Compared to the first trimester, the second trimester seems to have gone by in a flash. The body seems more used to the baby and is a lot more accommodating than it was in the first trimester. So although I never really had a bad phase, I have just begun to enjoy my pregnancy more in the second trimester since it is a lot more easier to tackle.
I seem to be enjoying my workouts also far more than in the first trimester, although I have noticed that I tend to become breathless faster now given the bodies increased oxygen requirement.
My Mom advised me to brisk walk for at least 45 minutes every day. She explained that an active lady is more likely to have a normal delivery. In fact she has advised me to workout twice a day i.e. 45 minutes brisk walk in the morning & evening as I progress into the third trimester. I’ll be honest, haven't really done that diligently.
To convince me further she made me read a few articles that clearly mention that studies have shown that if a woman is physically active during pregnancy she is likely to boost the brain development of her child. Honestly, this has been my motivation to work out & the reason why I try and squeeze in at least 3-4 days of exercise each week. The rains in Mumbai have however only made my task more difficult. Those of you familiar with Mumbai would know that it can rain for days at end in Mumbai with no trace of sunshine, so there go my plans of brisk walking.
Hence I had to look for an alternative, thats when a friend recommended Lara Dutta’s pregnancy yoga video available on youtube. Given the fact that I used to practice basic yoga before pregnancy, I found the video quite easy to follow. In fact the exercise are well spaced & well explained in the 35 minute video. Refer to the link given below.
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| Easy to follow, Lara Dutta's pregnancy yoga video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44fYnoSLL3c |
Just a word of caution, I would recommend you check with your doctor before you start on any exercise regime. If you have issues such as low lying placenta or other problems, some exercises may not be suitable for you.
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| At the one day yoga session held at Saket city hospital, they give you an easy to follow handout along with the option of recording the session in class |
Also during a recent trip to Delhi (my hometown), I happened to attend a yoga class at Saket City Hospital. This a one and a half hour session conducted by a trained instructor under the guidance of a gynaecologist, where they show you various Asanas that you must incorporate in your daily exercise routine. You are encouraged to bring your better half along, who could make a video for you while you practice yoga as a reference for the future. The session was simple & all exercises were very well explained with variations that one could perform as one progressed to the second and third trimester. The Yoga instructor and the gynaecologists also interacted with the expecting mothers and addressed any queries we had. If you stay in Delhi, I would surely recommend this one for you.
I think its about finding one activity to keep you fit and active as your progress towards easy childbirth and a healthy baby.