Yoga when TTC

[goldenpineapple]

I thought about putting this on the Conception board, but I think there might be more specialist knowledge in here! Any advice much appreciated.

I am currently trying to conceive for the first time and finding it anxiety provoking. I have suffered with anxiety and depression in the past, and finding yoga & meditation about 5 years ago were my key to starting to be really well for long periods of time. I even went to India and did a teaching training course a few years ago, which was life changing and incredible. I had a strong daily practice for about a year after this, and did a bit of teaching. Unfortunately, my practice has slipped what with one thing and another and I'm finding it hard to motivate myself back into it.

I go to a class each week, which is Hatha Flow - but I have not been going during the TWW as my anxiety is telling me it might stop implantation happening/cause an early miscarriage. Is this ridiculous? I emailed my teacher about it, and she said its fine to keep coming until I actually know I'm pregnant - but I can't get it out of my mind that it might have adverse affects. Her English isn't great, so I'm worried she didn't understand the bit about the two week wait. At the same time, obviously yoga is so helpful to alleviate anxiety - so its a bit of a catch 22 situation.

I know I am probably just obsessing and should try to get on with life, and yoga, as normal until I actually know I'm pregnant but I'm finding it really hard. Thank you for any advice.

[Loraline]

I find yoga does so much for my emotional well-being as well as my physical well-being, both of which are good for TTC. I found it helped me stay grounded and relaxed and also helped me focus on the strength my body has and let me trust my body would do what it could.

I've definitely never heard of there being any reason to stop when TTC, although I'm no expert but if it helps you relax then definitely keep going.

[Loraline]

Also I found a really lovely 20 min 'fertility yoga' video on yogaglo.com that I did. Made me feel very positive about it all.

[yogiannie]

I have never heard about yoga preventing conception

so I would also suggest continuing with (relaxing) (nourishing) (restorative) classes while you TTC

I am sure the relaxation and breath work will only help to supprot and settle your bodymind during this process

wishing you well

[CoteDAzur]

If anything, yoga will help you relax and that will help.

[goldenpineapple]

Thank you all for replying. Loraline, I may look for a fertility yoga video online, sounds like a great idea. I need to find that trust in my body again.

yogiannie, I had been thinking of finding a restorative or yin class to go to in addition or instead of the flow - and I'm going to start practicing nadi shodhana daily again as I know how much difference it can make. Also going to find a kirtan to go to regularly if possible as just doing a little chanting this afternoon by myself has lifted my spirits.

Cote yes, you're right - I think I already knew it but just needed telling!

Thanks again all, setting intentions to be as kind to myself as possible and get back on that mat :)

[CoteDAzur]

You can also freak out your DH/DP by doing a headstand after sex to help his wigglies towards the target

[goldenpineapple]

Haha, good plan - have to admit to having already gone one up on the bum on pillow and been practically in shoulder stand in bed (I know, I know, it makes no difference!) - I think the headstand might be one step too far - but I like your thinking and it cheered me right up

[Loraline]

By the way, if you're in London keep an eye on the Life Center schedules and see if Una Dinsmore-Tuli is running her Womb Yoga workshop. I did it while ovulating and TTC for DS and conceived that month! (totally unscientific and probably irrelevant but it made me feel good to go)

[sphinxster]

I did yoga classes 3 times a week and a little bit at home while ttc and throughout my pregnancy. My yoga teacher only started adapting the poses for me in the third trimester. Not sure if I've completely missed the point and don't really know what hatha yoga is, so apologies if this is totally unhelpful.

[SmellOfPythonInTheMorning]

My teacher says to only back off a little during the 2WW if you have an extremely strong yoga practice (of the likes of 3rd Series Ashtanga, or similar). I wouldn't worry too much.