Exercises for Pre Conception and the First Trimester
These exercises focus specifically on strengthening the muscles which come under the most pressure doing the last two trimesters, namely the deep core abdominals and the pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these muscle groups will help to support your body through the extra weight of pregnancy and make recovery afterwards much easier and quicker.

Unfortunately these exercises cannot be taught after 12 weeks (although if they are practiced before, they are safe to do throughout pregnancy) and are therefore not included in the pregnancy classes. The exercises are simple but do require specialist teaching. If you find out in time I strongly recommend a one- off private session in where I can teach the exercises in detail.

Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation Classes Yoga and pregnancy really are a match made in heaven. There is no better way to maintain your health and well being and to prepare your body and mind for the birth. The yoga is simple and gentle with the emphasis of nurturing rather than challenging and is completely suitable for all woman including those with no yoga experience. My classes - which are endorsed by Penwith midwives - usually include a discussion on a relevant topic such as nutrition, natural pain relief, labour breathing techniques, active birth positions, post natal care, breast feeding advice and more. The class always ends with full relaxation which is usually what the body needs most. For many of the woman that come a very important part of the class is being with other pregnant woman, sharing and learning from each others experiences and creating friendships that continue into motherhood. There are never any guarantees with child birth but doing all you can in pregnancy to prepare yourself mentally and physically gives you the best chance of a positive birth experience. So many woman ring me up after their births, even if it didn't go to plan and say how much the yoga and breathing helped.

Benefits of yoga in pregnancy Prevents and alleviates bad backs Encourages pelvis to open in preparation for birth. Improves sleep Guides baby into optimum position Aids relaxation Improves breathing technique for coping with pain Maintain healthy pelvic floor Connect with the pregnancy Helps you stay fit and well Empowering

A Workshop for pregnant women and their partners
Research shows that a positve birth supporter can really make a difference to a womans experience in labour.

This workshop aims to give birth supporters a good understanding of the labour process and of a womans changing needs throughout so that he can then meet her needs and support her effectively.

We will discuss the stages of labour and the importance of being relaxed and also go through the birth breathing technique. I will teach a pain relieving massage which is great for contractions.

We willl explore active birth positions and their benefits. We’ll also look at ways of dealing with problems that may arise, how to speed up a labour and where is best for you to have your baby. Check Workshops and Retreats for the date of the next session.

*Water Pool for Hire*
If you are planning a home birth you can hire a 'birth in a box' birthing pool for just £30. Whether you use the pool to ease the contractions or to actually give birth in, the water can really help you stay relaxed.

Birthing balls are also available to hire and I have many books that can be borrowed.

Postnatal Yoga
The main aim of the classes is to share a joyful, fun time with your baby. celebrating our babies for the amazing individuals they are as well as enjoying the support of being in a group of other mothers.
The classes include yoga and singing for the babies, yoga for you, some yoga to do together and of course some relaxation.
There will be time for a cuppa and catch up afterwards.
Benefits Include;

For You:
An opportunity to stretch, strengthen and relax your body. focusing on those areas specific to a post natal woman. We'll work to strengthen your abdominal muscles, align the pelvis, lengthen the spine, open the chest and relax the shoulders
the classes will also help to support the bonding process and give you more confidence in handling your baby and understanding their needs.

For Baby:
Improved digestion
Helps to settle and improves sleep patterns
Balances and harmonises body systems
Conbributes to development of brain and nervous system
Enhances communication between mother and baby

For details on class times or to book a private session, please contact:
Leif Olsen on 01736 369578 or contact her via email: leifolsenyoga@googlemail.com