Michelle Egan Pregnancy Yoga Teacher
Michelle has been teaching Pregnancy Yoga in our Center in Bray, near Dublin since we opened in 2009. See Pregnancy Yoga. From Wednesday 5th September 2012 Michelle will also be teaching our new Drop In Yoga Class at 6pm.
Here’s Michelle talking about her Pregnancy Yoga Class…
I began my pregnancy yoga while pregnant myself with my daughter Kate (now 7). At the time, I was keen to continue my own yoga practice and keep active while at the same time prepare my body for both childbirth and beyond. I was amazed how fantastic and relaxed I felt after a yoga class and how the physical stretching and opening relaxed my body and made carrying baby so much easier. This is how I like my mum’s to feel after our yoga class and we work together to strengthen up lower back, loosen shoulders and correct posture. You can work to your own level during class and each week ends with relaxation. No experience necessary.
My mum’s often ask me how many prenatal classes they should take?
Pregnancy yoga is enjoyable and it is time out for you and your baby. Beginning earlier in your pregnancy is beneficial because you will improve over time, relax more and feel more confident in your blooming self. The emphasis in my classes is not yoga for birth but for yoga during pregnancy and beyond. There are women in my classes from 14 weeks to 40.
Pregnancy Yoga at 21st Zentury Health….
Wednesday Evenings at 7.15pm -
New Course Beginning in 5th January 2012
Booking essential, small booking deposit secures place. Email info@21zenturyhealth.com or Call 01-2761840 to book your place.
Drop In Adult Yoga Class
Wednesday Evenings at 6pm, from 5th Sept 2012. Welcome to use a Class Pass for this Drop In Class, no need to book, just turn up.. See our Price List Here
Benefits of Yoga for pregnancy
Every pregnancy is different and yoga practices can be adapted to fit the needs of each individual.
Regular practice of yoga breathing techniques, relaxation, meditation and gentle posture work support the mother during the stages of her pregnancy. This results in increased confidence, strength, stamina and skills to cope with the demands of labor. See below for some more yoga tips for pregnancy.
The first trimester
• During the first three months of pregnancy care must be taken to allow the pregnancy to stabilise.
• Relaxation, meditation, simple breath work are recommended for this trimester especially for those new to yoga. These techniques help women to cope with the possible side effects of pregnancy e.g. tiredness, nausea…
• Women who have been practising yoga for some time may be able to continue a normal asana practice, adapting the pace and the posture work to their needs.
The second trimester
• During the second three months, most women enjoy a new burst of energy and will find yoga postures useful to strengthen the body and improve posture and stamina. Classic yoga postures need to be adapted to avoid constricting the baby or straining the mother.
• Relaxation, visualisation, meditation and simple breath work continue to be of value to conserve energy in the mother and develop the bond with the growing baby.
• During the second and the last three months of pregnancy, women practising yoga find the need to use cushions and props to allow them to be comfortable during posture work relaxation etc.
The third trimester
• During the last trimester the pace must be gentle with emphasis on preparing for the impending birth. It is advisable for her birthing partner to work with the mother in order to know how to support her during the delivery.
• A good yoga teacher will explore positions that will help the mother ride out contractions with breathing skills that support them and make delivery easier.