Baby yoga is a fun and beneficial way for you to bond with your baby. It’s also a great way to ease yourself back into exercise after giving birth. So, here’s everything you need to know to get started on baby yoga with your little one.
Benefits Of Baby Yoga
First, let’s talk about some of the benefits of baby yoga. Many parents have said that their little one’s sleep has improved after starting baby yoga. Gentle stretching and movements could help with your little one’s digestive system and ease wind. Experts also think that starting to develop your little one’s motor and sensory skills at a young age gives them a great grounding for development at later stages.
There’s also benefits for you. The first being that it gives you a unique opportunity to bond with your baby. It also gives your muscles some gentle TLC and exercise, which can help you feel better post-partum. As well as that, if you join a class, it gives you a chance to meet other new mums and give yourself a support network.
First Steps
You don’t need to know anything about yoga to get started. There won’t be anything too complex, or taxing on your body. You also won’t be helping your baby move in overly complex ways, but the gentle movement will give your baby stimulation, and enjoyment.
You can join a class in your local area, but make sure that you check the age ranges of the class. Some classes will accept babies as young as six weeks, while others will only take babies who can hold their heads up unaided, so around three months old.
Baby yoga has lots of different elements such as body strokes, relaxation techniques, moves and stretches that have been adapted for babies, and some more playful moves alongside rhymes or music.
Baby Yoga At Home
If you can’t find a baby yoga class in your area, or if your little one is too young to join, there are some baby yoga movements that you can do at home. Always check with your healthcare provider before you begin any new routine and take care not to over stretch yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable with a movement, or any exercise routine after giving birth, don’t do it.
Here are a few movements that you may want to try with your little one.
Morning Stretches
Lay your little one on their back, and help them put their arms over their head, and their legs out straight. Hold this position for one or two breaths, and then let their legs and arms go. Let your little one naturally go back into their normal position.
Knee To Chest
Lay your little one on their back, and gently bring one of their knees in towards their chest. Hold this for one or two breaths, and then let go. Wait for another breath or two, and then do the same with the other leg.
Pose To Relieve Wind
Lay your baby on their back, and take both feet in your hands. Holding the sole of your little one’s feet to the palm of your hand, gently push, moving both their knees towards their chest. Hold this pose for a few breaths, and then let go.
