With the increasing popularity of yoga, many women are aware of the numerous physical benefits of prenatal yoga. Yoga has a particularly positive effect on the stresses and strains that sometimes come with pregnancy. Backache, constipation, indigestion, tiredness and many other complaints are relieved, and sometimes removed, through yoga practice. Smooth pregnancy and a natural childbirth are just some of the benefits of yoga. But more importantly, yoga does wonders on the physical and mental development of the foetus. Ensuring a healthy baby is every woman's dream and yoga helps you do just that. The practices of yoga promote optimum health of body and mind, unifying a mother's physical, emotional and spiritual growth with that of her child.

Pregnancy and labor represent some of the most difficult and rewarding work a woman will ever do. It makes sense to prepare oneself physically. So ignore the myth about not starting new exercises during pregnancy and join a prenatal group even if the pregnancy is already advanced. Prenatal yoga is gentle and safe for all women, whether new to yoga or with years of practice. No previous experience of yoga is necessary to benefit from the lessons. The exercises are easy to follow, and, being specially adapted for each trimester, are suitable for any stage of pregnancy. Very few women should not exercise in pregnancy, but always consult your care provider prior to starting a course.

Every lesson includes one hour of yoga postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation.
Yoga postures gently work on the reproductive organs, pelvic muscles, hips and legs preparing your body for childbirth and ensuring optimum supply of blood and nutrients to the developing foetus. They improve your posture and circulation, keep the body supple and aligned while it changes to accommodate the life within.
Breathing techniques ensure efficient removal of waste products and plentiful supply of oxygen and life force for you and your child. The way you learn to breathe in the classes is extremely helpful for labour, as it helps you to concentrate and leads to relaxation.
Deep relaxation techniques use relaxed awareness of the body to induce relaxation of the mind.
Meditation brings with it an incredible awareness that helps you to connect with your unborn child, to process emotions from the increased hormonal activity and to resolve fears and conflicts, which are so common during pregnancy.
At the end of each class you will go home relaxed, invigorated and optimistic, with more space in your body and your life for your baby and your pregnancy. The course will give you a general sense of well being and an increase in confidence as you approach the birth of your baby. Here is response from women who took prenatal yoga lessons.

If you would like to register for the course, you need to fill in the application-form and pay a tuition fee. I ask for a commitment, and places are paid for at the beginning of the course. If you have any doubts, you are welcome to try one lesson first.

To maximize your yoga experience please follow the regulations & suggestions:

* You can start attending prenatal classes as early in your pregnancy as you like. However, if you are experiencing morning sickness it may be better to start a yoga regimen after it has passed, which is usually in the second trimester.

* As with any exercise program it is best to consult your practitioner before beginning. If you are considered high risk or have any health problems, make sure to seek medical advice first.

* Don't eat right before class as food in your stomach makes practice harder. To meet the needs of your changing metabolism, you might want to have a light snack about an hour before class.

* Drink a lot of water during the day, but make sure your belly and bladder are empty when class starts. Drinking water during yoga practice is not recommended as it may affect your subtle energies. During yoga, toxins get stirred up and are just waiting to be flushed out, therefore you should drink plenty of water after class.

* Wear loose, lightweight clothing, preferably made of cotton, which will not restrict your movement. Yoga is always practiced barefoot. No perfumes, watches or jewelry, please.

* Bring your yoga mat with you if you have one. Have a shawl or blanket and a big towel to keep you warm during relaxation and meditation, as well as two cushions, which would be used for certain poses. (Mats are available in the studio)

* Give yourself plenty of time to get to class and acclimatize. It's best to arrive 5 minutes early. Don't be late!

* We need a quiet place to practice. Turn off any mobile phones please.

* Put the events of the day aside and create a little yoga oasis for yourself. Be attentive and focused on what you are doing and how you are feeling. If you find your mind is wandering or distracted, gently bring it back to your practice.

* Throughout pregnancy the body produces a hormone called relaxin, which is intended to soften your bones and ligaments to make room for the baby and prepare for birth. This softening of the ligaments can make them vulnerable to over stretching. Try to avoid going too far into poses because an over stretched ligament is a serious injury that will not easily heal.

* Be patient with yourself. Don't compare yourself to others. Listen to your body, and go at your own pace. If you feel any discomfort or pain, stop.

* Be sure to let the teacher know how you feel. Be open to corrections from the teacher, whether verbal or hands-on. Take all corrections in the spirit of friendly guidance. Feel free to ask any questions and give your feedback during or after lessons.

* Be positive. Enjoy your pregnancy and the course!

Wishing you a relaxed and healthy pregnancy~