A WORCESTERSHIRE mother, who used yoga throughout pregnancy to deal with pelvic discomfort and prepare for the birth of her children, is now passing her expertise on to expectant mums in the city.

Now a teacher of the YogaBellies for Pregnancy classes which are coming to the city, 33-year-old mother of two Polly Woodward has been practicing yoga for 10 years and says the balance between physical and mental exercise makes it enjoyable and rewarding.

Polly described yoga classes as her “happy place” and said: “It’s not just about exercise, but it also has spiritual benefits and can help with depression – especially post-natal depression – and anxiety.

“I fell in love with yoga straight away despite never being very interested or co-ordinated in other sports and aerobics classes. It’s an amazing way to keep fit and healthy while also being relaxed.”

Having practised yoga during both of her pregnancies, Polly understands the benefits it can have, especially for those suffering with pelvic girdle pain (PGP).

PGP is caused by the pelvis and the muscles around it starting to relax in preparation for the baby to be born. This means that the hips and pelvis become unstable due to an excess of a hormone called relaxin which relaxes the pelvis and ligaments. It is fairly common and causes pain and discomfort, in some cases - even causing women to have to use crutches and wheelchairs in extreme cases.

Having suffered with PGP herself during her second pregnancy, Polly explained how yoga helps to keep the pelvic muscles strong and so can help to ease the discomfort.

She said: “I absolutely love teaching YogaBellies for Pregnancy classes, I use essential oils and calming music to create a lovely peaceful atmosphere and I supply everything needed for each class so mums-to-be don’t need to worry about bringing any equipment.

“It’s a beautiful class and I’m excited to be moving it to a great venue in central Worcester - the United Reformed Church on Albany Terrace.”

YogaBellies for Pregnancy covers a range of themes important for all mums to help them enjoy pregnancy and prepare for birth. The classes include yoga postures suitable for pregnancy and birth, adjusted for each trimester, as well as invaluable breathing techniques for pregnancy and labour, combined with relaxation and meditation techniques that mums can also use once the baby arrives.

Polly also teaches Mum & Baby Yoga, Mum & Toddler Yoga, and YogaBelles classes for women. All classes will now be held at the United Reformed Church, Albany Terrace.

Anyone interested in more information or attending the classes should contact Polly as booking is essential. She can be contacted by calling 07940029268 or email: polly@yogabellies.co.uk