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Pregnancy Yoga Classes for a Joyful Motherhood Journey

Cultivate Strength, Intuition, and a Supportive Community Throughout Pregnancy Journey

Empowered Birthing:
Yoga, Reiki & Mindfulness for Pregnancy

Motherhood is a transformative journey requiring change and adaptation. As your body prepares for birth, you deserve a practice that supports you holistically throughout every stage. Prenatal Yoga offers a space to connect with others, your baby, and your inner warrior.

 

In my private or group classes, you'll explore nourishing and empowering asanas that strengthen your birthing muscles for a more confident and comfortable delivery, reduce common pregnancy discomforts like backaches and fatigue, and ignite your intuition and connect deeply with your growing baby.

 

Additionally, each class incorporates mindful breathing techniques (pranayama) and mindfulness practices, historically used to manage labor pains and promote relaxation. This holistic approach fosters a sense of trust and confidence in your body's ability to birth. 

 

Here, you'll find a practice that embraces the following:

Reiki for Relaxation:
 Experience the calming touch of Reiki, an ancient energy healing technique, to promote deep relaxation and emotional well-being on and off the yoga mat. This is an optional add-on that I'm happy to provide you whilst you rest in savasana or another deeply nourishing yoga pose. 

Mindful Birthing Techniques (For Expectant Mothers):

Cultivate inner calm, connect with your breath, and approach birth (or re-birth as a mother) with confidence and awareness, whether you're a first-time mom or welcoming another miracle. These skills also translate beautifully into managing stress, promoting relaxation, and fostering inner peace throughout your life's journey.

Pranayama (Breathwork):

Discover powerful breathing exercises to energize, ground, and connect with your inner wisdom. These practices are particularly beneficial for pregnancy (promoting emotional balance) and postpartum (supporting recovery), but their benefits extend far beyond. Breathwork techniques will empower you to manage stress, enhance focus, and cultivate inner peace throughout your life's journey.

Meditation:

Cultivate inner peace and quietude through guided meditations designed to support you at every stage of your journey. During your menstrual cycle, meditation can help manage stress and emotional fluctuations. In pregnancy, meditation can foster a deep connection with your growing baby and promote emotional balance. As a mother, meditation offers moments of serenity amidst the joys and adjustments of parenthood. It can be a powerful tool for managing stress and emotional transitions. These practices will also empower you to develop inner wisdom and navigate life's challenges with greater ease. 

waves with orange sun
waves with orange sun

TIME & LOCATION

Nourish Your Body and Bond with Your Baby

I am unfortunately not currently offering Pregnancy Yoga classes in a group setting, however, I do offer them privately while I continue my training in the following: 

 

I am currently in training to become a Birthing From Within Doula and Childbirth Educator through the program led by Pam England, midwife and founder of Birthing From Within. This course offers a modern interpretation of childbirth preparation and support, tapping into ancient inner knowing in conjunction with evidence-based modern knowing; teaching me to provide deep, meaningful guidance to those in their childbearing years.

 

Additionally, I am in training to become a Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting Teacher through the (MBCPTT) program offered by Nancy Bardake, CNM, via MindfulBirthing.org. This program will prepare me to teach expectant parents mindfulness techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and pain during pregnancy and childbirth. 

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POSTNATAL YOGA

Nurture Your Well-being and Rejuvenate in Postnatal Yoga

Postnatal Yoga offers a dedicated space for you to unwind and prioritize your well-being after childbirth. In my private and group classes, I combine nourishing and strengthening postnatal asanas with mindful breathwork, leading to quicker physical recovery and a stronger sense of self. Physically, the class focuses on healing and strengthening deep core muscles, relieving back pain, and supporting the pelvic floor. Mentally, the lessons incorporate mindful breathing practices to enhance relaxation and promote inner peace. This practice also focuses on both physical healing and emotional processing, boosting intuition and processing emotions, memories, and experiences that arise with parenthood; equipping you to navigate the unique challenges and joys of new parenthood.

MUM + CHILD + YOGA + PILATES

Rejuvenating Yoga Poses, Strengthening Pilates, & Mindful Moments for You & Your Family

Extend the journey of your Pregnancy Yoga practice into motherhood. Mum + Child Yoga + Pilates is a nurturing space where you can deepen your connection with your child through movement and mindful presence. Sessions are designed to evolve with you, becoming more dynamic over time to help restore your strength and stamina. In Pilates, we incorporate tools like Pilates balls and weights to rebuild your core, tone your muscles, and strengthen your upper body. In Yoga, the postures transform into a playful interaction, encouraging a sense of unity and shared exploration between you and your little one. Feel free to breastfeed, change nappies, or allow your baby to rest as needed. Join our supportive community of women, where you'll find understanding and camaraderie. Mum & Child Yoga and Pilates classes are offered at the Thanet and in the parks on warm, summer days! Click below to learn more about those classes and their locations, dates, and times.

MENOPAUSE YOGA

Embrace Support for a Graceful Transition

Menopause Yoga embraces the cyclical nature of womanhood, offering a supportive space for you to navigate the beautiful yet sometimes challenging transition of menopause.

Here's what you can expect:

Nourishing Movement & Breathwork: Gentle yoga postures and mindful breathing techniques help manage common symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, and muscle aches.

Emotional Wellbeing: Yoga fosters self-compassion and empowers you to embrace this transformative stage with grace.

Strength & Flexibility: Yoga promotes bone density, improves flexibility, and supports overall strength for healthy aging.

