5 Places to Try Postpartum Yoga

I try to tell every new mother I encounter in the East Bay that if they accomplish one thing during their maternity leave, it should be attending a mom-and-baby yoga class. (After 6-8 weeks of healing, of course.)  It’s a reason to leave the house, a place to meet other moms, and no one bats an eye if you need to breastfeed, or even just lay down for a minute to take deep breaths.

Bonus points for anyone who tries postpartum yoga at multiple studios before her baby turns one.

This post is sponsored by Brilliant Births in Berkeley, a supportive space for growing families in pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Offerings span from birth education and parenting prep to wellness at every stage, promoting your vision for birth and parenthood in each new era.

Mom & Baby Yoga in the East Bay

Brilliant Births (Berkeley)

Brilliant Births offers yoga and dance classes designed for every body, in every stage of parenthood. Pre-crawling babies are welcome in most classes. There are playmats for them to lie on, and options for poses that include your baby. Chest carriers are recommended for dance classes. (Currently, babies cannot attend Stretch and Strengthen classes nor prenatal-only yoga classes.) Each class is $28, with discounts offered when you buy multiple classes at once. {510} Families readers can get their first class FREE with code BRILLIANT510. 1809 4th Street, Berkeley.
Classes and schedule >

Green Yogi (Berkeley)

This postnatal practice will provide a space to know your new body after birth. The class will always begin with a check-in time so you may connect with the other new parents practicing with you. The practice includes conscious core and pelvic floor work, shoulder and chest opening, gentle flow and ends with a restorative time. This class is parent-focused, but pre-crawling babies are welcome. The class is offered on Wednesday as of this writing.
Classes and schedule >

Berkeley Yoga Center

Yoga and mindfulness for postnatal students.  A gentle movement and breath practice in support of finding space, strength and ease in the body, mind, and heart. A time to connect with yourself, your baby, and other parents. Mindfulness for everyday life is a part of each class. Taught by Angela and Yury.  ($25/class). 2121 Bonar Street, Studio C,  Berkeley
Confirm schedule and rsvp via email >

Yogalayam (South Berkeley)

The post-natal yoga class at Yogalayam is offered once per week. It includes infant massage instruction and mother’s helpers on hand to comfort fussy pre-crawlers.1723 Alcatraz Ave, Berkeley.
Classes and schedule >

Nourish Osteo & Wellness (Oakland)

In a dedicated Postpartum Nourishment class, parents and babies gather in a circle to promote community building. Movement instruction is designed to be healing and nourishing with a focus on breath and yoga poses that support the postpartum body and all the new changes that come with being a new parent from holding your baby to carrying heavy car seats around. Learn more >

Vita Yoga (Oakland)

This Rockridge studio offers daycare during all 9:30 am classes, Monday through Friday. In addition to booking the class you want, book “Childcare” on the class list for an additional $5.
6034 College Avenue, Oakland.
Classes and schedule >

Honorable Mentions

Yama Kids Yoga (Berkeley)

This kid-centric yoga studio offers yoga classes primarily for kids, however, Saturdays bring Family Yoga for all ages – even newborns are welcome to lay on a mat! If you are excited about sharing yoga with your child, keep Yama Kids in mind. If you’re looking for a quiet place to be coached on postpartum-specific yoga, save this one for a year and join toddler yoga after your child turns two!
2631 Ashby Avenue, Suite A, Berkeley
Classes and schedule >

Fit4MOM 510 (Multiple Locations)

Outdoor group fitness classes hosted by Fit4MOM 510 may include some yoga options and definitely include babies. Learn more >

Thanks to Brilliant Births for sponsoring this post. Try a free class by signing up with promo code BRILLIANT510 >