PAUL FOX: ASHTANGA Q&A Q2) Im 12 weeks pregnant and as a dedicated Ashtangi of several years, am wondering what the best way for me to adapt my practice before and after birth is? Shall I basically have to write off my usual practice for the foreseeable future? PAUL: Im afraid so. Let it go. Ashtanga is, in my opinion, the worlds greatest transformational yoga system. However, it is designed to create heat and strength, remove impurities, and create a disciplined body and mind. Nurturing it is not. Lucy Scott used to say to ashtanaga practitioners who became pregnant that they had nine months to learn how to let go of their bandha. There is anecdotal evidence that more ashtanga women give birth by caesarean section because the habit of holding and gripping internally via bandha is in conflict with the opening and surrendering required in labour. So it is advisable for you to adopt a restorative practice, nourish yourself and include plenty of hip openers, relaxation, meditation and breathing as you prepare for this magical event. Remember also that in the last few weeks of pregnancy you have a lot of relaxin hormone in your body so the stretches should be contained to avoid stretching ligaments which could lead to instability in the Sacro Iliac joint after birth – a common problem. You will enjoy the break from your practice and will be able to reconnect with it in a new way 3-6 months after your baby is born.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0000
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