Yoga can be truly beneficial for new parents, offering mental, physical, and emotional support during a time that can be both joyful and challenging. So whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a novice, here are four reasons why you should roll out the mat…
1. It helps you chill
New parenthood comes with a lot of stress, whether it’s from sleep deprivation, feeding schedules, or adjusting to the new responsibilities of caring for a baby. Yoga incorporates deep breathing and mindfulness practices that can help reduce anxiety and calm your mind.
Deep diaphragmatic breathing and alternate nostril breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce cortisol levels and increase feelings of calm.
Through mindful movement and meditation, yoga helps you become more present and stops your frazzled mind from racing.
2. It helps ease tension and supports Postpartum Recovery
Caring for a newborn often means spending long hours holding, feeding, and rocking the baby, which can lead to aches and pains in the shoulders, neck, back, and wrists. Yoga can help relieve this physical tension while also aiding in postpartum recovery.
Yoga postures like cat-cow stretches, spinal twists, and chest openers help release tension in the upper body and correct postural issues that come from holding a baby for extended periods.
Gentle core and pelvic floor exercises help rebuild strength and stability in the body, which can be particularly helpful for mothers recovering from pregnancy and childbirth.
3. Boosts Energy
New parents often feel shattered from lack of sleep and the constant demands of caring for a newborn. While you might not feel like exercising, even a short, gentle yoga practice can help rejuvenate and provide a natural energy boost.
Yoga movements promote blood flow and oxygenate the body, which can reduce fatigue and increase vitality.
Yoga can help regulate hormones by reducing stress and improving circulation, which can enhance energy levels and combat the exhaustion many new parents feel.
4. Encourages Quality "Me-Time"
Finding a few minutes for self-care is essential for new parents, and yoga offers a way to carve out meaningful "me-time" in a manageable, non-demanding way. Whether it’s five minutes of meditation or a quick stretch session, this time can help you recharge and feel more resilient.
Finding a class
If you’ve recently given birth, check with your health practitioner that it’s safe to exercise. Once you have the green light, there are many classes out there tailored to new parents and even some that will allow you to bring your baby along.
If a full class seems too much, you find many great resources online and even a short session of restorative poses or guided meditation can provide a deep sense of relaxation.
Namaste!
