First Trimester Yoga: Safety Guidelines for Early Pregnancy

October 24, 2025

Pregnancy is a time of significant physical and emotional transformation. Most women are searching for safe ways to remain active, de-stress, and condition the body for what's to come. Yoga, properly practised, can be a great option. Gentle movements, conscious breathing, and properly guided poses not only help increase circulation and flexibility but also promote relaxation and balance. But yoga during pregnancy first trimester, demands special attention as the body undergoes rapid changes. Practising under the supervision of a certified instructor and closely listening to your body ensures safety and optimal benefit.

When to Begin Yoga During Pregnancy?

One of the major questions on the minds of pregnant women is: when to start yoga during pregnancy?

  • If it's your first time practising yoga: Experts recommend that you wait until after the first trimester to start a yoga practice, because the first trimester is a vulnerable time, and it is best to let your body stabilise before you consider adding new exercises to your routine.

  • If you are already a yoga practitioner: You may remain pregnant during the first trimester while practising yoga, but with necessary adjustments and with the consent of your doctor.

Experienced or not, always start slowly, do not exert excessively, and ensure that your routine is prenatal friendly.

Also Read: Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

Safe Yoga Practices in the First Trimester

Make safe practice a priority when doing yoga during the first trimester of pregnancy. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

  • Gentle movements: Use slow, gentle stretches to help promote circulation and release tension in muscles.
  • Breathe first: Pranayama (breathing exercises) regulates stress and induces relaxation.
  • Avoid prolonged back-lying positions: This could restrict blood flow to the uterus.
  •  Stay hydrated: Have plenty of water close by and avoid overheating during practice.
  • Use props: Cushions or yoga blocks can stabilise your body, but also relieve tension in the body.

These small changes not only make yoga safe, but they can also be very beneficial during the early stages of your pregnancy.

Also Read: The Benefits of Postnatal Yoga

Exercises to Avoid During the First Trimester

While yoga has many benefits, some of the poses are best left alone during the initial months of pregnancy.

  • Deep backbends and vigorous twists: They may compress the abdomen and put ligaments under strain.
  • Inversions: Headstands or shoulder stands can be hazardous due to the risk of falling.
  • Abdominal strengthening poses: Like the boat pose or deep core work, can unnecessarily put pressure on the uterus.

By skipping these postures, you minimise risks and allow your body to focus on safe, supportive movements.

Recommended Yoga Poses for the First Trimester

The first trimester is an excellent time to create body awareness and connect with your body through calming, nurturing yoga poses.

  • Marjariasana (Cat-Cow Pose): Increases spinal flexibility and alleviates back tension.
  • Tadasana (Mountain Pose): Refines posture, stability, and grounding.
  • Konasana (Angle Pose): Opens the sides of the body and enhances circulation.
  • Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose): Opens the hips and quiets the mind.
  • Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog): Engages arms and legs while extending the spine.
  • Balasana (Child's Pose): Brings relaxation and eases fatigue.
  • Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose): Promotes relaxation and facilitates circulation.

These poses, executed with sensitivity, can release tension, facilitate flexibility, and induce a sense of relaxation in the body.

Book an online appointment with Dr. Ritu Khare for Pregnancy & Gynecology related issues.

Breathing Exercises (Pranayama) during the First Trimester

Breathing exercises complement yoga by calming the nervous system and increasing oxygenation. Some safe practices are as follows:

  • Ocean Breath (Ujjayi Breath): Facilitates remaining alert and relaxed during yoga practice.
  • Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana): Harmonises both sides of the nervous system and reduces anxiety.
  • Bee Breath (Bhramari): Creates soothing vibrations that calm and induce inner peace.

These practices can be performed to help feel calm and stable throughout the day.

Safety Precautions for Yoga Practice

Bear in mind the following precautions when practising yoga:

  • Practice in a quiet, ventilated room.
  • Loose, flexible attire.
  • Avoid overworking; gentle movement is more useful than tiring oneself out.
  • Be attentive to your body; immediately stop if dizzy, breathless, or uncomfortable.

What Makes Cloudnine Different?


Cloudnine Hospital offers not only medical attention when it comes to prenatal care and good health, but also holistic programs that merge physical, emotional, and educational support for expectant mothers. When talking about prenatal yoga, it is specifically tailored and led by adequately trained yoga professionals who are knowledgeable about each stage of pregnancy. 

Cloudnine pushes for individualised care so each woman is made to feel cared for throughout her journey. Not only do they have cutting-edge technology, experts, and caring environments, but Cloudnine is an all-inclusive institution that serves as an integration of world-class treatment and comprehensive care.

Conclusion

Yoga can be an excellent way to stay active. It helps manage stress and prepare the body and mind for the upcoming months. During the first trimester, however, caution should be maintained. Choosing the right poses recommended by a qualified professional can turn a first-trimester prenatal yoga practice into a joyous experience!

Always seek your healthcare provider's approval before beginning. Join a class conducted by an experienced prenatal yoga teacher. Yoga, under the guidance of a right mentor, is not just a workout but a nurturing practice that promotes balance and well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which yoga postures do you want to avoid during the first trimester?

Avoid doing deep twists, full backbends, rigorous core work, hot yoga, and inversions as they will put you under strain on your uterus.

2. Can I do the downward dog during pregnancy?

Downward-Facing Dog can be done, but with modifications and under the supervision of an instructor. It stretches the spine and builds muscle strength.

3. When should I start doing yoga in pregnancy?

If you're new to yoga, you shouldn't start until after the first trimester. If you've been practising before, you may be able to continue during the first trimester with your feedback from your health care provider.

4. Can I do planks while pregnant?

Modified planks can be performed; however, it's essential to tune into your own body. Don't hold for too long or push yourself to extreme fatigue. Always discuss with your health care practitioner before incorporating planks into your daily routine.

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