May 1st Pose of the Day: Forward Fold
My yoga practice has changed in a lot of ways since the day I found out about this little guy, but during my pregnancy I committed myself to yoga every single day. Some days that was a sweaty modified vinyasa class and some days it was 15 minutes of gentle poses on the living room floor. One thing was consistent- I ALWAYS felt better after yoga. Now I spend my days (mostly) at home by myself with six-week old Max. We have a lot of time where it’s just the two of us, and although he is by far the best thing ever I would be lying to say I’m not exhausted. This challenge from Dhyana Yoga floated my way and I thought if I’m going to be tired regardless I might as well try to resume a daily yoga practice…
Earlier this week Max and I attended a Yoga Babies class at The Yoga Garden on South Street in Philadelphia. It was awesome to connect with other new mommies and their little ones, plus I am so thankful to learn a thing or two about how to practice yoga with a sweet but demanding baby (call me naive but I kind of expected to plop him on a blanket next to me and watch him sleep for an hour).
A quiet spot to begin
Getting ready for a few poses
First things first, we set up in a comfy seat next to the mat and I nurse him regardless of when his last meal was. A full belly equals a happy baby. While he’s eating I use the time to focus on my breath. A simple count of five on each slow inhale and exhale is extremely calming and centering. When he’s done I burp him and then continue to hold him while chanting Om three times, plus anything else that feels right. The yoga babies teacher Brittany suggests Om or humming to calm a fussy baby. Next I move him to a blanket at the top of my mat. He hates this part (leaving my arms) so I keep a hand on his belly for a while and give him a pacifier. Once he starts to settle I stay near him for some cat/cow stretches. After that I have been able to practice for about 20/30 minutes as long as I talk to him and tickle him. Brittany said that babies just want to be connected to us. How sweet to think of him as a little being who wants love and connection. I might pick him up and hold him for a few poses before snuggling in for savasana. Savasana with a baby might be a reclined rest while nursing, laying him across your belly or propping him up. Today he was bright-eyed and looking for action so I propped him on my legs while listening to this song.
Legs up the wall with a very awake & alert baby
Please join me in the Pose of the Day Challenge! I’d love for you to send me links of your poses.
Does anyone practice yoga at home with a little one? Tips?
