The right prenatal yoga class in Liverpool for a first-time mum is one where the teacher knows how far along you are and adapts for it. Shiva Yoga doesn't run a dedicated prenatal class, but Mohan, who has practised for over 50 years, leads open-to-all weekly classes and private one-to-one sessions that you can talk through with us first.
What should you look for in a prenatal yoga class in Liverpool?
Start with the teacher. Pregnancy changes your body from one stage to the next, so ask whether the teacher has pregnancy training, or will tell you honestly what they can and can't adapt.
The NHS recommends aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity a week in pregnancy, the same as for other adults. Its guidance on exercise in pregnancy also says to tell your instructor you're pregnant, stay hydrated and cool, and avoid lying flat on your back for more than a few minutes, especially after about 16 weeks.
Questions worth asking before you book
Does the teacher have pregnancy training, and who covers if they're away?
Can you drop in, or do you need to buy a block of sessions?
How big is the class, and will the teacher have time to check on you?
Is the venue easy to reach by public transport or car, and are mats and props provided?
Does the session include breathing and relaxation as well as postures?
If you have a specific condition, such as pelvic pain or a high-risk pregnancy, speak to your midwife or GP before joining any group class.
Is Shiva Yoga a good fit for a first-time mum?
We'll be straight with you: our public timetable doesn't list a dedicated prenatal class. What we do offer is weekly yoga that is open to all levels, taught at several Liverpool venues including community centres, lifestyle centres and David Lloyd Speke.
Mohan has practised yoga for over 50 years, has taught since 1987 and has been based in Liverpool for more than 25 years. Our Google rating averages 5 stars across 78 reviews, and students regularly praise his teaching. The difference is experience.
If you're new to yoga and want steady, experienced guidance, that counts for a lot. Tell us you're pregnant before you start, and we'll talk through what suits your stage.
Can a private one-to-one session work during pregnancy?
For some first-time mums, personal attention is the better choice. It can make sense if you have pelvic pain, limited mobility or health concerns, or simply want to learn breathing and relaxation at your own pace.
Shiva Yoga offers private one-to-one sessions with Mohan, online or in person. Our email and mobile number are on the website. Before booking, tell us how many weeks pregnant you are and share any advice from your midwife or GP, and we'll tell you honestly what we can adapt.
We also run monthly workshops that include Yoga Nidra, a guided relaxation practice. Ask us whether the next one suits your stage of pregnancy.
Should you choose a pregnancy-specific class or a general class?
A pregnancy-only course puts you in a group with other expectant mums, which some first-time mums prefer. Class details vary: some Liverpool pregnancy classes suit students from around 14 weeks, while others welcome every stage, so check before you book. Your midwife can point you to local pregnancy-specific options.
A general class with an experienced teacher suits you if you'd like a mixed-level setting and you're comfortable telling the teacher about your pregnancy. We'd rather you chose the right fit than a convenient one, so ask us before you come.
A calm, experienced place to begin
Shiva Yoga is a Liverpool yoga school led by Mohan, who has practised for over 50 years and taught since 1987. It runs weekly open-to-all classes, private one-to-one sessions, workshops and retreats, and its 200+ hour teacher training is accredited by Yoga Alliance Professionals UK. The school is also listed on the Yoga Alliance directory.
Our approach is simple: experienced teaching, a welcoming room, and honest advice about whether we're the right fit for you during pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Does Shiva Yoga run a prenatal yoga class in Liverpool?
Not at present on its public timetable. Shiva Yoga does run weekly open-to-all classes and private one-to-one sessions, so contact Mohan to ask what pregnancy adaptations are possible.
When can I start yoga in pregnancy?
It depends on the class. Some Liverpool pregnancy classes suit students from around 14 weeks, while others welcome all stages. Check with your midwife or GP first, and always tell the teacher you're pregnant.
Is it safe to do yoga lying on my back while pregnant?
NHS advice is to avoid lying flat on your back for more than a few minutes, especially after about 16 weeks. Ask your teacher for alternative positions.
Can I have private yoga sessions while pregnant?
Private sessions can suit you if you have pelvic pain, limited mobility or health concerns. Shiva Yoga offers one-to-one sessions with Mohan, online or in person, and we'll tell you honestly what we can adapt.
Do I need yoga experience to join a Shiva Yoga class?
No. Our weekly classes are open to all levels, so you can join as a beginner.