Don’t forget to check out our brand new website – http://bit.ly/hmvparen Calf stretches strengthen calf muscles, tone hamstring and improve blood circulation, thereby preventing cramps and heaviness in the feet. Subscribe to HomeVeda Parenting – http://bit.ly/subhvp Join us on facebook – http://facebook.com/homeveda ————————————– HomeVeda Parenting – Helping women make an easy & an healthy transition into one of the most important phases of their life – motherhood. Find the right exercise routine for the pre & post delivery period, take care of your newborn & eat right – that & more; all on Homeveda Parenting & all naturally! ————————————– Calf Stretches: • During pregnancy, the body tries provide extra nutrition to the baby – Blood becomes thicker & its volume increases – Blood circulation to lower body reduces • Poor circulation leads to cramps and heaviness in the legs and feet Benefits: • Strengthens the calf muscle • Tones the hamstring • Improves circulation in the calves • Prevent cramps • Provides relief from symptoms of sciatica Exercise Technique: 1. Position yourself on hands and knees. Make sure that your knees are hip width apart and hands are below the shoulders. 2. Extend the right leg backwards and press the heel into the floor. 3. Hold for 4 counts and release. 4. Repeat with the left leg. 5. Repeat 4-8 times for each leg. 6. Remember to breathe normally throughout the exercise. Warning Signs: • Pain in the pelvis, vagina, or groin • Abdominal discomfort • Shortness of breath • Leaking fluid or bleeding from the vagina Avoid exercise in case of — • Placenta Previa • Bleeding or leaking fluid from vagina • Hypertension • Multiple pregnancies • Incompetent cervix • History of miscarriage Tips: • Avoid exercising on an empty stomach • Avoid exercising on a bed