No prior yoga experience is needed to join our pregnancy yoga classes. The Iyengar method is unique in using a variety of props so that both mother and baby get maximum benefit without any strain. The postures exercise the spinal column relieving lower back pain and stengthening the pelvic floor while alleviating tiredness and tension.
The Iyengar approach creates space within the uterus ensuring proper blood circulation and adequate room for the baby to move. Pranayama breathing exercises open the chest, improve the circulation of oxygen to the blood in both mother and baby and calm the nerves. These classes are suitable for post-natal as well as ante-natal students.
Pregnancy Yoga with Harshini
Sundays from 3 October
3.45 – 5.15pm
£15.00 for members / £17 for non-members.
Pregnancy Yoga FAQ
Is it safe to carry on my yoga practice as usual during my pregnancy?
Until your tenth week of pregnancy you can attend regular yoga classes but you must inform your teacher as some poses should be avoided. Between 10 and 15 weeks, you should not attend classes even if you are an experienced Iyengar yoga practitioner.
At what stage in my pregnancy can I attend this class?
You must be at least 16 weeks into your pregnancy to attend this class.
Do I need prior experience?
No, you do not need to have practised yoga before.
What else should I bear in mind?
Students with any existing medical condition (knee pain, neck pain, high blood pressure etc) should consult their doctor before enrolling. If you have a health problem, come 5-10 minutes early to talk to the teacher before class. If your baby is in an unusual position, you must inform the teacher.
What should I wear to class?
You should wear comfortable loose clothing that allows teachers to see your body, including your feet and legs. Most students wear leggings or shorts.
What can I expect in the pregnancy yoga class?
Pregnancy yoga classes are designed to help you throughout pregnancy to enjoy a state of wellbeing and to prepare you for birth. Iyengar yoga is very precise and safe. You will learn how to work with supports to get the maximum benefit from each yoga pose.
When should I stop practising?
Most women can practise up to the last week of their pregnancy.
What about the classes I have left on an existing course or a yoga card?
You can take them later, after you have had your baby.
How long should I wait before returning to class?
You can come to pregnancy yoga classes after six weeks if your birth was normal, or wait 10 to 12 weeks if you had a C-section or other complications. When you return to any class, you must inform your teacher that you have had a baby.
Harshini Wikramanayake
Harshini grew up in Colombo, Sri Lanka and since leaving in her late teens has lived, worked and studied in Toronto, New York and London. She started practising Iyengar yoga in 1997 and began her Teacher Training at IYMV, gaining her Introductory Certificate in 2006 and Level 3 in 2015.
Harshini has studied with the Iyengar family on four occasions in Pune, and continues to attend weekly classes with Senior Teachers. In addition to her yoga teaching vocation, Harshini has trained as an Ayurvedic Medical Practitioner. Harshini has MSc and BSc degrees in Ayurvedic Medicine to complement her MBA and Honours Business Administration degrees.
