For many, inversions (turning yourself upside down) are a favorite part of their yoga practice. One that has many benefits, including improving blood flow, calming the nervous system, and balancing hormones.

In Prenatal Yoga classes, gentle inversions, such as legs to the wall or Supported Bridge, are often included. They help relieve tired legs, aching feet, and swelling caused by pregnancy, the added weight, and changes in circulation.

Even yoga teachers disagree about advanced inversions when pregnant.

To Invert or not to Invert?

Others who prefer to be safe recommend that inversions should not be practiced during pregnancy. Some people suggest that advanced inversions be avoided after five months to avoid confusing your baby.

Others believe it is up to each woman to make the decision. If she feels good inversioning prior to her pregnancy, she should continue. Some ask, ‘Why take the risk?’

Instagram shows that many women continue to do inversions up to the day of delivery with no issues. It is unlikely, however, that advanced inversions will become a standard part of prenatal yoga classes any time soon.

Remember This

There is no clear answer to whether or not you should incorporate inversions into your yoga practice during pregnancy. However, most yogis, specifically those with prenatal experience, would agree that there are a few key points.

It would be best if you did not try new things during pregnancy (your body is already creating life!) It’s already making life!

Yoga is an excellent way to stay in tune with your body during pregnancy, which is why so many women are drawn to it.

The risk of injury increases during pregnancy because hormones relax ligaments and tendons to make room for the baby’s growth and to prepare for delivery.

Surrender and letting go of ego-based objectives are essential for pregnancy and motherhood. It would be best if you also considered the benefits as well as the risks before deciding whether or not to continue practicing inversions.

Benefits

Inversions are beneficial to pregnant women. Here are a few of them!

The reversed flow of blood brings oxygen-rich blood to your brain and helps you to improve your concentration.

Stimulates the lymphatic system, which is important in keeping the immune system healthy and removing toxins.

Calms the nervous system, creating feelings of calm and balance.

Inversions can also improve digestion, balance hormonal levels, stimulate the throat chakra, and promote sleep.

Risks

Inversions can also be dangerous, so protect yourself and your baby by being cautious!

Falls due to a lack of core strength or blood pressure changes.

Overtraining is caused by hormones that relax tendons and ligaments.

Inverting the baby may cause it to be upside down, but this hasn’t been proven.

Changes in blood pressure can cause nausea or vomiting.

In the end, it’s up to each mother to determine what she and her child need on the mat. The practice of listening to your intuition will help you during pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood.

Do you have any experience with inversions? Please share your insights with us!