Ante-Natal Yoga 
Ante-Natal Yoga is a wonderful way to support your pregnancy and prepare physically, emotionally and spiritually for your labour. Using classical as well as modified and original yoga postures (asana), flowing sequences (vinyasa), breathing techniques (pranayama), sound work, relaxation and meditation, we aim to maintain health and well-being throughout your pregnancy. Your yoga practice may help to prevent and ease backache, cramps, high blood pressure, oedema and anxiety.
A regular yoga practice allows us to make a deep connection with our body, our breath and our energy (prana). It is this connection, forged gently and subconsciously over time, that allows us to birth lightly. It is recommended, therefore, to commit to regular attendance as far as is possible.
I believe that the more informed we are, the better we can prepare for whatever life throws at us. I endeavour to unravel the mysteries of pregnancy and labour during the classes, giving lots of information, along with advice on Optimal Foetal Positioning – essential for getting your baby into the correct position for labour.
In the classes we will cover a variety of Breathwork that can be useful for Labour, for lowering blood pressure, calming and relaxing, energising and focussing. The posture work will train your body to understand what position you feel comfortable in, and that you may wish to use for your labour. There are gentle hip openers, back stretches, standing postures for strength, balances and flowing sequences to improve the circulation. A relaxation or meditation technique at the end of each session allows you to access deep reserves of energy and bring about a profound sense of calm. Massage techniques are sometimes introduced in the classes. There is a session using Birthing Balls, one introducing Optimum Foetal Positioning and one on Labour. There is also the opportunity to attend a Half Day Birthing Workshop with your Partner. Birthing Workshop
About the Tutor
In 2004 I was asked to teach an Ante-Natal/Post-Natal Yoga class to clients at SureStart in Balsall Heath. After 6 months I appreciated the need for specialist training, and later that year I qualified as a Pregnancy Yoga Tutor, after an intensive and remarkable course in Glastonbury with Wendy Teasdill. I was fortunate to be able to offer Ante-Natal Yoga classes at my local Maternity Unit at the Victoria Hospital, and was priviledged to work closely alongside the amazing, dedicated Midwives who staff this very special unit. Although I have since expanded the classes out into the community, I have continued to foster this relationship.
Classes Divine Works can offer ante-natal yoga classes in Lichfield and Barton, Burton-on-Trent. It is recommended that you attend regularly to gain the most benefit from your practice.
Day | Time | Venue |
Mondays | 9.30 - 11.00am | The Conservatory, Curborough Craft Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield. WS13 8ES Directions to the Conservatory |
Thursdays | 6.45 - 8.00pm | Shingles Room, Barton Village Hall, Crowberry Lane Barton-under-Needwood. DE13 8AF |
Costs 
Classes are £7.50 each, payable in 4 weekly blocks of £30, until you reach 37 weeks gestation, when you pay weekly as you attend. First class can be a 'drop in and try' at £7.50.
Ante-Natal Yoga tuition is also available on a one-to-one or small group basis. Please enquire about rates and availability.
What to Bring
Please bring a yoga or exercise mat, a pillow and a blanket in winter months. There may be some mats available for use. Occasionally we may do a session using birthing/gym balls. These can be an invaluable tool for late pregnancy as well as labour.
Pre-Class Advice
It is recommended to attend Ante-Natal Yoga after Week 14. Please advise your Midwife or Ante-Natal Care Giver that you are attending the class.
If you would like to book onto the classes, please Call or Email with the date you would like to join.
Tel: 01283 712434
Email: divineworks@live.co.uk