New Westminster has a vast variety of opportunity for people of all ages when it comes to arts, culture and fitness. One excellent resource I often find myself perusing for new activities is the New Westminster Parks, Culture and Recreation Leisure Guide. Being currently on maternity leave, this guide has provided me a door to a number of new window of activities I can try out.
After I was cleared from my doctor (post c-section) I joined the Mom and Baby Yoga class that is currently running at the Anvil Centre. I absolutely love this class. Don’t be fooled, I am no Yogi; I could count on one hand the number of times I tried yoga before being pregnant.
The class is an hour long and runs once a week. There is no age-limit for the babies however the more active they are, the harder may be for mom to participate. The instructor is a calming presence and seems to love our babies just as much as we do! She will also help adapt your yoga moves depending on your baby’s needs for the day (whether they want to be held or not).
The class starts off with singing and stretching. My daughter finds these songs to be very calming, even at home when we are outside of the class. Next we do baby yoga! The babies all seem to love this as well. Again, the songs that are sung here have become favourites for many moms and babies.
Once the babies have finished their yoga, it’s moms turn! For me, the day and my babes mood really depend on how much yoga I actually get in. Regardless I always see it as a success as I am out of the house, exercising and socializing all at once!
The class finishes of with a breathing exercise. Again, the babies appear to be mesmerized by the energy in the room.
The class is so flexible; you can join in late if you’re having a rough morning, no one is bothered if your baby happens to cry, you can feed whenever and even change a diaper!
The class is currently being held at the Anvil Centre, in one of the dance studios. The Anvil Centre is wonderful location. The concierge ladies and security always greet us with big smiles and warm hello’s. They make sure the doors stay open to ensure easy and safe passage for the stroller brigade. The Anvil centre is clean and quiet and makes for a peaceful morning excursion!
I look forward to this class every week.