Episode 39: Prenatal Yoga and Preparing for Birth with Sarah Ezrin

In this episode Gina and Roxanne welcome yoga teacher and author, Sarah Ezrin, to discuss the role of yoga in prenatal fitness and preparation for birth. Throughout the discussion, the trio tackle topics such as the importance of empowering mothers to understand where and when they may need modifications, and recognizing when a movement may or may not be suitable- rather than focusing solely on what NOT to do. They delve into understanding the pelvic floor, the importance of both internal and external rotation, and how yoga can contribute to either facilitating or impeding labor progress. The episode wraps up with Sarah sharing her book, 'The Yoga of Parenting,' which intends to guide parents through body mindfulness practices and to help them stay connected with themselves and their children. 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Meet the Hosts: Gina and Roxanne 01:19 Introducing Sarah Ezrin: Prenatal Yoga Expert 02:06 Sarah's Journey into Yoga and Parenting 02:59 The Importance of Prenatal Yoga 03:33 Sarah's Personal Experience with Prenatal Yoga 04:36 The Challenges of Prenatal Yoga Classes 05:40 Understanding Core Work During Pregnancy 07:16 Empowering Pregnant Women with the Right Information 07:34 The Importance of the Pelvic Floor in Pregnancy 18:37 The Need for More Postpartum Support in Yoga 22:06 Modifying Yoga Poses for Pregnancy 23:19 The Role of the Core and Pelvic Floor in Pregnancy 26:43 The Misconceptions of Core Work 28:00 Redefining Core Movements 28:57 The Impact of Yoga on the Pelvic Floor 30:14 The Role of Yoga in Pregnancy and Labor 32:19 The Importance of Internal Rotation in Yoga 34:42 The Impact of Yoga Postures on Labor and Birth 41:52 The Need for a Balanced Yoga Practice 48:49 The Yoga of Parenting: A New Perspective 51:07 Closing Remarks and Recommendations ----- Find Sarah's Website Here: https://sarahezrinyoga.com/ Find Sarah's Instagram Here: https://www.instagram.com/sarahezrinyoga/ ----- This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ And we are sponsored by Crossover Symmetry, world-class training and equipment for pain, fitness & performance. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEFIT for 20% off your equipment package.