Why is 360 degree / diaphragmatic breathing so important?

When newborn babies breathes, their little belly rises and falls. But as we grow up, our lives become busier, filled with all sorts of pressures, and our breathing becomes quick and shallow. During pregnancy, maintaining a steady and deep breath is incredibly important for both the health of the mom and the baby.

Here are the benefits of breathing exercises :

1. Easing Stress and Anxiety:
   Shallow breathing can increase the release of stress hormones, affecting not just the mom's mental health but also possibly passing through to the baby via the placenta. Proper breathing exercises can help expectant moms relieve tension and maintain inner peace.

2. Boosting Oxygen Supply:
   Babies need a lot of oxygen for their growth and development in the womb. Through deep breathing, moms can ensure both themselves and their little ones are getting enough oxygen.

3. Improving Sleep Quality:
   Rapid, shallow breathing might cause moms to wake up more often during the night. Many pregnant women face sleep issues, and the right breathing exercises can help relax the body, promoting better sleep.

4. Aiding Natural Delivery:
   Learning the right breathing techniques can help manage pain during labor, increase endurance, and give more control over the deliverying process.

5. Enhancing Blood Circulation:
   Deep breathing helps increase oxygenation in the blood, promoting overall circulation, reducing common pregnancy symptoms like leg swelling, cramps, and varicose veins.

6. Strengthening the Bond with Baby:
   When an expectant mom takes deep breaths, the baby can feel the gentle rhythm of the belly rising and falling. It's a form of emotional communication, helping the baby become familiar with mom's body language, creating a calm and loving environment, and letting the baby feel mom's love and attention.

In prenatal yoga classes, besides maintaining and enhancing physical flexibility and strength, there's a strong emphasis on breathing exercises. We hope that after mastering these techniques in class, moms can apply them to everyday life, practicing them anytime, anywhere. This way, they lay a solid foundation for their own and their baby's health, cherishing every moment of this unique journey.