Okay, let’s be real for a second. When you’re pregnant, any movement is enough to inspire a long nap. Painting your toenails–let alone reaching down to touch them for a stretch–doesn’t exactly seem like a possibility. So, when someone suggests an activity like yoga, there’s a good chance you simply aren’t interested. Fortunately, yoga can actually be pretty beneficial throughout your pregnancy. In fact, many providers suggest adding it to your regular routine. As a Harrisonburg family photographer, I get the chance to connect with tons of parents who have decided to start a yoga program. Here’s everything you need to know about Harrisonburg yoga!
Discover The Wonders of Prenatal Workouts At Harrisonburg Yoga Studios
What is Prenatal Yoga?
First off, let’s talk about prenatal yoga and what makes it a little different than your standard Yoga With Adriene video (no shade intended). While many Harrisonburg yoga practices are pregnancy-safe, prenatal yoga is designed to assist your body as it grows during pregnancy. All the movements are safe to complete while you’re pregnant, and there are modifications if you can’t quite reach your toes. The teachers are trained to lead you through the stretches while ensuring your form will help you get the most out of each movement. They are also going to put a huge priority on breathwork. You will work on slowly breathing in and out with each stretch. This is really going to come in handy once you are in labor, using your breath to power you through!
Some people wonder whether it’s actually necessary to take a prenatal yoga class rather than something like a beginner’s Harrisonburg yoga session. While you can absolutely substitute it, you are not going to get the same results. It’s kind of like substituting wheat flour for all-purpose when you’re baking a cake. Sure, it’ll work, but it’s going to feel like something is missing! There are also some classes you need to take out of the rotation, like intensive and hot yoga sessions. Those can be pretty hard on both you and your baby. If you do decide to take a session that is not a designated prenatal class, please be sure to chat with the instructor first! They might have some modifications to ensure you remain safe through the stretches.
When Can I Do Yoga?
And one last note on this topic, sometimes Harrisonburg yoga classes might specify that they only accept yogis in their second and third trimesters. While prenatal yoga is generally pretty safe at any point in pregnancy, this is a liability thing. They want to be sure you and your baby don’t risk any injury. As with everything, it’s always a good idea to chat with your provider first and make sure prenatal yoga is right for you. If the studio does say to wait until the second trimester, you can see if they accept a doctor’s note. If they do not, just wait a few weeks. Use that time to work on your corpse pose as you binge your reality show of choice.
Benefits of Prenatal Yoga
So, what are the benefits of prenatal yoga at Harrisonburg studios? For starters, prenatal yoga is one of the best things when it comes to flexibility and stamina. Both of those factors are going to pay off majorly when it’s actually time to deliver. They can also help you as you begin to recover from labor. In addition, prenatal yoga is going to help with a number of pregnancy discomforts. The focus on posture can correct back soreness, and the poses will increase your circulation, which will decrease swelling and keep your blood pressure under control. As you build muscle strength, you are going to put some focus on the pelvic floor, limiting potential dysfunction once your baby is born. Plus, the breathing exercises are going to reduce everyday stress while helping you practice once it’s showtime!
Finally, perhaps the biggest benefit of prenatal yoga is the social aspect. This is your chance to connect with other moms who are also expecting. Not only are you going to bond as you go through the movements together, but you are going to build your community. You know how they say it takes a village? Well, a prenatal yoga class is the perfect way to find your village who will be there for the next several years of your life!
Where Can You Practice Prenatal Yoga in Harrisonburg?
The Center Yoga Collective
217 S. Liberty Street, Suite 201, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801
The Center Yoga Collective is a pretty amazing Harrisonburg studio that offers both online and in-person yoga sessions. They have an app that makes it a breeze to schedule classes from wherever you are. They offer tons of options for their prenatal classes and let you experiment with a combination of pilates, yoga, and movement. The Center has several different payment options, including drop-in classes, 3-week class passes, and 3-month unlimited class memberships.
Yogasita
Yogasita is a Harrisonburg studio that does yoga a little differently. One of the many reasons why I always recommend this spot is because they offer one-on-one lessons that come directly to you. You can book a prenatal class, and you will have an instructor come to your space, so you barely even have to leave the couch! Your instructor will gently guide you through movements that will be great for both you and your baby. They also offer monthly memberships so you can have as many lessons as you need.
Shenandoah Yoga
Shenandoah Yoga offers several options for your practice. They do not currently have a brick-and-mortar studio, but they do offer in-person classes outdoors on the patio of the Shenandoah Bicycle Company. If you don’t feel like leaving the house, you can also catch these sessions live through their online classes. With their prenatal yoga classes, you will be led through poses that will help you build up strength while focusing on proper breathing.
Your Body Will Love You After A Trip To These Harrisonburg Yoga Studios
If you think prenatal yoga is right for you, these Harrisonburg yoga studios will make sure you can have the best start to your practice. Book your first session soon so you can decide for yourself!
Are you looking for more ways to be ready for your little one? Don’t forget to book some pictures! As a Harrisonburg family photographer, I adore planning newborn sessions that let you make the most of these early months. If you have been considering booking your session, let’s have a conversation so you can decide if my style is right for you. Send me a message today to find out more!
