Yoga is safe to practice in the first trimester of pregnancy, although hot yoga (like hot tubs or…

Yoga is safe to practice in the first trimester of pregnancy, although hot yoga (like hot tubs or other activities that could overheat you) should be avoided. The first three months of pregnancy are a time of major changes in your body and practicing yoga can help you navigate this time both physically and emotionally. Long before any outward manifestation of pregnancy begins to get in the way of doing poses, your body may begin to feel different on the inside. Yoga can help you tune in to your body.

what your body can do, but yoga teaches you to respect the cues your body gives you, an attitude that can help you prepare for listening to your body during childbirth. Plus, studies have shown that yoga can provide a variety of benefits during pregnancy, including lowered stress levels and improved automatic nervous system function. Discuss your plans to do yoga with your health-care provider before getting started, and find out if they have any limitations for your physical activities. If you are experiencing nausea in the first trimester, this is your body telling you to take it easy. If you have been attending yoga class regularly, give yourself permission to miss classes or take a less vigorous class if you don't feel well. There are many ways to access prenatal yoga—and early on you may even want to continue with regular yoga classes provided they aren't too vigorous or, as noted above, in heated rooms.

You may not feel comfortable discussing your pregnancy with many peo