Yoga For Fertility

May 27th, 2009

Yoga for Fertility: Open to Conceive
By: Sue Dumais

Yoga originated in India more than 5000 years ago. The word yoga means “union” or connection of the mind and body. The practice of yoga, which involves breathing techniques and special poses, is designed to create physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance. Although yoga is an ancient practice, modern science is discovering its power to reduce stress and increase well being.

Yoga for fertility focuses on the centres of the body or “chakras” associated with fertility and reproduction. In particular it uses specially designed yoga poses that open the pelvis and stimulate the second chakra located just below the naval. This vital centre has long been associated with fertility and creativity.
But more than just improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, yoga for fertility helps relax the body and restore physical and emotional balance.

Acute stress is a very real part of most women’s experience with fertility challenges. Research done by Dr. Alice Domar, director for the Mind-Body Center for Women at Boston IVF, shows that for many women dealing with fertility issues is as distressing as experiencing cancer, HIV status or heart disease. High levels of stress can increase cortisol levels, alter the function of the hypothalamus gland, which controls ovulation and contribute to irregular menstrual periods. Domar’s research also suggests that mind-body techniques such as meditation and yoga can reduce stress and increase a couple’s chance of conceiving.

Guided Meditation and self reflection are important aspects of Yoga for Fertility. Guided mediation is a technique which enables you to get more in touch with your own thought processes, become aware of internal blocks and learn to let go of negative thinking and limiting beliefs associated with fertility. By learning to change your thinking patterns you can discover a new sense of control and learn to become creative and powerful in all areas of your life.

Yoga for Fertility can help you reconnect with your inner wisdom and intuition. Classes provide a safe place to share stories, wisdom, experiences, laughter and tears. Some women laugh and giggle uncontrollably in the class while others express their sadness and grief. Learning self love and acceptance helps overcome those feelings of isolation so many women experience. Just simply realizing that there are other women in similar circumstances makes you feel less alone.

Yoga for Fertility can help you reconnect with your inner wisdom and intuition. Classes provide a safe place to share stories, wisdom, experiences, laughter and tears. Some women laugh and giggle uncontrollably in the class while others express their sadness and grief. Learning self love and acceptance helps overcome those feelings of isolation so many women experience. Just simply realizing that there are other women in similar circumstances makes you feel less alone.

Although participating in a Yoga for Fertility class is ideal, there are a few DVD’s available, as well as voice guided audio classes that can be downloaded to your IPOD to help guide you through a home practice. If you would like to find a Yoga for Fertility class in your community visit www.yogaforfertilityresources.com

If you are unable to find a class in your area you could attend a restorative type yoga class. Be sure to let the instructor know you are open to conceive. I would recommend you avoid any high intensity yoga classes such as Power Yoga or Hot Yoga.

Sue Dumais is the founder of Family Passages Mind Body Studio in Vancouver, BC, where she facilitates programs to support women and couples through their fertility. Sue combines more than 15 years of experience as a fitness expert, yoga instructor, energetic healer and life coach. She is the author of “A Strong Core for Life,” and “Yoga for Fertility Handbook.” She travels across Canada and internationally to teach and lecture on the importance of healing through one’s fertility journey. Recognizing the need for more support for fertility clients, Sue has developed a Fitness Fertility Specialist Certification and Yoga for Fertility Instructor Training Course. A pioneer in her field, Sue’s Yoga for Fertility Classes, Private Yoga Therapy Sessions and “Transforming Your Fertility” classes have been instrumental in transforming the fertility experiences of countless women and couples. To learn more about Sue Dumais visit www.familypassages.ca

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