The Science of Support: Evidence-Based Benefits of Yoga & Bowen Therapy for Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a profound physiological and emotional transition. While the joy of expecting is real, so are the physical discomforts and anxieties that often accompany it. At The Centre of Bright Beginnings, my approach is non-prescriptive and evidence-based. I combine Prenatal Yoga and Bowen Therapy to support you from the first stirrings of pregnancy through to birth.

The Evidence for Prenatal Yoga

Prenatal Yoga Yoga is more than just gentle stretching; it is a powerful, evidence-based tool for maternal health. Recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses consistently show that prenatal yoga offers substantial benefits for expectant mothers.

  • Mental Health: Research shows it is highly effective in reducing anxiety, depression, and perceived stress during pregnancy, with positive impacts on overall psychological well-being and quality of life [1, 2].

  • Birth Outcomes: linked to reduced labour duration, decreased pain perception during labour, and a higher likelihood of normal vaginal birth [1, 3].

  • Complications: studies suggest it can positively influence pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, and even foster a stronger maternal-foetal bond [3, 4].

Bowen Therapy: A Gentle Approach to Pregnancy Pain

For physical discomfort, Bowen Therapy offers a non-invasive solution without forceful manipulation. It involves precise, subtle movements over muscles, ligaments, and nerves.

  • Pain Relief: It addresses common issues like back pain, sciatica, hip pain, and pelvic girdle pain by promoting fascial flexibility and spinal alignment [1, 3, 4].

  • Baby Positioning & Nerves: It can aid in reducing swelling, encouraging optimal foetal positioning for a smoother birth experience, and calming the nervous system to reduce stress and anxiety for both mother and baby [1, 2, 3].

Whether you choose private yoga sessions for a tailored practice or Bowen Therapy for physical relief, these modalities work synergistically to build resilience and joy for your birthing year.

Ready to find ease in your changing body?

If you are navigating pregnancy and feeling the strain of Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP), back stiffness, or anxiety about birth, you don't have to push through it alone.

My 1:1 Prenatal Yoga and Bowen Therapy sessions in Scarborough are designed to meet you exactly where you are - whether you need deep physical relief or a space to mentally prepare for birth.

Book a Discovery Call

References

Yoga:

1] Sharma, M., et al. (2022). The characteristics and effectiveness of pregnancy yogainterventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth,22(1), 1-13. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8957136/

2] Juniper Publishers. (2024, September 30). Benefits of Prenatal Yoga on PregnancyAnxiety and Impact on Quality of Life: A Mini Review. Retrieved fromhttps://juniperpublishers.com/jyp/pdf/JYP.MS.ID.555822.pdf

3] Rong, L., Dai, L., & Ouyang, Y. (2020). The effectiveness of prenatal yoga on deliveryoutcomes: A meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 39, 101157.https://www.tessavenutisanderson.co.uk/articles/pregnancy-yoga-research

4] Sagar, R., et al. (2023). Does Yoga impact during Pregnancy: Systematic Review.ResearchGate.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371601889_Does_Yoga_impact_during_Pregnancy_Systematic_Review

Bowen Therapy:

1] PROSPERO. (2023). Systematic review of evidence on the clinicaleffectiveness of Bowen therapy. International prospective register ofsystematic reviews. Retrieved fromhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPEROFILES/467144_PROTOCOL_20230926.pdf

2] Brisbane Livewell Clinic. (n.d.). Does Bowen Therapy Actually ProvideRelief?. Retrieved from https://www.brisbanelivewellclinic.com.au/does-bowen-therapy-actually-provide-relief/

3] Luna Lactation. (2009). Pregnancy and Bowenwork: Natural Approach forPain Relief During the Childbearing Year. Retrieved fromhttp://www.lunalactation.com/pregnancyarticle.pdf

4] MIDIRS. (2011). Bowen Therapy midwifery. Retrieved fromhttps://www.bowentherapy.org.uk/docs/articles/MIDIRS-Nov2011-bowen-midwifery.pdf

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