Let’s face it: as a new mom you have a lot on your plate! Your body has just been put through the wringer and is still healing. You are adjusting to a new sleep(less) schedule and dealing with the demands of feeding and caring for your new baby. With a flood of hormones taking over, you may find yourself overwhelmed and lacking motivation to venture outside the house.
However, making time for yourself and getting out is so crucial to your mental and physical well-being. Mommy & Me Yoga classes are one of the best things a new mom can do to feel better overall.
Here are 7 reasons every new mom needs to consider taking a yoga class with baby!
Bond with baby
One of the main reasons for taking a Mommy & Me class is to explore ways to bond with your new bundle of joy. Sure you spend plenty of time with baby at home, but setting aside a specific amount of time each week to get out and try some gentle, playful stretches will help you learn get to know each other better while providing a sense of security for baby.
Increase brain activity
I’m sure you’re familiar with pregnancy-brain — but what about mommy-brain? It’s pretty much the same thing. A sleep deprived mama can become quite forgetful. Spending some time in meditative yoga poses helps increase brain activity and help your short-term memory get back on track.
Increase strength & energy-levels
One of the most obvious benefits of yoga is the physical activity and exercise it provides. Carrying a baby around all day can put a strain on your back. Learning strengthening poses and stretches can help restore balance, improve posture and increase your waning energy levels.
Improve sleep
The breathing techniques and meditative state practiced in yoga classes can help you sleep better at night. Research has even shown it to help combat insomnia. But guess what? Not only does it help mommy get some much-needed Zzzs, attending a yoga class has also been shown to help babies sleep better. Win-win situation!
Alleviate gas and colic in baby
Did you know that there are a number of physiological and developmental benefits for babies who practice yoga, besides just the sleep benefits? Yes! Yoga stretches and poses can help baby practice gross and fine-motor skills while aiding in digestion, constipation, gas and even colic!
Fight postpartum depression
Let’s face it. Postpartum depression is real and can affect any new mom flooded with hormones and dealing with the reality of caring for baby alone, once friends and family have left the hospital. Staying active and connecting with other moms and babies through yoga classes can help combat those feelings of loneliness and depression.
Socialize
Joining a Mommy & Me class provides the opportunity to meet and build friendships with other moms going through very similar emotions and experiences. It’s the perfect way to let the babies socialize with one another, while mommies share stories, connect and get support!
Where to find a Mommy & Me yoga class
If you’re interested in taking a yoga class, check the local listings in your area first. A good place to start is doing a quick search online for studios nearby. You can also check with your hospital to find some recommendations.
Of course one of the best ways to find things now a days is through social media and word of mouth. Ask around and you’ll surely discover a Mommy & Me class not too far away!
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Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.
Amee says
Awe I love the idea of a yoga class wish I had done this when my babies were little.
Ana says
Thanks Amee! It’s such a great way for moms to engage with their little ones! I took my little ones to classes and they loved them. Glad to know there are many classes kids can take as they grow too!
Theresa @DearCreatives says
I used to love doing this with my daughter when she was little. It’s perfect for boding & exercising.
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