Question: I keep hearing about the benefits of taking a pre-natal yoga class during pregnancy, and I really want to take a class. But, I can’t find any prenatal yoga classes in my area. Is it OK if I just take a regular yoga class?
Answer: Go ahead and call the yoga studio that’s offering a “regular” class. Since some instructors aren’t aware of how to modify the practice to be safe for pregnant women, they may not feel comfortable with you in their class. Others are comfortable with pregnant women in class; it just depends upon the instructor. Your best bet is to check to see if there is a “gentle” yoga class available. Yoga poses that pregnant women should avoid include poses that work your abs, inversions, deep twists, and deep forward bends. So, when you’re in class, just keep that in mind. Namaste!