Yoga Instructor Jessica Diễm.
From surprise and worry to overwhelming joy, Jessica Diễm’s journey to motherhood goes beyond nutrition and exercise. It’s a voyage of self-discovery, unconditional love, and profound connections formed through every breath and heartbeat, including those initial gentle kicks in the womb. And somewhere along this journey, there’s a husband quietly learning to become a father, embracing every little detail.
Jessica Diễm, could you share your emotions upon learning about your pregnancy?
To be honest, the moment I found out I was pregnant was one of the most extraordinary moments of my life. Initially, I was taken aback, my heart raced faster than usual, and then I felt overwhelmed with happiness. It wasn’t just good news; it was a turning point that transformed my life entirely. I also felt anxious about whether I was ready for this journey and if I could be a good mother. But soon after, I realized that motherhood isn’t a destination but a path of learning, loving, and growing alongside your child. I immediately shared the news with my husband, as I couldn’t wait another second! When I said, “Honey, I’m pregnant!” he paused for a few seconds, ensuring I wasn’t joking. Then his eyes lit up, and he hugged me tightly. It was an unforgettable moment filled with laughter and happy tears.
As a yoga instructor, you must have had excellent health habits before becoming pregnant. Could you share the lifestyle and exercise routines that contributed to a healthy pregnancy?
Prior to my pregnancy, I maintained a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet, regular yoga practice, and a positive mindset to prepare for this extraordinary journey.
However, the first trimester was challenging. I experienced morning sickness and had days when I lacked appetite and felt more exhausted than usual. Instead of worrying, I chose to listen to my body, rest when needed, and adjust my pace. Yoga remained an integral part of my routine, but I shifted to gentler practices, incorporating meditation and breathwork to relax, reduce stress, and foster a deeper connection with my baby.
The key realization during this journey is that no pregnancy is perfect, and you don’t have to feel energetic all the time. What matters most is maintaining a peaceful mind, embracing your body’s changes with gratitude, and savoring every moment.
Did you make any adjustments to your yoga practice during your pregnancy? Which poses did you find particularly beneficial for pregnant women?
I felt my body changing daily, and yoga served as a bridge, helping me listen to, understand, and adapt to these changes gracefully. Instead of focusing on strength or flexibility as before, yoga during pregnancy became a journey of connection—connecting with myself and the baby within.
Some poses I found particularly relaxing and nurturing are:
– Cat-Cow Pose: This pose improves spinal flexibility, alleviates back pain, and brings a sense of ease to the body.
– Seated Meditation with Deep Breathing: Each breath serves as a bridge connecting mother and child. With every deep inhalation, the baby perceives the influx of oxygen and positive energy I transmit.
– Warrior II Pose: Besides strengthening the legs and improving balance, this pose instills a sense of fortitude—a preparation for the sacred journey of motherhood ahead.
– Child’s Pose: This pose allows me to embrace myself, relax completely, and gently soothe my body and the baby within.
In addition to poses, meditation and breathwork (pranayama) deepen my connection with the baby. Each time I place my hands on my belly, close my eyes, and breathe slowly, I sense the baby growing inside me, forming an invisible yet loving bond.
Yoga not only promotes physical well-being but also fosters love between mother and child from the earliest stages. With every curled-up relaxation pose and deep breath, I remind myself, “Mother and child, we’re in this together.”
Some people worry that yoga during pregnancy might be dangerous. What are your thoughts on this perspective? What are some essential considerations for pregnant women practicing yoga?
I understand that many expectant mothers are concerned about yoga during pregnancy, but in reality, when practiced correctly, yoga is not only safe but also a wonderful gift for both mother and baby. It’s not just a form of exercise but a way to connect with your body, understand its subtle changes, and, most importantly, feel the presence of your baby with every breath.
However, to practice yoga safely during pregnancy, pregnant women should consider the following:
– Listen to Your Body – Pregnancy brings different experiences each day. There will be days when you feel energetic and others when you just want to rest. Respect your feelings and approach your practice with a gentle, non-pressured mindset.
– Avoid poses that compress the abdomen, involve deep twists or inversions, or require excessive balance. Pregnancy is a time to cherish your body, not challenge its limits.
– Don’t overstretch, as the relaxin hormone increases flexibility but also heightens the risk of overstretching and injury.
– Focus on Your Breath – Each deep breath not only relaxes you but also connects you to your baby. When I inhale slowly, I imagine that airflow transmitting energy and whispering love to the baby.
– Opt for prenatal yoga classes or work with an instructor who can guide you – This ensures a suitable practice regimen, promoting both physical health and preparation for childbirth.
Aside from yoga, did you adopt any specific diet or health care methods to ensure a smooth pregnancy?
