A Postnatal guide with a difference

I decided I wanted to write Strength Through Yoga after the birth of my son.  I found the postnatal exercise advice confusing and lacking.  I wasn’t clear on what you could and couldn’t do, how long you had to wait after birth to begin exercising and what warning signs you should watch for. 

In 2017 I approached Finola Burrell to write it with me.  Finola is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist and without a doubt the best Physio I have ever seen.  She sees women for a multitude of problems after they’ve had children. These problems don’t necessarily start immediately postpartum. Women see Finola with symptoms that can be linked back to when they were pregnant years ago.

Women’s health physiotherapists in the NHS (and private) are amazing, but unfortunately postnatal care is an area that does not get as much funding.  Therefore, the much needed information for mums is not passed on and sometimes never discussed.  We are both very passionate about educating mothers on postnatal issues so they can exercise safely and effectively.

Your body goes through so many changes during pregnancy and birth and it is common to have certain symptoms and conditions. However, this does not have to be your new normal.  After you give birth, the information online can be confusing and contradicting, and so we are hoping that our guide will help to dispel some myths and encourage women to feel strong and healthy in a safe and effective way through yoga.

Breakdown of the plan

Strength Through Yoga is not just an exercise guide on how to get a sixpack and fit into your pre-baby jeans. In order to feel your best, we know you need to work with the mind as well as the body – the deep muscles as well as the larger superficial muscles.  We I have written a book that is bespoke and evidence based.  Through it we aim to help mothers feel strong in both mind and body.

The book guides you in what you can do from day zero (think pelvic floor and anxiety reducing breathing exercises and meditation), to necessary strengthening exercises and vital stretches in those early weeks. Then, following your doctor sign-off, it sets out 8 weeks of yoga inspired circuits designed to increase strength, flexibility, and to help with weight loss. Each circuit will take around 30 minutes, 3 times a week.  A time efficient programme for busy mums!

In addition, we provide advice on a number of common post pregnancy conditions and symptoms like diastasis recti and prolapse – shedding some light on issues which can be hard to talk about and giving you information on what you can do to help.

Find out more

The ebook is available to buy now. Click here to find out more!