March 2024 Student of the Month

Katalin

Tell us about yourself?

My name is Katalin but everybody calls me Kat.  I will turn 40 this August. Im new to motherhood. I have a 13 month old baby girl named Aurora who is super energized and happy go lucky baby. I was born In Hungary where I was a world class Discus thrower Track and Field Athlete and got recruited by Auburn University in 2005 where I become an NCAA champion.  I transferred to University of Southern California in 2008 where I continued my Athletic career and Graduated with Graphic Design degree in 2010. Continued to train for the Olympics in 2012 where in a middle of a practice I got a career breaking knee injury and I retired in 2012. I speak Hungarian and English and I learned Spanish. I would like to make sure my baby speaks 3 languages by the time she grows up. Now Im a stay at home mom with couple businesses. I run my own Design and Print business: Creative Mate Design (www.creativematedesign.com) and as I become a mom Girl mom I struggled to find like super cute but huge chubby bows for my girl so I made her some the way I liked them and it took off from there and started her Bow business Aurora Lana Co. (www.auroralanaco.com). 

When did you start taking classes with PYLV?

I started taking Baby and Me Classes back in August-September 2023, as I was trying to get back to being active, and  where I was able to involve my daughter as well.

What have you learned since taking classes with PYLV?

I learned that we are not alone in this journey and we have a great community that we can go to and feel welcomed and accepted the way we are without any expectations. 

What is your favorite yoga pose?

My favorite pose is child pose to receive the stress from my lover back. 

How has your practice impact your parenting?

I learned to let go of a lot of expectations towards what motherhood is, and to be more present and centered to give my baby the calm and non judgmental space she can grow and thrive in. 

What would you tell a new parent considering taking prenatal or baby & me yoga classes?

Its an amazing experience As a new parent or even someone who is not a first time mom its a great community and like-minded moms who just there to support each other and build a community. As well as you can get great little workout while you pregnant and after you give birth gives you a safe place to bring your little ons where they can play and socialize while you connect with other moms and break a little sweat in thread the needle pose!:)

February 2024 Student of the Month

PYLV Student of the Month

February 2024

Joannalyn
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Tell us about yourself?

My first name is Joannalyn but I go by Jo, I am 34 years old (turning 35 this June), I have one kid and his name is Ben Mateo and he is 5 months old. I was born in the Philippines and moved to the states when I was 15 years old. I have lived in many different states: GA, CA, NJ, OK, and NV. My professional background is in personal and commercial insurance before I switched over as a full time SAHM. I speak fluent Tagalog (Filipino) and English. I am learning ASL to teach my son as well.

When did you start taking classes with PYLV?

I started taking classes with PYLV during my 2nd trimester of pregnancy which was around March 2023.

What have you learned since taking classes with PYLV?

I have learned so much since taking classes with PYLV but one of the things that stuck to me is that having a strong group of women during pregnancy and motherhood is very important. Sharing stories and experiences with other moms definitely make it very enjoyable.

What is your favorite yoga pose?

My favorite yoga pose is the tree pose.

How has your practice impact your parenting?

My practice has impacted my parenting tremendously. The strength I have now - mentally, physically and emotionally is amazing.

What would you tell a new parent considering taking prenatal or baby & me yoga classes?

Go for it! If you’ve never tried yoga before - do it! The community is so welcoming and supportive of each other. The best thing about joining PYLV is finding new mom friends for you and new baby friends for your baby.

The Unexpected Benefits of Prenatal Yoga: More Than Just a Stretch

Prenatal yoga is not just about maintaining flexibility and staying active during pregnancy. It offers a multitude of unexpected benefits that can significantly enhance your journey to parenthood. Here are five unexpected benefits that could completely transform your pregnancy experience:

1. Empowered Birth Experience.

   One of the most remarkable benefits of prenatal yoga is the empowerment it provides for your birthing experience. Yoga equips you with powerful breathing practices, which can help you stay calm, focused, and centered during labor and delivery, regardless of how your birth unfolds. It's all about being prepared and confident, no matter what comes your way.

2. Community of Parents.

   In today's busy world, many new parents find themselves feeling isolated and lacking the much-needed support system. Prenatal yoga classes provide a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who are on a similar journey of parenthood. The friendships you form in these classes can become your rock during the ups and downs of parenthood, creating a strong support network for you and your child.

3. Muscle Strength for Endurance.

   As you progress through pregnancy and prepare for the physically demanding task of childbirth, building and maintaining muscle strength is vital. Prenatal yoga helps you develop the necessary strength and endurance, not just for the birthing process but also for everyday activities like carrying heavy car seats, making your transition into parenthood smoother.

4. Improved Sleep.

   Ask any expectant mother who has attended prenatal yoga classes, and you'll likely hear that better sleep is one of the most commonly reported benefits. The relaxation and stress-reduction techniques incorporated into prenatal yoga can lead to more restful nights. When you're well-rested, you can better cope with the challenges that come with pregnancy and parenthood.

5. Combat Perinatal Mood Disorders.

   Perinatal mood disorders, refer to a group of mental health conditions that occur during pregnancy or in the first year after childbirth. Perinatal mood disorders include, postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-complusive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychosis. These disorders can affect both mothers and fathers and is the most common complication of pregnancy and birth.
   
   Prenatal yoga offers more than just physical exercises; it provides a holistic approach to well-being. Pregnancy can bring forth various emotions, and perinatal mood disorders are a common concern. Yoga, with its stress reduction techniques, introspective practices, and mindfulness exercises, acts as a powerful ally.

In conclusion, prenatal yoga is not just about poses; it's a holistic journey that empowers you physically and emotionally. The unexpected benefits go far beyond flexibility and serve as valuable tools in your preparation for parenthood. So, if you're expecting, consider joining a prenatal yoga class for these incredible advantages and a happier, healthier pregnancy and postpartum experience.