A Holistic Approach to Maternal Child Health From a Wellness Expert

By Jess Bevilacqua
CEO, Founder & Lead Instructor, Opal Moon Yoga & Wellness

A primary pillar of holistic maternal-child health engagement is treating the whole person by providing easy access to personalized wellness resources. In maternal health, supporting mothers through their journey—from prenatal to postpartum and into early childhood—is essential for improving health outcomes. Holistic healthcare empowers mothers to take an active role in their well-being, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.  

In this blog, wellness expert and founder of Opal Moon Yoga & Wellness, Jessica Bevilacqua, discusses the importance of holistic practices, such as yoga, during the perinatal journey and how these practices can be integrated into a care plan. 

The Correlation Between Holistic Health Practices and Perinatal Mental Health 

The key to a successful maternal health engagement strategy is promoting both mental and physical well-being throughout a mother’s journey. Several studies have shown that incorporating yoga and meditation into a maternal health care plan can offer numerous benefits for both mother and baby.  

• Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Yoga emphasizes mindfulness, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques, which can significantly reduce stress and anxiety—common challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Lowering stress levels not only supports mothers’ mental health but can also lead to healthier outcomes for their babies. 
• Increase Physical Strength: Yoga promotes strength and flexibility, which can alleviate common discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as back pain and muscle tension. Certain yoga poses are also beneficial for strengthening the pelvic floor, helping to prepare the body for labor and recovery. 
• Enhance the Mind-Body Connection: Yoga helps mothers develop a deeper awareness of their bodies, allowing them to better understand their needs. This increased mindfulness empowers them to prioritize self-care during a busy and often overwhelming time. 
• Rest for the Weary: Many women experience sleep disturbances during and after pregnancy. Incorporating yoga into their routine can improve sleep quality, helping mothers feel more rested and better equipped to care for their little ones. 

Integrating Yoga and Other Holistic Health Practices Into Care Plans 

Integrating yoga into maternal care plans has proven to be beneficial. For instance, prenatal yoga classes might include specific poses like cat-cow for spinal flexibility or child’s pose for relaxation, which can help address physical discomforts. Postpartum yoga can focus on gentle movements that aid in recovery and bonding with the baby. 

Overall, incorporating yoga into maternal health care plans creates a supportive framework that addresses both physical and emotional well-being, benefiting both mothers and their children. While we can’t stop stressors from arising or change the many challenging circumstances that may emerge during the prenatal and postpartum journey, equipping patients with simple practices for daily mindfulness can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Opal Moon Yoga & Wellness has partnered with GoMo Health to offer virtual yoga classes that focus on gentle, restorative practices. These classes are designed to help expectant and new mothers reconnect with their bodies and find balance during this transformative time.