Yoga for Pregnancy (Relaxation Techniques)

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Various countries have their own relaxation techniques for pregnant women.

Pavlovian School of Russia was inspired by our yogic methods for girls and pregnant women.

Hypnosis is one of the methods, which allows the subconscious mind to listen while the conscious mind takes rest and gets complete relaxation.

Reiki, (Pronounced Ray-Key), is an ancient Tibetan healing art rediscovered inJapan by Dr. Mikau Usui, Reiki is a Japanese word describing "Universal lifeforce energy" . This method involves pranic healing.

Transcendental Meditation (T.M) reduces the metabolic rate, lowers stress, andalso lowers the concentration of various biochemicals in the blood which are associated with stress, such as cortisol. TM produces a state of rest uniqueeven to deep sleep or simple relaxation.

Acupuncture is another ancient method, which involves inserting hair-thin steel surgical needles into specific points in the body, which are known to take away the discomfort and pain and thus relax the body and mind.

Certain exercises recommended by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) help in relaxing the pregnant woman.

Many centers all over the world have taken research work in the field of yoga. SwamiVivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA) Bangalore has evolved a simple,useful module of basic yoga practices for mothers-to-be and extensive researchis going on in one of the super speciality referral maternity hospital.

There is still a lot of apprehension and fear in the minds of doctors and obstetricians, much more than the pregnant women themselves; whether yoga exercises bring adverse effects, as there are many misconceptions about yoga. Imust make it very clear here, that asanas are a very small part of the entire integrated practices. It is to calm down the mind and allay their fears and anxiety about their pregnancy and delivery that yoga emphasises. There are also cultural and social inhibitions in them, which need counseling, coaxing and motivating.
Upavista Konasana (Sitting with Legs Wide)

Sitting on the floor with legs wide apart is both comfortable and beneficial in pregnancy. The pelvis is well grounded and the diameters of the pelvic canal widen, encouraging a feeling of openness. Mobility of the hip joints increases while the muscles of the inner thighs and the backs of the legs lengthen and release. This posture stabilizes and anchors the pelvis and so enhances the release of tension along the spine and in the neck and shoulders.

Regular practice of this position will increase your confidence in being able to open your body to give birth and enhance your awareness of the way your pelvisis widening and loosening to make space for your baby. You can sit like this asoften as you like or use this position for your breathing practice.

Start in the basic sitting position with your lower back supported by a wall or a corner. This posture can also be done sitting back-to-back with a partner or with your partner's feet supporting the spine

Spread your legs as wide apart as possible without exceeding your natural limit. It is not important how wide you can open your legs but rather how comfortable you feel. Focus your awareness on your breathing and the way your body contacts the floor.

Disclaimer:
Before practice, please consult your doctor in case you are suffering from ailments. It is recommended to practice under the guidance of experts.