Everything I do, eat, and feel directly impacts my baby. So, I not only take care of myself but also consider how to nurture the baby within.
Nutrition-wise, I prioritize fresh, nutrient-rich foods. It’s not just about my health but also about how each meal becomes a source of nourishment for the baby. I consume a variety of nuts, grains, green vegetables, fruits, and high-quality protein from fish, eggs, dairy, and nutritious seeds. On days when morning sickness makes eating difficult, I opt for smoothies and juices for better absorption. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as water aids in blood circulation, provides oxygen to the baby, and maintains my health.
However, beyond nutrition, a mother’s mental state directly influences the baby. On days when I feel joyful and relaxed, I sense the baby kicking gently, perceiving my serenity. Thus, I strive to maintain a positive mindset, allocate time for meditation, breathwork, listening to soothing music, and reading books on prenatal education. Those moments of placing my hand on my belly, conversing with the baby, and sensing every tiny movement… I believe they forge the first loving bond between us.
Many expectant mothers are interested in yoga but unsure where to start. Could you share some simple exercises they can do at home?
Currently, I’ve created a yoga series specifically for expectant mothers in their second trimester, available on the Daily Yoga with Jessica YouTube channel. These gentle practices help maintain health, enhance flexibility, and foster a loving connection with the baby in the womb. Before each session, I aim to provide a daily mental boost, helping mothers feel comfortable, relaxed, and empowered to embrace their pregnancy journey. Pregnancy is a unique phase, and yoga not only strengthens the body but also brings mental balance, infusing positive energy into each day. However, every mother has a unique physical condition and constitution, so always listen to your body and consult your doctor before practicing to ensure safety and suitability.
As someone with a healthy lifestyle, what advice would you give to expectant mothers to promote a healthier and happier pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a time when your body undergoes daily changes, and instead of controlling or setting strict standards, I’ve learned to listen to and cherish myself more. Eat well, favoring fresh and nutritious foods, but without forcing yourself. When I feel tired, I rest without guilt, knowing that a happy and healthy mother is the best gift for the baby.
Rather than comparing or worrying excessively, I opt to savor every moment. A gentle melody, an engrossing book, a short meditation session, or simply conversing with the baby—these things bring me peace and deepen my connection with the little one in my womb.
And remember, mothers, pregnancy flies by, so I always remind myself to slow down and relish every tiny movement of the baby. From those initial kicks to the daily growth, every moment is precious.
How has your husband supported and accompanied you throughout your pregnancy? Is there any memorable moment between the two of you that you’d like to share?
This journey has taught me that when a woman becomes a mother, the man by her side learns to become a father. And my “forever friend” has shown me this in the most natural, sincere, and loving way.
He’s not one for flowery words, but he’s always attentive to the smallest details. Knowing I get hungry easily, he keeps snacks in my bag. Aware of my sleep challenges, he researches various pregnancy pillows, ordering one after another until I find the most comfortable one. These little things amount to immense care.
Every night, instead of reaching for his phone, he sits by my side, rubbing my back and massaging my feet. But what touches me the most is how patiently he converses with the baby every day. Before bed, he places his hand on my belly, asking the baby if it’s been good, if it’s tired Mommy, and if it knows how much Daddy longs for its arrival. These simple words warm my heart the most. This journey becomes even more meaningful as I witness him maturing into his role as a father.
Pregnancy is an emotional and transformative journey. Is there a particular moment during your pregnancy that moved you the most and made you feel the profound miracle of motherhood?
If there’s one moment that made me truly comprehend the sanctity of motherhood, it was the first time I felt the baby kick—a small moment encapsulating a grand miracle.
Previously, I never envisioned having a baby. My life was filled with plans, adventures, and unfulfilled dreams. But then the baby came and captured my heart in ways I’d never imagined.
On that day, as I lay still with my hand gently resting on my belly, I felt a slight movement—a gentle greeting from the baby. I held my breath. Was it the baby? Another kick, stronger this time. In that instant, my heart burst with joy. Mother and child—two bodies, two hearts, yet connected by an invisible yet unbreakable bond. For the first time, I truly sensed the baby’s presence, feeling it grow inside me day by day.
A love that needs no reason or condition—a love that simply is, protects, and sacrifices.
Lastly, is there a quote or philosophy that has guided you throughout your pregnancy journey?
Pregnancy is a wondrous transformation, where a mother not only carries life but also learns to embrace, patiently accept, and forgive herself. There are days of overwhelming joy as you sense the baby growing, but there are also moments of exhaustion and worry. Every change, be it physical or emotional, is part of the magic. And what matters most isn’t perfection but listening to yourself, cherishing each moment, and believing that your love is the most miraculous nourishment for your child.
Thank you for sharing your story!
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