How do Prenatal classes differ from regular classes?

In prenatal classes the women share one exciting experience in common-- pregnancy. There is much wisdom to be learned from other women and if you have any questions about pregnancy, chances are very likely that someone in the group has some insight.

Postures in the prenatal classes are chosen to accomodate the woman's changing body. For example, low back strain is very common as is pain generated from impingement of the sciatic nerve. There are yoga postures and movements that help relieve and/or prevent these conditions. With regular practice, the pregnant woman is better prepared for the challenges of labour and delivery. The practice itself is gentle yet challenging, incorporating traditional poses and modifications of the postures. Partner work is explored for a deepened sense of the postures. Class sizes are small to ensure that you receive more personal attention from your teacher.

When is a good time to begin classes and are there any health considerations?

A woman may begin taking classes as soon as she feels she is ready. For instance, if in her first trimester she is experiencing morning sickness, then she will want to delay starting classes until the nausea has subsided. The sooner she begins her practice, the more time she will have to devote to opening up her body and practicing relaxation and breath awareness.

A woman’s body undergoes many changes during pregnancy and if a serious condition like toxemia arises, it would be best for her to cease her classes and carefully follow her caregiver’s advice. Also, it is important that a woman keep her yoga teacher informed of any changes to her health as some postures may not be suitable for some conditions.

“Sappho's Prenatal Yoga was a calm, intimate time and space where I could take time out from work and studies and focus on the new life growing within me as we stretched and moved. I used several of the postures and the breathing we learned in Sappho's class in my home birth and I credit this for my calm, easy delivery. Even now, I benefit from this class in the friends I met. We have a fantastic Moms & Babies group where we get together every Friday (there are ten of us!). I think we all bonded in that safe environment and we continue to help each other as we move through motherhood. I also credit the class to my speedy recovery, I was roller blading and hiking just a few weeks after delivery! Of all the things I did during this pregnancy, yoga was the best and I would highly recommend Sappho's class to all discerning moms! Thank you, Sappho!!”
- Diana Cooper

Wide Angle Pose (Upavistha Konasana)	Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
Spinal Flexion (Mad Cat)	Partner Twist

*See the Photo Gallery for more prenatal postures