While undergoing the changes occurring throughout pregnancy and postpartum, movement is a key piece to support mental and physical health. Intentional movement increases the mind-body connection to the core, pelvic floor, and breath and keeps the body functioning at its best. Classes, such as Prenatal Yoga, offer community building and support. Furthermore, moving in general is important for birth preparation and recovery, as it keeps up endurance and restores capability and capacity.
Our bodies change a lot during these processes, and these changes include increased oxygen and cardiovascular output, lower blood pressure, higher blood volume, higher heart rate, organ and muscular shifting, and increased relaxin and other hormones. More relaxin means more mobility with less stability or control over this new range of motion. This is where resistance training becomes important. It allows expecting parents to increase strength and control in their growing, changing bodies.
Aside from the physical benefits of structured movement, attending a class or training session also benefits psychological health, encouraging stress relief, pain and discomfort management, technical and proper breathing, offering a system of support, external referrals, and far more. People who are active in pregnancy have an easier and shorter delivery, less need for medical interventions, and see an increase in health and intelligence in their children.
A typical Prenatal Yoga class at The Well Studio will include about 10 minutes of “circle time” where we hear from each student what is present for them in terms of mood, energy, symptoms, sensations, etc. This is unhurried and is arguably the most important section of the class. After that, we ground and breathe to set intentions and connect to the self. Movement lasts between 25-30 minutes, and the last part of class is spent in pregnancy-friendly restorative postures and a supported Savasana. Folks are encouraged to speak to each other and use their time together the way they need. Postpartum students and those trying to conceive are always welcome in the space.
Prenatal and postpartum personal training and private Yoga both focus on birth preparation, core stability and recovery, pelvic floor activations and relaxation, breath techniques, functional and relevant movements, considered activities of daily living, and personalized exercises that are tailored to the client. No matter what, the experience must be enjoyable and supportive of a client’s goals and needs.
My aim as a perinatal exercise specialist is to decrease anxiety, fear, discomfort, pain, and confusion and increase confidence, strength, knowledge, comfort, and preparedness. Whether my client is trying to conceive, newly pregnant, nearing their delivery date, two months postpartum, or ten years in, they have me in their corner and ready to offer all my support and care along their journey to full-being wellness.
Interested in getting started or learning more? Reach out to me (laura@wellstudiodublin.com) at The Well Studio! We can do a complimentary introduction to pull together a high-level plan to help you get started, or keep going.
The Well Studio in Dublin, CA has created an inclusive community and supportive environment that meets you where you are.
