Congratulations on your pregnancy! My name is Tonya and I have been teaching prenatal yoga in Whangarei for over 10 years. It is an honour to share this special time with you. The class focus is to create time and space for you to connect with your changing body and growing baby, to use movement and breath to help ease some of the discomforts associated with pregnancy and help prepare you for birthday.
You’ll also learn some great relaxation techniques and meet some great other mums to be!
Prenatal Yoga classes are held every Monday evening at 5.45pm at Yoga Circle, 26 Central Ave (opposite Mander Park), Whangarei. Email or call Tonya 021 056 4954 today to book your place. Don’t miss out!
Pregnancy Yoga Questions
Over the years I have had many questions about starting yoga in pregnancy here are the most common. If you have any other questions please feel free to call me. I am happy to talk with you .
I’ve never done yoga before does that matter?
Most people who come to prenatal yoga begin because they are pregnant. Everyone’s experience of pregnancy is different and changes over the different stages. The class is tailored toward this, with always various options for the poses offered. You are always encouraged to work at your own pace.
When can I start my yoga classes?
Any time after 12 weeks. It’s strongly advisable to check with your midwife first. Most women continue coming to class till between 34-36 weeks.
My midwife has suggested I do certain exercises. Can we incorporate these into the class?
Yes, if there are certain positions that you have been told will benefit you and baby, simply let me know at the start of class.
My midwife or health professional has suggested I avoid certain exercises, including some yoga poses.
There are some yoga poses that should be avoided in pregnancy you will not find these in the prenatal class. However, sometimes, people have things going on which means they need to avoid certain movements. In such instances, you will be offered a safe alternative or a resting posture. Remember, yoga is about working in harmony with your body and breath. It’s important we learn to listen to what is right for us especially in this life stage.
What do I need to bring? And what should I wear?
All mats and blankets are provided so simply come along in comfortable clothing.
Benefits of Yoga in Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth provide enough shape – shifting for most of us, and if you’re expecting, the idea of contorting your body probably isn’t a priority. However, Yoga presents us with a collection of breathing and gentle exercises that strengthen the entire body during pregnancy and assists in the preparation and recovery of birth day. Trained in hypnosis Tonya incorporates the benefits of hypnotherapy into the guided relaxations to assist you with creating positive birth experiences. In addition to this, you get to share your pregnancy with other women in the same life stage and create some really wonderful friendships.
Body Knowledge
Yoga is a wonderful tool for becoming better acquainted with your body. A regular practice trains you to focus on different areas of your body, which is particularly helpful with, all the changes pregnancy brings, on birthday and beyond.
Breathing
Yoga’s emphasis on breathing and moving simultaneously helps you breathe more deeply increasing oxygen supply for you and your baby. Increased oxygen promotes feelings of deep relaxation and well being. The calmer and more relaxed we are as parents are, the calmer our babies are.
Relaxation and Meditation
A great therapeutic tool assisting with hormonal imbalances, mood sways and fears which can be associated with pregnancy. The relaxation techniques are used to help develop your sense of awareness, helping you to connect even more deeply with your unborn child. Trained in hypnotherapy, relaxations are also geared towards reducing any fear and anxiety associated with birthday and developing positive associations with the idea of birth.
Posture
Pregnancy can cause even the straightest arrow to slouch. When you start nursing, pushing a stroller and lifting a baby, your posture can really be affected. . Yoga improves posture by increasing back and shoulder strength and by opening our chests it is easier to stand up tall. During your pregnancy you will also learn techniques to use for when bubs arrives so you can do gentle exercises at home to assist with recovery and help you stay strong.
Moral Support
Yoga Circle is your space to meet other women in this wonderful life stage. A space where you can enjoy the physical benefits and are able to build valuable support networks as you go forward in your new role as a mother.
“I have seen so many wonderful friendships develop over the years teaching prenatal yoga. It really is my honour and pleasure to share this special time with you”
Read about one of our customer’s prenatal yoga class experiences…
