Prenatal Yoga: The Perfect Pregnancy ExerciseWhat is prenatal yoga?

Yoga is a form of exercise and meditation where breath and specific body positions are used to help connect the mind and body. Prenatal yoga focuses on positions that are specifically designed for pregnant women’s bodies.

How is prenatal yoga different from regular yoga? Common positions in regular yoga — such as those where your feet are spread far apart — may be too stressful for your joints and pelvic area when you’re expecting. As your baby grows, there’s a lot more weight pushing down on your bladder and pelvis.Can prenatal yoga be the first time I ever do yoga? Yes! You don’t have to be a yogi before you conceive to jump on the prenatal yoga bandwagon. As long as your doctor has given you the green light to stay physically active during pregnancy, yoga is an ideal activity for all expectant moms: It’s gentle and designed for pregnancy, which means it helps prepare you for the mental aspects of childbirth (and beyond).

But remember, it’s always a good idea to check with your practitioner before starting any new exercise during pregnancy.

What to expect in a pregnancy yoga class In a prenatal yoga class, you’ll likely be encouraged to use accessories (bolsters, blocks, wedges or folded blankets) to achieve the proper alignment. You can typically expect:An introduction. Your yoga teacher will want to know your name, how far along you are, any aches and pains you're having, and what body parts or poses .