Positive affirmations, cultivating joy and thoughts on yoga practice in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy✨

I was asked recently whether it was ok to continue with a yoga practice in your First Trimester. It’s quite a controversial subject and obviously the answer can vary massively depending on the individual and your medical history, how you’re currently feeling, your existing practice and the type of yoga you are talking about. A Bikram or Ashtanga yoga class or attempting headstands and backbends when you’ve never done them before just isn’t going to cut it!

However, in my opinion,  if you have an existing practice, if you are feeling good and want to do some gentle stretching, breathing and movement than by all means go for it! Especially a home practice if it makes you feel good! Of course avoid twists, backbends, inversions, contractions of the abdomen e.g. planks/ chattaranga or lying on your belly. If you have doubts and prefer guidance best to follow some online prenatal yoga classes specifically for 1st Trimester (as many face to face classes may prefer for you to wait until after 12weeks) @yogaglo, @stralayoga and @tarastiles are a few.

The main focus is to find a sense of joy, softness and fluidity. No force, no tension, no pressure. Just creating a fun, warm, welcoming environment for that little life you’re creating in there. You’re the host at a special party for two! Make it a good one 🎉 

Equally if you’re feeling rubbish in these early weeks doing nothing is perfectly acceptable too! I was this time round and Asana was the furthest thing from my mind. Listen to your body and how you’re feeling, rest and at most try some Yoga Nidra or Positive Meditation.

TheYesMumMum / @theyesmumbirthproject have some great downloadable meditations to listen to and positive birth affirmation cards too.

What are your thoughts and experiences of yoga in early pregnancy? ✨💕