puppy pose (anahatasana)

Puppy Pose (Anahatasana) helps take pressure off the pelvic floor and cervix and may relieve the pressure of haemorrhoids. It’s a great pose in pregnancy as it stretches the hamstrings, shoulders, calves and relieves back pain, headaches and fatigue. ​An energizing pose, it offers a less strenuous alternative to Downward Facing Dog.

​Starting on your hands and knees, walk your hands forward until your head comes between your forearms. Press your palms the ground, and keep your arms active with elbows and forearms lifted. 

​Avoid letting your belly drop toward the floor and know that you can spread your knees further apart to create space for baby as he or she grows. Feel as thought someone is at your hips gently pulling out and back. Head or chin can come to the floor.  Stay for 3-5 deep breaths and feel your spine lengthen and shoulders open. 

Always listen to your body and intuition while practising yoga during pregnancy and come out of poses if necessary. If you have a history of miscarriage, do not practice yoga before you are 12 weeks pregnant. If you experience any bleeding, avoid yoga until it has ceased. Never hold your breath and remember that yoga is non-competitive and always let common sense prevail.