Aqua Yoga

After giving birth, postnatal aqua yoga classes are designed to help realign and close the body, as well as strengthen and tone the muscles of the pelvis and lower back. Water is uniqely healing for the perineum and a good medium in which to tone the pelvic floor muscles. Rather than aiming to simply 'get back in shape', the goal of the class is to create a new strength and stamina. As with the prenatal aqua yoga classes, breathing and floating relaxation remain an essential part of postnatal classes. The sessions are ideal for those suffering from back aches and SPD.

The aims of postnatal aqua yoga

to close the body after birth
ease aches and pains
to stretch and strengthen the spinal and abdominal muscles
to repair and recover control of the pelvic floor muscles
to expand breathing capacity
to relax deeply and release worries or fears

The class includes:

Breathing: In the same way the breath was used to open the body for birth, in the postnatal class the reverse is engaged. Deep breathing is used to contract the abdominal and pelvic floor mucles allowing them to close and strengthen.

Swimming: Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for women after giving birth. Our classes teach the correct adaptations of classic swimming strokes to accomodate the changes in the body and support the pelvis. Classes are suitable for all women from accomplished swimmers to non-swimmers.

Yoga movements in water: Simple classic yoga poses are adapted to the water making exercise enjoyable for all participants, particularly if they are suffering from backache or pelvic pain, or if they are overweight. Bodies feel virtually weightless in water enabling deep stretching.

Relaxation: Aqua Yoga brings a sense of deep relaxation. Relaxation is often forgotten when a new baby arrives. The class offers time to float and enjoy total relaxation in a warm, safe enviroment. Those not comfortable with floating freely can use woggles or keep the feet on the floor.

Group work: To offer and receive support and get to know the other mothers in the group.

Classes can be attended from 6/8 weeks after giving birth. Spaces are limited to eight ladies per session so booking is essential. The cost of the class is £6 per session, paid in blocks of 6 weeks.

Please see class dates & bookings for more information.

Thanks to Francoise Freedman, Shawn Tomlinson and Birthlight for training, information and photos on aqua yoga. For more information on Birthlight please go to www.birthlight.com