free trial here and get access to the many wonderful classes MYT has to offer! </a></u>        \n            </a></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"prenatal-yoga-benefits","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"signup","redirectURL":"#","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Therapy – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Back Pain Safely &amp; Effectively Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitki4w2liz0b30tqpzhy4i","name":"[CTA-KRIYA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for Kriya Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation <strong>and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions –  </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage &amp; Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"ckp73576w0lwi0b842405yzde","slug":"prenatal-yoga-benefits","author":{"name":"Supriya","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"5 Reasons to Choose Prenatal Yoga Over “Regular” Yoga When You’re Pregnant","createdAt":"2021-05-27T16:03:05.827253+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-04-04T14:26:41.521628+00:00","coverUrl":"sbmgxyrxu4ntwvoqxuyy.jpg","seoDescription":"Learn how prenatal yoga benefits you and your baby! Prenatal yoga is becoming more and more popular for expectant mothers.","content":{"text":"I am in no way saying prenatal yoga is for “irregular” people or that being pregnant makes you an irregular person.\\n\\nBut when it comes to distinguishing between prenatal yoga practices and other types of yoga, I’ve found that many people use the phrase “regular yoga.” So for the purpose of this article, that’s the phrase I’ll use!\\n\\nPregnancy is such a beautiful thing. Miraculous!\\n\\nIt is always amazing to me that the female human body can create and grow another human. The changes that come along with pregnancy? Not always so amazing.\\n\\nYoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to alleviate some of those yucky pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and lower back pain. But not all regular yoga poses are meant for pregnant women.\\n\\nThat’s why I chose to start a \\nPrenatal Yoga class with myYogaTeacher!\\n My class is specifically designed for expectant mothers. It’s not just a modified “regular” yoga class. The Prenatal Yoga class addresses many of the changes and challenges that result from being pregnant.\\n\\nIf you’re not an MYT member yet, please join us! You get access to 35+ different group classes every day, taught by experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! \\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nIn the meantime, let’s talk about why it’s important to choose an actual prenatal yoga class taught by someone experienced in yoga for pregnant women instead of a regular or more traditional yoga class.\\n\\n1. A prenatal yoga class will not require you to lie on your back or belly like most regular yoga classes will.\\n\\nIt may sound pretty obvious to you that lying on your belly at any point during pregnancy isn’t healthy for you or the baby.\\n\\nPlus, it’s certainly not going to be comfortable!\\n\\nLying flat on your back during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is also not recommended. The weight of the baby and your uterus puts pressure directly on your back, spine, intestines, and vena cava – the main vein that carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from your lower body.\\n\\nMany poses in traditional yoga classes require you to lie flat on your back and stomach. These should be completely eliminated from a yoga practice for pregnant women.\\n\\n2. Prenatal yoga will not include advanced inversion poses or arm balances.\\n\\nFirst of all, if you’ve never had any experience doing inversions, while you’re pregnant is not the best time to learn.\\n\\nEven if you have, inversions and arm balances can be potentially dangerous while you’re pregnant, particularly during your second and third trimester. You may not realize it quite so much while you’re standing, but a growing belly and changing hormones can easily throw you off balance, causing injury to you or baby.\\n\\nPrenatal yoga is designed to be safe for pregnant women in every trimester. So you will not ever be asked to do asanas like crow, headstands, chin stands, shoulder stands, or plough pose.\\n\\n3. You will use more props during prenatal yoga than you would in a regular yoga class.\\n\\nGet your gear ready, because you’ll need it! Prenatal yoga helps relieve stress and anxiety as well as many other pregnancy symptoms. \\n\\nSo don’t begin your practice without these items:\\n\\nYoga straps\\nBlocks\\nYoga bolster (or couch cushion, several folded blankets or pillows)\\nA body pillow\\nYoga knee pad\\nThicker yoga mat\\nOptional: Wide foam wedge\\n\\nBeing in the middle of a yoga practice and not having everything you need can be stressful. Which is the exact opposite of what yoga is supposed to be. You may even need a chair for stability during standing poses. So have one nearby!\\n\\n\\n4. Your prenatal yoga class will never be hot.\\n\\nIf you’re taking it with me at myYogaTeacher, you’ll obviously be able to adjust the temperature of your yoga space to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. \\n\\nThat’s one of the glorious things about virtual yoga!\\n\\nPrenatal yoga should not ever be done in a hot space, whether it’s a room or outside. Hot yoga can cause hyperthermia (not hypOthermia). This is when your body’s internal temperature is 104 degrees or higher.\\n\\nThis is extremely dangerous for expectant mother and baby!\\n\\n5. Prenatal core work is done very differently.\\n\\nI mentioned earlier that lying on your back during pregnancy isn’t recommended, particularly during the second and third trimesters.\\n\\nThat means that prenatal yoga core work is performed very differently.\\n\\nTypically, I try to incorporate core work into the prenatal asanas, but we also do core work standing up and on our hands and knees. This allows expectant mothers to safely strengthen their abdominal muscles during pregnancy.\\n\\nHaving a strong core is really important, but especially when you’re pregnant. It protects your back, helps support your growing belly, and helps you recover from pregnancy more quickly after giving birth.\\n\\n\\nI encourage you to regularly participate in yoga when you’re pregnant. It is generally considered safe unless you have high or low blood pressure or are having a high risk pregnancy. \\n\\nBenefits of prenatal yoga include:\\n\\nImproved sleep\\nBetter/more stable mood\\nRelief of aches and pains\\nImproved circulation\\nEasier childbirth\\nFaster recovery from childbirth\\nBuild strength and stamina \\n\\nWe’d love to have you join us in my \\nPrenatal Yoga Class! \\nWe’re not just there for yoga. We’re there to support one another during this huge transition in your life – and your body!