Your common questions about Pregnancy, Postnatal, and Flow Yoga
Pregnancy Yoga Questions
When can I start pregnancy yoga? My answer is that if you feel ok, if you feel like moving, if your midwife or doctor hasn’t advised you not to move, then join us for some movement for your body. If you’re already active, stay active, as long as it feels good. If you’re more sedentary, take it easy in whatever you begin during pregnancy and consider sticking with the first options provided. If at any point something doesn’t feel good, don’t “push through”. Pull back, slow it down, take some time, or take a rest.
What is with the twelve-week guidance that you might hear from other teachers then? Well, unfortunately, one in four pregnancies don’t make it beyond the twelve-week mark for a host of different reasons, and there is a concern that there may be a connection made or blamed on starting something new in pregnancy, such as yoga.
What do I need to join a class? If you have a yoga mat or bricks, bring them along. If not, everything will be provided for you.
What should I wear for a yoga class? Anything you are comfortable in.
Can I still join if I have a pregnancy complication or old injury? The answer is maybe, probably but I’ll need a bit more information to give you a solid yes or no. Drop me a message or call me and we discuss what is right for you. Email me at kirsti@foreverbody.co.uk or call me/ WhatsApp me at +44-792-087-1907.
Postnatal Yoga Questions
When can I start postnatal yoga?
If you are feeling well and you had an uncomplicated pregnancy/ vaginal birth you can join postnatal yoga once you’ve had your 6-week check-up with your health care professional.
If you had complications during pregnancy/ birth or had an abdominal birth it is recommended to wait until you are 12 weeks postnatal to join a yoga class, this extra time allows your body some rest & recovery.
If you adopted or had the support of a surrogate for the arrival of your little one, you can join whenever you and your little one are ready to come to class.
I’m feeling like myself already. Can I start yoga before the 6-week/ 12-week checks? It is amazing that you are feeling good. If you have had a early sign off from your health care provider and feel up to joining class, you are welcome to come join us.
Reminder, you don’t “have to” do anything. Take the time you need whether it is 4 weeks or 4 years. At home, you can focus on your diaphragmatic breathing thinking about connecting with your pelvic floor. Think about postural alignment, if you were in pregnancy yoga with me think back to that nice connection between your Sacrum, Shoulder Blades, & Skull, find it and breathe with your alignment. I can’t wait to see you in class.
What do I need to have to join a class?
If you have a yoga mat & bricks, bring them along. If not, everything will be provided for you.
If your baby is joining, a blanket for them to rest on, a rattle, and a scarf or some ribbons.
What should I wear for a yoga class? Anything you are comfortable with.
Functional Flow Yoga Questions
I’m not flexible, is yoga for me? Absolutely! Being flexible isn’t a requirement. Yoga is about form & function, mobility & stability. Continued yoga practice will increase your flexibility, improve your posture, balance and wellbeing whilst building strength and supporting joint care. You can practice whether you can touch your toes or not.
I have an injury/ I’m recovering from an injury. Can I still practice yoga? The answer will always depend on your unique body & situation. You may be able to practice with some modifications or it may be best to wait a little longer and focus on rest & repair. Drop me a message or call me to discuss your unique situation and we can figure out what is best for you.
What do I wear to a yoga class? Anything you are comfortable in and helps you stay cool. Once we get moving & breathing, you’ll most likely start to warm up so try to find some clothing that breathes.
Do I need to bring anything with me to class? If you have a yoga mat & bricks, bring them along, if you don’t there will always be a mat for you to borrow. Other than that, an open mind and bottle of water to hydrate after class.
General Questions
Are there class guidelines I need to know about? There are a few guidelines but it’s nothing too complicated:
If you can, arrive a few minutes early to set yourself up.
Check-in with me at the start of class.
If practical, leave your phone on silent, not on vibrate, in your bag.
If comfortable doing so, stay for savasana and the closing of the class. Let me know at the start of class if you anticipate leaving early and if needed, please take a spot near the door and tip-toe out of the room.
What is it about yoga that is good for me? Everybody gets their own benefits from yoga. It may be movement, injury recovery, spiritual, quiet time, stretching, complementary to other movements or exercise. Below is a list of the common benefits:
Reduce stress & relieve anxiety.
Improve strength & flexibility.
Relieve back & shoulder pain.
Increase concentration & make clearer decisions.
Breathe better & balance energy.
Nurture & care for your joints.
What happens if I am late? If you arrive after the class start time please quietly come in, find a spot and join in.
What happens if I can’t make a class? Please note, classes are not transferable (to another person or another term or class) if you are not able to join a class as part of a course booking, you will be sent a class recording so you don’t miss out completely.
What should I expect in a typical class?
Please see our class descriptions here.
Can I do yoga if I have injuries or health concerns?
That depends! Please email me if you have any concerns and I can advise accordingly.