Baby yoga is based on the principles of yoga and baby massage, and is a mutually beneficial, gentle and fun activity to enjoy with your baby.

Baby yoga enhances strength and flexibility supporting the baby’s individual development both phsyically and neurologically.

Baby yoga provides the opportunity for mother and baby to enjoy playful action that stimulates all of the baby’s senses.

Baby yoga also introduces a range of holding techniques, increasing a parent's confidence in handling their baby.

The sessions provide a chance for mother and baby to enjoy quality time and have fun exercising and relaxing together.

Baby Yoga has been developed by yoga instructor Dr. Francoise Babira Freedman - medical anthropologist, founder of Birthlight and mother of four. It is approved by paediatricians, doctors and midwives.

Class Content

The class commences with some dry massage for the baby (massage without oil, over the clothes).

The session then moves on to include moves such as hip sequences, balances, lifts, swings and holds. Songs and nursery rhythms are included throughout the session to help the babies to relax and have fun.

Some postnatal yoga for mothers is also included, allowing you to gain alignment and strength after giving birth.

The session ends with a joint relaxation for mother and baby. There is time at the end to enjoy refreshments and a chat to the other mums, giving a wonderful opportunity for you and your baby to make new friends.

Benefits for Baby

There are a number of physical and emotional benefits for the baby, these include:

Nurtures the mother- baby bonding, giving the baby a sense of security through the communication and close tactile contact.

Stimulates the digestive system helping with common problems such as colic and constipation.

Stimulates the nervous system and encourages brain development.

Develops flexibility and suppleness of the muscles and joints.

Strengthens baby’s spine and supports motor development.

Helps to improve sleep patterns.

Supports the development of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and sense of altitude.

Allows the baby to experience a vast range of movements in contrast to spending time in car seats, push chairs etc.

Offers the combination of action and relaxation, helping baby to learn relax.

Baby experiences playful fun and enjoyment with their mother.

Benefits for Parent

There are a number of physical and emotional benefits for the parent, these include:

The gentle postnatal exercises help you to gain strength and alignment after giving birth.

Baby yoga can be incorporated into your everyday handling and playful interaction with your baby.

Baby yoga increases a parent's confidence in handling their baby.

Helps you to learn to relax.

It is a good opportunity to meet other mothers in the area.

A fantastic way to exercise together while having fun.

Offers you methods to help sooth and resolve common problems such as colic and constipation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old does my baby have to be to attend?

Once you and your baby have had your 6 week check and you feel ready you can attend. Classes are from 6 weeks to crawling.

Do I need to have any yoga experience?

No, the postnatal yoga moves for mothers are simple and gentle.

What if my baby needs a feed or needs changing during the class?

These classes are relaxed and flexibile and you will feel free to attend to your baby’s needs as required. If you need to attend to your baby at any point you simply do so and join back in as and when you can

What if my baby doesn’t like certain aspects?

Baby yoga is very much baby led. Throughout the session communication takes place between mother and baby and you look to your baby to guide you. You quickly get to know their likes and dislikes and how to tailor baby yoga so you both get the most from the experience. 

What do I need to bring?

Anything you might need for your baby such as changing, feeding equipment.  Also ensure you wear comfortable clothing as you will be spending time on the floor with your baby.

How much does it cost?

The cost is £36 for a block of 5 classes. The cost includes refreshments and handouts. This fee is payable upfront to secure your place. I regret that fees are not refundable for missed classes.

I have several friends with babies can we form our own baby yoga class?

Yes. I am happy to teach small groups with a minimum number of four people. I will try to find dates and times that suit the group and would usually teach small group in my own home in Warfield.

How do I book?

To book: email Sarah@babyyogis.co.uk or call 07840 707435

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