\\n\\nIf you haven’t jumped on the virtual yoga bandwagon yet, it’s really easy to try it out with myYogaTeacher! \\nSign up for your 2-week free trial here and get access to the many wonderful classes MYT has to offer! \\n","html":"<p>I am in no way saying prenatal yoga is for “irregular” people or that being pregnant makes you an irregular person.</p><p></p><p>But when it comes to distinguishing between prenatal yoga practices and other types of yoga, I’ve found that many people use the phrase “regular yoga.” So for the purpose of this article, that’s the phrase I’ll use!</p><p></p><p>Pregnancy is such a beautiful thing. Miraculous!</p><p></p><p>It is always amazing to me that the female human body can create and grow another human. The changes that come along with pregnancy? Not always so amazing.</p><p></p><p>Yoga during pregnancy is an excellent way to alleviate some of those yucky pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and lower back pain. But not all regular yoga poses are meant for pregnant women.</p><p></p><p>That’s why I chose to start a <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga class with myYogaTeacher!</a> My class is specifically designed for expectant mothers. It’s not just a modified “regular” yoga class. The Prenatal Yoga class addresses many of the changes and challenges that result from being pregnant.</p><p></p><p>If you’re not an MYT member yet, please join us! You get access to 35+ different group classes every day, taught by experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! </p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><p>In the meantime, let’s talk about why it’s important to choose an actual prenatal yoga class taught by someone experienced in yoga for pregnant women instead of a regular or more traditional yoga class.</p><p></p><h2>1. A prenatal yoga class will not require you to lie on your back or belly like most regular yoga classes will.</h2><p></p><p>It may sound pretty obvious to you that lying on your belly at any point during pregnancy isn’t healthy for you or the baby.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s certainly not going to be comfortable!</p><p></p><p>Lying flat on your back during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is also not recommended. The weight of the baby and your uterus puts pressure directly on your back, spine, intestines, and vena cava – the main vein that carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from your lower body.</p><p></p><p>Many poses in traditional yoga classes require you to lie flat on your back and stomach. These should be completely eliminated from a yoga practice for pregnant women.</p><p></p><h2>2. Prenatal yoga will not include advanced inversion poses or arm balances.</h2><p></p><p>First of all, if you’ve never had any experience doing inversions, while you’re pregnant is not the best time to learn.</p><p></p><p>Even if you have, inversions and arm balances can be potentially dangerous while you’re pregnant, particularly during your second and third trimester. You may not realize it quite so much while you’re standing, but a growing belly and changing hormones can easily throw you off balance, causing injury to you or baby.</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga is designed to be safe for pregnant women in every trimester. So you will not ever be asked to do asanas like crow, headstands, chin stands, shoulder stands, or plough pose.</p><p></p><h2>3. You will use more props during prenatal yoga than you would in a regular yoga class.</h2><p></p><p>Get your gear ready, because you’ll need it! Prenatal yoga helps relieve stress and anxiety as well as many other pregnancy symptoms. </p><p></p><p>So don’t begin your practice without these items:</p><p></p><ul><li><div>Yoga straps</div></li><li><div>Blocks</div></li><li><div>Yoga bolster (or couch cushion, several folded blankets or pillows)</div></li><li><div>A body pillow</div></li><li><div>Yoga knee pad</div></li><li><div>Thicker yoga mat</div></li><li><div>Optional: Wide foam wedge</div></li></ul><p></p><p>Being in the middle of a yoga practice and not having everything you need can be stressful. Which is the exact opposite of what yoga is supposed to be. You may even need a chair for stability during standing poses. So have one nearby!</p><p></p><p></p><h2>4. Your prenatal yoga class will never be hot.</h2><p></p><p>If you’re taking it with me at myYogaTeacher, you’ll obviously be able to adjust the temperature of your yoga space to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. </p><p></p><p>That’s one of the glorious things about virtual yoga!</p><p></p><p>Prenatal yoga should not ever be done in a hot space, whether it’s a room or outside. Hot yoga can cause hyperthermia (not hypOthermia). This is when your body’s internal temperature is 104 degrees or higher.</p><p></p><p>This is extremely dangerous for expectant mother and baby!</p><p></p><h2>5. Prenatal core work is done very differently.</h2><p></p><p>I mentioned earlier that lying on your back during pregnancy isn’t recommended, particularly during the second and third trimesters.</p><p></p><p>That means that prenatal yoga core work is performed very differently.</p><p></p><p>Typically, I try to incorporate core work into the prenatal asanas, but we also do core work standing up and on our hands and knees. This allows expectant mothers to safely strengthen their abdominal muscles during pregnancy.</p><p></p><p>Having a strong core is really important, but especially when you’re pregnant. It protects your back, helps support your growing belly, and helps you recover from pregnancy more quickly after giving birth.</p><p></p><p></p><p>I encourage you to regularly participate in yoga when you’re pregnant. It is generally considered safe unless you have high or low blood pressure or are having a high risk pregnancy. </p><p></p><p><strong>Benefits of prenatal yoga include:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Improved sleep</div></li><li><div>Better/more stable mood</div></li><li><div>Relief of aches and pains</div></li><li><div>Improved circulation</div></li><li><div>Easier childbirth</div></li><li><div>Faster recovery from childbirth</div></li><li><div>Build strength and stamina </div></li></ul><p></p><p>We’d love to have you join us in my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/Prenatal-yoga-by-supriya-1\">Prenatal Yoga Class! </a>We’re not just there for yoga. We’re there to support one another during this huge transition in your life – and your body!</p><p></p><p>If you haven’t jumped on the virtual yoga bandwagon yet, it’s really easy to try it out with myYogaTeacher! <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">Sign up for your 2-week free trial here and get access to the many wonderful classes MYT has to offer! </a></p>"},"category":["fitness"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}