LEWISTON — HealthSteps, part of the prevention and wellness services offered through St. Mary’s Health System, will offer prenatal yoga from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Aug. 26 through Sept. 23, in the Lepage Large Conference Room at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, 99 Campus Ave. The cost for the class is $50.

The class is geared
for women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Heidi L.
Hayes-Audet, RYT, will guide expectant mothers through the five-week class, where they will learn postures and breathing techniques
to invite deep relaxation, conquer fatigue, stretch, strengthen and
prepare their changing bodies for childbirth. Students will also have
an introduction to a guided meditation practice.

The benefits of yoga during pregnancy are numerous. Proper breathing
and yoga postures can help normalize blood pressure, reduce stress,
relieve discomfort in the spine, strengthen pelvic muscles, expand the
pelvic cavity and strengthen the entire reproductive system. In
addition, prenatal yoga can help guard against excessive weight gain,
increase hemoglobin count, normalize thyroid functioning, stimulate the
pituitary gland to release prolactin-essential for lactation control
and may enrich breast milk. 

Yoga students need to bring a pillow, one to two blankets, a yoga
strap and a water bottle. Participants should wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid
eating a heavy meal an hour before class. 

Preregistration is
required and participants should consult a healthcare provider before attending any
yoga classes. No prior yoga experience is necessary.  

For more information or to register, call HealthSteps at 777-8898 or visit www.stmarysmaine.com. 

 

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