What Mum's Say

Ana Lucia, holding her pregnant belly, praises Ashley's holistic approach to well-being (Mind-body balance & holistic practices).
"Ashley helped me prepare for my motherhood experience via mindful birthing meditation + yoga therapy two to three days a week. When labor began I wasn't allowed to have my husband with me due to covid. Ashley stopped what she was doing to be with me via facetime + led me through 30 minutes of gentle yoga, followed by pranayama + meditation which helped me feel strong and powerful again. Her ability to make me visualize my power still resonates with me today."
~ Ana Lucia

Q&A + FAQs

QUESTION: What is the difference between prenatal and postnatal yoga? ANSWER: Prenatal yoga focuses on gentle poses, stretches, and breathing exercises to promote flexibility, strength, and relaxation during pregnancy. It also incorporates practices to prepare for childbirth. Postnatal yoga focuses on gentle movement and core strengthening to aid recovery after childbirth, while also addressing emotional well-being and the transition to motherhood.

QUESTION: Is this class suitable for beginners? ANSWER: Absolutely! This class welcomes beginners and experienced yogis alike. Modifications will be offered throughout the practice to cater to various fitness levels and stages of pregnancy/postpartum recovery.

QUESTION: What should I wear to class? ANSWER: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely. For prenatal yoga, consider wearing supportive maternity activewear.

QUESTION: Do I need to bring anything to class? ANSWER: Please bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. If you have any yoga props you prefer to use, feel free to bring them along. I may also have some props available for use in the studio.

QUESTION: Is it safe to do yoga while pregnant? ANSWER: Consulting with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, including yoga, is highly recommended. However, safe and appropriate prenatal yoga can offer numerous benefits for expecting mothers.

QUESTION: When is the best time to start prenatal yoga? ANSWER: You can start prenatal yoga at any stage of your pregnancy but only if you have a doctor's permission. It is beneficial to begin as early as the first trimester (particularly if you have had previous experience), but even joining in the later stages can provide numerous benefits for your body and well-being.

QUESTION: Can I modify poses if I'm experiencing discomfort? ANSWER: Absolutely! Listening to your body is essential throughout pregnancy. I encourage you to modify any pose that feels uncomfortable and communicate with me about any limitations you may have.

QUESTION: Are there any poses to avoid during pregnancy? ANSWER: It's best to avoid poses that put strain on your abdominal muscles, require lying flat on your back for extended periods, or involve twisting the torso excessively. I will guide you through safe and effective poses for each stage of pregnancy.

QUESTION: Are there any specific benefits of prenatal yoga and postnatal yoga? ANSWER: Prenatal and postnatal yoga offer a wealth of benefits for moms-to-be and new mothers. Both practices can ease pregnancy discomforts, improve sleep and energy levels, and prepare the body for childbirth and recovery. Yoga also reduces stress, boosts mood, and strengthens core muscles, all while potentially connecting you with a supportive community of women.

QUESTION: How soon after giving birth can I start attending postnatal yoga classes? ANSWER: It is generally recommended to wait until you have received medical clearance from your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including postnatal yoga. Generally, waiting 6-8 weeks postpartum for a vaginal birth and 8-10 weeks for a cesarean delivery is recommended. Once you have received the green light, you can join our classes to support your recovery and well-being.

QUESTION: Will this class help me recover from childbirth? ANWER: Postnatal yoga offers gentle movements and targeted poses that can help strengthen your core muscles, improve pelvic floor health, and promote overall recovery after childbirth.

QUESTION: Can I bring my child or children to the pregnancy yoga classes? ANSWER: YES. Children of all ages are welcome! It's all about Nurturing the Seeds of Self-Care 💜 Yoga is a gift that keeps on giving, and at its core, it’s about cultivating awareness and connection — with ourselves, our bodies, and the world around us. ✨ Wouldn’t it be amazing to plant those seeds of self-care early on? That’s why I believe children belong in the yoga studio! In my classes, I welcome families to practice together, because witnessing the practice of mindfulness and self-care can have a profound impact on a child. Imagine the ripple effect – a child who sees their parent taking a deep breath, focusing on their body, and finding moments of calm, is more likely to embrace those practices themselves. Sure, there might be moments of wiggles or giggles (they are kids after all!), but that’s part of the journey. With open communication and gentle redirection, a little disruption can become a teaching moment – a chance to learn about patience, understanding, and the importance of being present in the moment. Here’s the thing: Sometimes, teachers and parents might feel a sense of needing to control the environment perfectly. But true growth often happens outside our comfort zones. Isn’t that part of the yogic journey too? Letting go of attachment to outcomes and embracing the present moment, even when it’s messy? And for those reading who may not have children, or simply seek a distraction-free practice — I hear you! The beauty of Yoga is that it’s a practice for everyone, and I tailor my classes, public and private, to you. So, just let me know what you need. But the reality is, distractions are a part of life. From our phones buzzing to the never-ending to-do list, learning to navigate them with grace is a core yogic skill. A yoga class with a little extra wiggle can be an incredible opportunity to practice staying present and focused amidst the “noise.” Ultimately, creating a space of inclusivity is a gift to everyone. Let’s cultivate a practice that welcomes families and embraces the beautiful chaos of life. I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you think children belong in yoga classes? Let’s create a space where self-care is a family affair!

QUESTION: Will this class help me lose baby weight? ANSWER: While yoga can contribute to a healthy weight management approach, it's important to focus on overall well-being and healthy eating habits during postpartum recovery. Yoga can help you regain strength and flexibility, which can support your body's natural weight management processes.

QUESTION: How much does the class cost? ANSWER: I offer various pricing options for our pregnancy & postnatal yoga programs, including drop-in rates, class packages, and monthly memberships. Please contact me for the latest pricing information.

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