Something that has probably been most important in getting ready for the arrival of Baby Zopp has been prenatal yoga. I started weekly prenatal Kundalini yoga classes at 25 weeks. Kundalini yoga focus on the chakras, meridians and breathing. There has also been gentle stretching, but a sole focus on breathing. One of the best exercises we do in class is creating discomfort through postures that require small repetitive movements. My favorite one to breathe through has been arms straight out to the sides and flapping them for 3 minutes. All of the exercises we do to simulate a contraction are 3 minutes because no contraction is longer than 3 minutes. With eyes closed and looking upward it helps to focus the mind and open communication with the baby (working on meridian lines). I have also taken this practice into my swimming. It helps to practice working through discomfort and fatigue.
Now, at 39 weeks, it's waiting for the little one to arrive. I hope that all I have been doing will make labor manageable. Nick and I took parenting and labor classes when I was about 30 weeks, but I feel that the education I have learned in yoga will serve me much better. It has been helping now, as I've become anxious to meet Baby Zopp. She will come when she is ready, but I hope it is soon!
