New Delhi: Yoga and breastfeeding can prove to be a valuable tools for lactating moms. It improves blood circulation, stimulates the pituitary gland, aids the secretion of prolactin and increases the production of breast milk.
Chakrasana (backbend)
Lie on your back. Fold your legs at your knees and ensure that your feet are placed firmly on the floor. Bend your arms at the elbows with your palms facing the sky. Rotate your arms at the shoulders, and place your palms on the floor on either side beside your head. Inhale, put pressure on your palms and legs, and lift your entire body up to form an arch. Relax your neck and allow your head to fall gently behind.
Bhujangasana (cobra pose)
Here’s how to do it:
Lie down flat on your stomach, with palms placed under your shoulders. Keep your feet together, with toes on the ground. Inhale and lift your head, shoulders and torso up at a 30-degree angle. Keep your navel down, shoulders broad and head slightly raised upwards. Hold the posture for 10 seconds. Slowly bring your torso down, and then exhale breath– this breathing technique is therapeutic
Padahastasana (standing forward bend)
Here’s how to do it:
Begin in samasthiti. Exhale and fold forward with your upper body. Drop your head and keep your shoulders and neck relaxed. Try to bring the trunk closer to the legs. Place palms on either side of your feet. Try to keep the legs and knees straight throughout the practice. Hold this asana for a while.
Paschimottanasana (seated forward bend)
Here’s how to do it:
Begin in dandasana, where your legs are stretched out forward. Keep your knees slightly bent, if needed. Lift your arms up and keep your spine upright. Exhale and bend forward. Try to grip your toes with your fingers. Hold the posture for10 seconds.
