All you need to practice yoga is a little bit of floor space and a little bit of time. The floor space needs to be big enough for you to be able to lay down and stretch out in all directions. The time allotted to practicing can be anything from 10 minutes to 2 hours. No matter how short or long this period is, it should be devoted entirely to focusing on you and your growing baby.
Space
The space where you practice yoga should be somewhere that you feel comfortable and relaxed. Ideally this space is a kind of sanctuary where you can go to separate yourself from your buzzing household or “to do” list. Hopefully the space is free of clutter, bothersome noises and/or other distractions. Playing music or lighting a candle can be great additional ways to help set the mood in this space. Doing yoga outdoors is also highly recommended if you have a patch of grass and some nice weather. These are all just options and suggestions. In actuality it doesn’t matter where your space is or what it looks like; the only requirement is that you use the space and the time you are in it for focusing on you!
Yoga Props and Clothing
A mat, pad, blanket, or towel can also be helpful to make sitting on the floor (or ground) softer and more supportive. Other supportive props can be helpful for relaxation, such as pillows, couch cushions, bolsters, extra blankets, etc. (You will see later how these can come into play). Don’t be afraid to get creative with what you’ve already got in your home; you do not need to go out and buy a fancy new yoga mat in order to practice yoga.
Wear any clothing that is comfortable for you and that you can move in. Many people find that close-fitting, stretchy clothing is the most supportive when practicing yoga, but you may prefer a loose t-shirt and sweatpants. This all depends on you, your body, and your preferences. You can always play around with different clothing each time to try yoga and decide what you like best.
Though you may have noticed a growing trend of yoga mats, props, and clothing being sold in your local stores, don’t let it trick you into believing that you need an expensive mat or brand name stretch pants in order to do yoga. The purpose of doing yoga is to focus on your body, mind, and individual needs; all you really need to do that is you. Yoga can be done just about anywhere and anytime. While it may be very difficult to separate yourself for even five minutes from the pressing tasks and concerns of your personal life, the effects you feel will be well-worth the effort. You deserve to take a break and do something that supports you. Those around you will also feel the positive benefits of your self-nurturing.