When should I start post-natal yoga?

It is recommended that you wait at least 6 weeks after a vaginal birth and 8-10 weeks after a c-section before starting Parent & Baby Yoga Classes. Please wait until after your 6 week check and do not book if you have been advised to avoid exercise for any reason. I always offer a variety of options so you can tailor the class to your own body. I encourage you to tune into your energy levels, your own individual strength and capacity on any given day, and only do what truly feels good. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

What happens in a baby yoga class?

Great question! Have a look at my blog to learn about what we do in my parent and baby yoga classes.

I’ve never done yoga before - can I still come along?

My classes are suitable for complete beginners and experienced yogis. I encourage you to take each class at your own pace, learning how to tune in to your body and do what is right for you. You don’t need to be flexible to do yoga - it’s not about touching your toes, it’s about moving your body in a way that feels good, breathing and relaxing.

What if my baby cries/sleeps/needs fed/changed?

This class is parent-focused (i.e. for you!) but we are completely baby-led. Babies cry, they need fed, they need cuddled, their nappies need changed. It’s all fine! We go with the flow and a bit of chaos is expected sometimes!

How long can we keep coming to class?

You are welcome to attend until your baby is confidently on the move.

How can yoga help me recover after birth?

A key part of yoga is learning to listen to your body and mind and only do what feels right. Postnatally, many people feel pressure to “bounce back” to their “pre-baby weight”, and as soon as they have their 6 week check they throw themselves back into exercise. Yoga teaches us self-acceptance, compassion and kindness to ourselves and gives us a safe and gentle way to ease into our new post-baby body. That said, yoga can be a great form of physical exercise and will definitely help you build up your strength and fitness. Yoga is low impact and therefore suitable for those pelvic floor issues (e.g. incontinence when you laugh, cough or sneeze). After you’ve given birth you can start with yogic breathing techniques like the ones I teach in class, as soon as you feel ready. Your body will change a lot during birth - suddenly you no longer have the weight of the baby, placenta and amniotic fluid in your abdomen. Your organs will begin shifting back into place. You might have a bump for a while and your skin might be stretchier than before. Connecting your breath with your diaphragm is the first step to recovery. Once you feel ready, you can begin with gentle movement and pelvic floor exercises, before building up your physical yoga practice.

How do I get to St Anne’s? Is there parking?

The class is held in the Belgrave Room in St Anne's Church at the bottom of Kaimes Road. There is plenty of free on-street parking on Kaimes Road. Enter through the pedestrian gates on Kaimes Road (not the driveway), come in the glass doors, turn right, up a few stairs and the door to the room is on your right. The door will be open until the class start time. If you are running late please try to come in as quietly as you can to minimise disruption to your fellow attendees.

What if I can't make a whole block of classes?

If you have holidays or other events already planned when you book your block of classes please make sure you include this information on your booking form. I will adjust your booking to accommodate these dates.

What should I bring?

I provide mats but you are welcome to bring your own. You might like to bring a blanket and/or small cushion for your baby’s comfort. Bring anything your baby needs, including milk/ snacks/ toys/ comforters. Wear something comfortable and bring a drink of water for yourself.

Do I need a mat and what should I wear?

I provide yoga mats but you may wish to bring your own to place over mine for both comfort and hygiene. Wear anything that is comfortable and you can more freely in (joggers, leggings, loose trousers, comfy tops). Bring a bottle of water too.

Cancellations and refunds

If a class is cancelled by your teacher for any reason I will make every effort to contact you via WhatsApp or email. Any classes cancelled will be added on to the end of your block booking or given as a credit for future classes. Please let me know on your booking form if there are any dates you cannot make within your block. I will amend your class dates in advance to accommodate this. Any unplanned missed classes (e.g. last minute cancellations) will be charged in full.