Every Mama Needs a Relaxing Postnatal Yoga DVD (So We’re Giving One Away!)

I hadn’t done yoga since my daughter was born, so I was excited last week to finally take a minute to pop in Element: Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga for a nice, soothing yoga session. It was definitely relaxing…until the baby woke up from her nap. But then my yoga session got cuter, as she was in my face for all of my down-dogs and cobra poses.

My brief baby-free yoga session reminded me how important it is as moms to take a few minutes for ourselves. It’s so easy to rush around, with to-do lists miles long, caring for others all day (heck, even during my yoga session I was looking at the carpet and noticing that it needed a good vacuum), but even a few minutes to recharge, breathe and quiet the mind can be quite invigorating. I loved how instructor Elena Brower mentioned this, too, saying that taking time for yourself allows you to be fully present for your family.

The 35-minute postnatal portion of the DVD is the perfect mix of relaxation, breathing, and flowing moves that will warm you up and remind you how inflexible you are. With down dogs, down-dog splits, triangle poses, warriors and boat poses, it wasn’t too challenging for someone who’s taken a maternity leave from yoga, but not so easy that you’ll be bored. Elena is spot-on with her instruction, and I loved her modifications and tips for nursing and postpartum mothers. While I’m no longer pregnant, the 30-minute prenatal portion looks great for whole-body strength and relaxation. Elena’s instruction is again perfect, with plenty of tips for being mindful of your baby as you yoga your way to relaxation.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★★
Long-Term Likeability:★★★
Music: ★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★

Overall: ★★★1/2

Fit Bottom Line: These yoga sessions are a perfect way to unwind and relax while providing a mild yoga burn. Pregnant and new moms alike can benefit from this rejuvenating, relaxing stretch session!

Want to get your relaxation on and de-stress before Mother’s Day? Comment to win a copy of Element: Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga! U.S. residents only, please. Winners will be notified in about a week. When’s the last time you had an uninterrupted yoga session? —Erin