1. Is prenatal yoga a recent phenomenon?

Yoga was first introduced into the West in the 19th century but it had a more general, spiritual focus then. Prenatal yoga has been around in the West for many years, but it is in the last 25 and particularly the last 10 years, that its popularity has increased dramatically. I haven't been able to ascertain whether it was or is practiced in India as yoga was primarily a man's thing. However, Geeta Iyengar, the daughter of B.K.S. Iyengar is dong much to change this among her people and she does address prenatal yoga in her book.

2.What type of yoga is taught in your classes?

I am Iyengar trained but I also love Vinyasa or Flow, so my class is an adaptation of the two. I have created a 1 hour 15 minute program which is currently very popular and I thankfully I have received great feedback I from my students. In the program I have used the still postures of the Iyengar tradition which encourage mind control and body strength, with a little simple Flow to get the blood circulating around the body. I also teach breath awareness - how to use the breath to control the emotions - and of course, deep relaxation is always a very important and enjoyable component of any class.

3. Any preconditions for pregnant mums to practice?

Basically, this is a question for their doctor of care giver. If the pregnant mum has her doctor's go ahead, and she wants to practice yoga, I am happy to have her in my class after her 12th week. Usually Mums only come to class when they feel well and their doctors are happy with their progress.

4. What types of yoga exercises are suited for them in the various trimesters?

First Trimester - relax and wait for the morning sickness to pass!! Get used to being pregnant - meditate and do restorative postures.