As many of you may know, I have been practicing Ashtanga yoga throughout my pregnancy, and it has been an incredible journey so far, filled with joy and gratitude that I have never experienced before.
I practiced mainly in the Mysore room of The Shala Dubai which is filled with magical energy. There is a place for me and the babies to practice as one and join in the music of people's ujjayi breath, which has made my approach to pregnancy a reflection of joy and freedom, in contrast to the feeling of restriction and fears that many women experience during this time.
To be honest, it hasn't always been sunshine and rainbows. I have encountered some challenges, such as nausea, tiredness, body aches, body image issues, and the thought of giving birth and becoming a mom. However, throughout all the changes I have experienced, one constant has been this magical practice. I feel fortunate not to have any complications or conditions preventing me from being active and doing the things I enjoy, including practicing yoga daily. Although my practice has had to be modified as my belly has grown, I have been able to go deep into a few postures and even go upside down. I know that being able to do these poses does not make me a better mother or woman; I simply enjoy them and like to do them. What matters most is that the practice keeps me positive, active, mindful, focused, calm, and connected.
Some people have judged me for practicing "too much" or doing things that they believe I shouldn't be doing while expecting. However, I firmly believe that pregnancy is an individual journey, and each woman's experience is unique. What works for one may not work for another. For me, practicing yoga has been a source of strength and empowerment.
As I near the end of my pregnancy, I have learned the importance of non-attachment or Aparigraha, the last Yama in Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga. Letting go of the asanas that I used to do has not been easy, but it has taught me to drop my ego and focus on what is best for my body and my babies. I have also learned not to be attached to my physical body shape or the numbers on the scale. Every time I see the number on the scale increase or look in the mirror and see how my belly is growing, I remind myself of the miraculous process that is happening in my body and feel tremendous gratitude. I have come to realize that I cannot control everything, and my body and my babies will dictate what I can and cannot do. This has been a humbling experience that has taught me to surrender and soften.
As I prepare for birth, I am experiencing a mix of emotions. While I am incredibly excited to meet my little ones, I also feel a sense of anxiety and fear. I have decided to slow down, surrender, and soften in the remaining weeks before birth. This may be a challenge for me, but I trust that my Ashtanga practice has prepared me for this moment.
I am grateful for the support of the Shala Dubai community and my teacher, who have inspired and encouraged me throughout my pregnancy. Although I miss practicing in the Mysore room, I will be taking this time for myself and my babies.
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