These four simple exercises incorporate stretches and movements from yoga. For best results, do them every day for 10 to 15 minutes, starting after your first postnatal medical checkup. (Be sure your healthcare provider approves.) They are designed to improve your muscle tone, make you aware of good posture and increase the gracefulness of your walk. They will also strengthen your back and abdominal muscles so you can easily handle the increasing weight of your new baby. If you find it difficult to do all the exercises at one time, try fitting in two exercise periods of roughly five minutes each.
Supple Spine
Begin on all fours. Inhale. Lift your head, keeping your back straight or arching slightly (avoid strain). Then exhale, round your back, tighten abdominals, tuck in tail and head. Repeat the sequence eight times. This exercise strengthens the back and abdominals.
