The female body does look different after having a baby, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Many new mothers are startled to find their tummies still look pregnant. Extra kilos look more obvious without the big belly to balance out proportions. Abdominal skin may be wrinkled like an old balloon. Or wrinkled and wobbly, hence the term “jelly belly”.
And it’s not just the outside. Your abdominal muscles may have separated down the middle. If you had a vaginal delivery you may feel open or loose down there. Weakened pelvic floor muscles may also be causing light bladder leakage. (Yes?)
On top of these physical changes, you may be tired, tense, and anxious over your new role.
The good news is that the human body is great at repairing and righting itself, especially with a bit of help.
Huggies postnatal yoga program is designed to help you gradually recover your pre-baby shape. It’ll also boost your energy levels and help you keep your cool in times of stress.
Presented by renowned yoga teacher Katie Brown, of Sydney’s Yoga Babes, the program is designed for you to do at home, in your own time. It’s ideal for mothers as you can fit it around your busy new schedule. You can practice while baby sleeps, or keep baby close by lying on a bunny rug or in the stroller. And it’s free!
So if you’re finding it hard to get out the front door, or your budget doesn’t stretch to classes, or you live in a remote area, you can now enjoy all the benefits of postnatal yoga with an expert teacher.
Because yoga is a holistic exercise – meaning it tackles mind and body – this postnatal yoga program will reduce anxiety and stress while simultaneously toning and strengthening your body and helping you shift unwanted kilos.
Originating in India, Yoga’s roots can be traced back at least five thousand years. Yoga exercises consist of different poses called “asana”, that are held steady for up to several seconds, while controlling the breathing. The breathing techniques are called “pranayamas”. Each pose or “asana” targets different areas of the body.
What does the postnatal yoga program involve?
This program should be started at least 6 weeks from the birth of your baby. As with any form of postnatal exercise, first check with your doctor and get the all clear before you begin. If a position feels uncomfortable, leave that one out. Take care not to over-stretch, as the ligaments around joints are still loose and soft from pregnancy.
Get ready for your first pregnancy yoga lesson
You can watch the videos on your computer or download them to a DVD so you can play them on your DVD player and see them on the bigger TV screen.
Pick a time when you won’t be disturbed. Turn off your mobile phone and stereo so you can focus on your poses and breathing without distractions. (Although once you’re familiar with the routines it’s nice to have soft music playing in the background.) You may like to draw the curtains or blinds and light your yoga space with just a lamp or scented candles.
Your equipment
Watch teacher Katie Brown’s introduction to postnatal yoga >
Are you ready? Here’s your first lesson – warrior pose >
These programs have been created by: Katie Brown – yoga teacher and infant massage specialist
