The first few weeks after baby’s birth can be incredibly exciting but also very draining for a new mother. Not only are you coming to grips with your awesome new role, but you’re also getting by with much less sleep and experiencing intense new emotions.
No wonder so many new mums wonder what’s hit them!
Taking care of yourself can make a huge difference to your state of mind and body, helping you cope with sleep deprivation and letting you relax and enjoy the ride.
These three great exercises are designed to relieve stress and physical tension, improve your posture and relieve fatigue. They are must-dos in your postnatal yoga program and you can start doing them on day one.
These programs have been created by: Katie Brown – yoga teacher and infant massage specialist
Pelvic floor contractions
Don’t worry if you don’t feel much at first. It can take time to regain strength and feeling to your pelvic floor muscle, especially if you’ve had a long labour or delivered a big baby. It’s very important to restore your pelvic floor as weakness in this area can lead to prolapse, incontinence and loss of sexual desire. Try to do at least 25 pelvic floor contractions a day. More if you can. There’s no such thing as too many.
Neck & shoulder release
These nice and gentle stretches help to relieve upper body tension caused by long feeding sessions and carrying your baby and equipment.
Neck retractions
This yoga exercise is only a small movement but it will feel quite pronounced. It’s fantastic for easing “new parent’s neck” – tension and stiffness from gazing down at baby and prolonged feeding and carrying.
Next try Mum’s magic massage
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