It can be challenging to find time to exercise as a new mum, explains senior yoga teacher Tara Lee, who specializes in dynamic, pregnancy and post-natal yoga. Dont be hard on yourself or in too much of a rush to get back into shape. Remember, it took nine months of being pregnant, so expect it may take nine months to return back to how you were.

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Although the thought of exercising may be unappealing after giving birth, yoga can help new mothers de-stress, beat the baby blues, and ease the body back into exercise in manageable installments and here, Tara offers her top tips for practising post-natal yoga.

Her first piece of advice? Dont push yourself or exercise too strongly in the first few months, she says. You need to conserve lots of energy for producing milk. Plus, you are likely not to be getting enough sleep.

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Tara strongly recommends placing an emphasis on holistic recuperation, Its important to rest and eat well in the early months, and to focus on your recovery rather than bouncing back into shape immediately, she explains.

Its for this reason that Tara has taken on the role of Head Yogi at a brand new sanctuary, Mermaid, a residential centre opening in July 2013 that will offer a comprehensive array of services to support women who have just given birth. Tara explains that she and her team will help prepare women for their journey into motherhood with yoga and breathing techniques, and ensure they feel on top form.

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But for new mums that cant take substantial time out, there are plenty of easy-to-manage solutions to getting in shape. Taras DVDs are filled with easy exercises that you can do at home and fit into your day. She explains, I added a 10-minute quick fix section, which will be easy to squeeze into even the busiest of days. Theres also a Yoga for You and Your Baby DVD that allows women to exercise with their newborn.

Tara Lees tips forpractising post-natal yoga:

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Post-natal yoga with Tara Lee