What is Mom & Baby Yoga?

You did it! You have nurtured your baby through pregnancy and have given birth to a beautiful baby– congratulations! Mom & baby yoga classes provide an opportunity for you to regain strength and flexibility, to bond with your baby in an enjoyable activity and to connect and network with other moms.

 

The focus of the class is a series of warm-ups and yoga postures designed specifically for a new mom. Special attention is placed on developing correct posture to combat the stress on your body and back caused by poor posture during the feeding, lifting and carrying of your baby. This includes a particular emphasis on strengthening the back, abdomen and pelvic floor, as well as relieving tension in areas such as the neck, shoulders and back. No previous yoga experience is required.

 

What do the babies do?

Throughout the class, you will have the option of involving your baby in the movements, by holding him or her, or by having your baby close to you on your blanket. The babies are also treated to a short session of gentle baby yoga and massage, allowing them to share in the benefits of the class, including the relief of common discomforts.

 

What is the class like?

The tone of the class is gentle in order to accommodate the effects of your recent pregnancy, such as reduced joint stability and core strength. The class is suitable for beginners to yoga, as well as those who have practiced yoga before. Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace, either more gently or more intensively. The class is very informal and lively, and there is absolutely no pressure or expectation for your baby to “behave” in a certain way!

 

Throughout the class, moms stop to feed or soothe their babies and rejoin the movements when it is possible and comfortable to do so. There is time after each class to connect with the other women, and to share the experiences and insights of raising a little one!

 

When can I start and how long can I continue?

It is a good idea to wait until your baby reaches six (6) weeks old before attending class. (If you had a caesarian delivery this time should be extended to about 8-10 weeks, or until you receive the go-ahead from your doctor). Once your baby begins to actively crawl and move about (often at 9 months), it will become much more difficult for you to participate in the class. Therefore, the fee will be pro-rated if your baby reaches 8 months of age before the end of the session, or begins to actively crawl before that time!

 

There is absolutely no problem with joining the class after the session has begun (space permitting), the movements are simple and it is easy to catch on.

 

What to bring: mat, pillow(s), blanket (or something familiar to baby), water.