Before I was pregnant if you asked me what poses I'd be practicing daily at 31 weeks pregnant, I probably would have said "Supta Baddha Konasana" or "Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose"... I certainly would not have mentioned balancing poses like Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose), Vrksasana (Tree Pose), or Virabhadrasana III (Warrior 3 Pose). But with 15 extra pounds on my belly, more flexible joints, and a body changing faster than I've ever experienced in my life, I can't get enough of the very poses that I would think should be the most challenging--the poses that most teachers would caution me to practice next to a wall just in case my changing center of gravity causes me to waver. And they feel effortless.
In fact, I couldn't feel better.
It's a beautiful metaphor for life now and what's to come in my life. When I shift from Triangle Pose to Half Moon, it's a reminder that I am strong enough to balance this growing baby, my practice, and whatever craziness life puts in my hands. I can do it!
What poses empower you right now?
Spinal flexing Kundalini style, Trikonasana (always!) and Danurasana.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you're still rockin' it on the mat, but I'm not surprised :)
xoxoxo
I'm surprised! Not that I'm still practicing, but at the poses that I'm drawn to right now. :) But I'm loving every second of it!
DeleteErica, congratulations! I can't tell you how excited I am to hear your news. Warrior III was easier for me when I had a big belly. The extra weight anchored me to my center. I'll keep going with advice on my blog. Don't hestitate to email me with questions. I still can't get enough of talking about babies.
ReplyDeleteYou go mama! Is that pic of you?
ReplyDeleteCongratulations - we love your posts!
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Its good to know that being pregnant does'nt stop us to find balance. A lot of expectant moms would surely find this very helpful.
ReplyDeletei felt the most powerful continuing ashtanga (very modified) through 40 weeks. all the vinyasas - sometimes with knees down or skipping them between postures - gave me super strong arms with the added weight. my prenatal class was great too. lots of squatting!
ReplyDeleteSo a pregnant can go Yoga. Nice post.
ReplyDeleteRaquel
I would love to see my pregnant wife do this.
ReplyDeleteMichael
what a beautiful post! i have a good friend (and yoga teacher) who is pregnant now, and she positively glows when she's in the yoga studio.
ReplyDeletegreat blog - glad i found you via yoga journal. i always like to connect with fellow yogi bloggers : )
cheers!
cailen
www.lifestylemaven.org