The world of motherhood is exploding with hashtags – #momlife, #mommyhood, #blessed – but one often gets overlooked: #postnatalyoga. While the glamorous world of social media might have you reaching for your pre-pregnancy jeans a week after delivery, listen up mamas: Your body just performed a miracle, and it needs time to heal. This is where POSTNATAL YOGA becomes your BFF.
But wait, when is the “right” time to start exercising after giving birth?
This is a crucial question, and the answer, like most things postpartum, is not a one-size-fits-all. It depends on your delivery, your body, and your doctor’s clearance. Generally, for an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, gentle movement can begin within a few days, while a C-section might require waiting for 6-8 weeks. However, listening to your body is key.
Many new moms are eager to get back in shape and shed those extra pregnancy pounds right after childbirth. But remember, jumping into intense workouts can actually do more harm than good.
From Bump to Birth to Beyond: Embracing Change
Social media is flooded with #fitmom goals, but the pressure to bounce back quickly can be detrimental. Doing the wrong exercises like crunches, sit-ups, heavy lifting, jumping and twisting can worsen your diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles that happens to accommodate your growing baby). This can lead to back pain, pelvic floor issues, and a weaker core in the long run.
During pregnancy, your body produces a symphony of hormones like estrogen and progesterone to support your growing baby, your ligaments loosen due to relaxin hormone to prepare for birth. However, after delivery, these hormones take a nosedive and prolactin hormone, responsible for milk production, surges. This can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and anxiety during your postpartum period.
Listen to your body, mama. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
So, what kind of exercises are safe and beneficial?
This gentle practice focuses on restoring your body after childbirth.
Some targeted postnatal yoga exercises cat-cow, modified plank, pelvic tilts, kegels, gentle stretches and deep mindful breathing practices help strengthen the core, get rid of postpartum backpain, improve pelvic floor health and reduces stress and anxiety.
The magic of Postnatal Yoga.
Postnatal yoga is not just about aesthetics (although feeling good in your own skin is a bonus!). It is about creating a foundation for lifelong strength and well-being. It helps your body heal from the inside out, restores your core, improves flexibility and that post childbirth back pain is gone once for all.
As Michelle Obama aptly said, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.”
Only a healthy, happy and fit mama can create a happier, healthier and fitter family.
Remember, mama, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” (Lao Tzu) Let your first step on your postnatal journey be one of self-compassion. Embrace the power of postnatal yoga, and rediscover your inner #MomStrength. Join our Postnatal Yoga Community!
Embrace the fourth trimester, mama. You’ve got this!
