BB (Before Baby) my relationship with yoga constituted the primary focus in my life.

I discovered it in early 2002 while recovering from a lengthy illness, when I needed the space to focus on physical well-being in a quiet, centered way. What I discovered was the doorway to a healthy head that began with working out the kinks in my back and knots in my hips.

A few months into it all, Ken would send me off to class with a reminder that – if we worked on hips that day – I was supposed to tell him so he could plan to work late. I laugh now, but it was true. Hip work brought out the worst in me emotionally. But, eventually, yoga became the salve rather than the spoon stirring the pot and we both loved it.

The zen buzz and quiet space gave me the chance to truly enjoy pregnancy. It was my time to bond with our daughter in a very intimate way, something that looking back upon I consider priceless.

I totally admit that my struggles with motherhood early on including a hard whack of postpartum depression entirely derailed that yoga practice. But, the time I spent on the mat still allows me to work out a few kinks and refocus on those days when life is in overwhelm mode.

So, when you run down the list of mama workout options, yoga is most definitely in there. What momma doesn’t need some Zen in all of chaos?

Here’s Patti to share some perspective on why:

Throughout a childs’ lifetime, the opportunity for them to participate in recreational activities with Mom are many and varied, but the very first year is critical and the very first opportunity to recreate together starts in the womb.

One of the most valuable and popular programs to experience while pregnant is pre-natal yoga. Pre-Natal yoga programs are designed to allow for the mother to gain physical and emotional strength, while the child within gains a sense of calm and confidence. This quiet practice allows for precious time during which Mother and child can relax, breathe and focus on the new and exciting days to come, together.

Following the birth of a child, yoga programs are also an ideal venture for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual activity, in a supportive and caring environment – a great way for Moms to release the tensions of new parenthood, gain elusive relaxation time and build strength and muscle.

As early as 4 weeks post natal, Mom and babe are encouraged to join in.

Gentle poses to strengthen the body, relaxing poses to relieve stress, tension or fatigue, and playful poses for Mother and newborn to enjoy together fill the room that is designed to meet the needs and flexibility that new moms require.

Once a child begins to crawl and has that desire to explore more of the wonder and joy of the world, Diaper Gym programs are the next step for Mother and child being together.

Diaper Gym is a facilitated free play time with a variety of preschool gym related toys, mats, balls, and other parents and tots in a safe and sensory-activating environment. Developmentally, a baby’s first year is remarkable, and scheduled uninterrupted activity time together is invaluable for both Mother and child to share.

Together with Comox Recreation, Mother and child can experience any one of these programs, by calling 339-2255 or visit www.comoxrecreation.com

You can also find pre- and post-natal mom/baby classes through Courtenay Rec, Comox Valley Aquatic Centre and Black Creek Community Association. There are several private yoga studios in town that occasionally offer prenatal and postnatal classes as well. (If you know of any that are currently offering classes, please leave a comment.)