Pregnancy & Bikram Yoga
A look into the possible benefits of practicing Bikram Yoga while pregnant
I would like to first explain that much of the information provided is gained from my own experiences as well as from other mothers I have spoken to.
To date, there is no documented scientific evidence to support or disprove the effects of Bikram Yoga on the pregnant body.
This information is not intended to replace medical advice. Each mother must listen to her own body and gut feelings – you know your body and your baby best.
1. is it safe to do Bikram Yoga for the full term of my pregnancy?
Yes, if you meet the following criteria:
• You have been a regular practitioner of Bikram Yoga. My recommendation is at least 6 months to 1 year of 3-5 days/week of regular practice prior to becoming pregnant. In other words, you know the series, you know how your pre-pregnant body responds to the yoga, the hot room, etc.
• Your pregnancy is low-risk.
• You feel comfortable and have discussed it with your health care provider.
If you are concerned about practicing in the first trimester (during which time the natural rate of miscarriage is the highest for any pregnancy), then you can practice at home without the heat until the first trimester has passed. In fact, you can practice the yoga with the pregnancy modifications at home for your entire pregnancy if desired.
Bikram’s wife, Rajashree, has developed a pregnancy series for the Bikram Yoga class. She has removed any postures that are contra-indicated for pregnancy and has provided modifications. Her DVD is sold at both Bikram Yoga Vancouver locations. Bikram and Rajashree recommend commencing the pregnancy series at around 12 weeks gestation, or earlier if desired. Personally, I began the pregnancy series at around 8 and then 7 weeks gestation for my first and second pregnancies, respectively.
You can practice Bikram Yoga in the heated classroom for as long as you feel comfortable during your pregnancy. For example, I stopped practicing in the heat at around 39 weeks gestation, and continued to practice at home until my first child was born at 42 weeks gestation. At 39 weeks, I just felt warm enough to do it by myself at home.
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