My Prenatal Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Strength
Nothing could have prepared me for the life-altering words, “you’re pregnant with twins.”
Naively, I believed my high pain threshold and determined mindset would sail me through this unexpected journey seamlessly. Little did I know, the reality was far more complex than I could have imagined.
As an inherently active individual with a background in dance and performance, I turned to exercise when faced with the news. I sought information on exercising safely during pregnancy, eager to maintain my routine. However, complications arose. Placenta previa, coupled with excruciating pelvic girdle pain, back pain, and the growing bump disrupting everything, became my new norm.
Navigating conflicting advice from various healthcare professionals added to the overwhelming nature of my situation. Each specialist seemed to offer a different perspective, leaving me feeling uncertain and anxious about what lay ahead. The burden of excruciating pelvic girdle pain rendered me nearly immobile, limiting my ability to stand for more than a few moments. The relentless back pain coupled with the unbearable pressure from the bump made every day an arduous challenge.
Both my twins were in breech positions, causing discomfort as they kicked into my nerves. Hospital visits became routine, yet the persistent reassurance was that I wasn't in labour; it was merely my ligaments tearing.
Later, the discovery of a broken rib and Twin 2 shifting to the transverse position added further complexity to an already trying situation.
Entering the hospital with crutches, I pondered if I’d ever reclaim my former fitness level. Following a C-section, my postnatal recovery proved to be an uphill battle. Dealing with a painful umbilical hernia, despite attempts to repair it and incorporate mesh, didn’t alleviate the issue. Ultimately, a full muscle repair for Diastasis Recti, involving a significant incision from hip to hip and comprehensive muscle repair, became necessary.
The recovery was long, painful, and compounded by the challenges of lockdown, disrupting normal support systems. Mental health struggles intensified, prompting me to disconnect from social media for over a year to focus solely on my recovery.
The challenges I encountered during this pivotal time led me to seek a new path.
Motivated by my own struggles and a deep desire to support others facing similar journeys, I embarked on a transformational journey of my own. It was a turning point that led me to retrain as a specialist women's yoga teacher.
Since January 2021, I have had the privilege of proudly supporting hundreds of women on their pregnancy and postnatal journeys.
Each step forward in guiding others through their struggleshas been incredibly rewarding, empowering, and deeply fulfilling.
This journey has been a remarkable one, and the pinnacle of this experience was the honour bestowed upon me.
Being named the PRE / POST NATAL TRAINER OF THE YEAR 2023 in the Scottish Health & Fitness Awards was a moment that filled me with immense gratitude.
It affirmed the dedication, passion, and tireless effort I've poured into supporting women during these crucial stages of their lives. Following this recognition, I was extended an invitation to join the Yoga bellies teacher training programme—an opportunity that I embraced wholeheartedly.
This incredible development has allowed me to further my reach and impact by becoming a Senior Yoga bellies teacher. Now, I not only guide and empower women directly but also contribute to the training and development of Yoga bellies teachers worldwide.
The ability to share my experiences, provide guidance, and impart wisdom gained from personal challenges has become an essential part of my journey.
It’s an honour to be able to contribute to the growth and empowerment of women globally through yoga, mindfulness, and specialised teachings tailored to the unique needs of expecting and new mothers.
I find nothing more fulfilling than supporting women throughout their pregnancies, providing them with tools, guidance, and a supportive community to navigate this transformative journey.
For those interested in embarking on this empowering path together, I'm thrilled to announce that my new block of pregnancy yoga classes will commence on January 18th in Buckie at The Health Haven.
If you are ready to join us on this incredible journey, I invite you to book your spot here.
Additionally, for a deeper insight into my journey from a challenging twin pregnancy into becoming a pregnancy teacher, you can listen to my podcast episode:
