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Ma Yoga: The Yoga of Birth: A Comprehensive Labor Prep Class & Training

Course program

The Yoga of Birth by Ma Yoga is a doula-led childbirth preparation class and prenatal teacher training that approaches birth through the lens of yoga. Across six sessions, two experienced birth and postpartum doulas guide participants through movement, breath, meditation, and mindset tools for an empowering, trauma-informed, non-judgmental birth experience.

No prior experience is required. The program suits pregnant people who want knowledge and tools to approach birth their own way, as well as yoga teachers and birth practitioners looking to deepen how they prepare and support students and clients before, during, and after birth. It also welcomes anyone drawn to an empowering, trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach to birth.

The course moves through a six-session journey. Early sessions cover how to receive support, assembling a birth support team, the stages of labor, choosing a birth location, and finding inner and outer strength. Later sessions explore yoga poses and alignment to release tension and keep labor flowing, how the nervous system can help or hinder labor, and breath, meditation, and mantras for an easeful birth. Participants study the pros and cons of common birth choices and interventions, including epidurals and cesareans, so they can make informed decisions. The training also addresses empowerment meditations, birth as a rite of passage, creating a birth plan and birth intentions, newborn procedures, breastfeeding, and yoga for postpartum healing. Common conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are covered alongside ways yoga can help address them.

The class is led by two experienced birth and postpartum doulas. Melanie Wachsman is a Certified Ma Yoga RPYT Instructor who volunteered two years in Labor and Delivery at Cedars-Sinai, with further training in breath work, pre/postnatal nutrition, hypnobirthing, and lactation. Rachelle Luczynski has taught prenatal yoga since 2003 and works as a birth and postpartum doula, treating prenatal yoga as therapeutic labor preparation.

The format is hybrid. Participants get instant on-demand access to six video sessions and join live Zoom gatherings (Wednesdays and Saturdays) for personal support, alongside ecoursebooks, birth guides, a private online community, and personal pre- and post-birth coaching. The program totals more than 20 hours of live and on-demand training. On-demand-only enrollment is also available for self-motivated learners.

Completing the program awards 12 Yoga Alliance CE credits, which can also be applied toward Ma Yoga’s Registered Prenatal Yoga Teacher (RPYT) certification path. Graduates leave equipped to prepare for their own birth and to support pregnant students and clients.

Meet your teacher

Melanie Wachsman

A birth and postpartum doula with Ma Yoga who volunteered two years in the Labor and Delivery Department at Cedars-Sinai. A Certified Ma Yoga RPYT Instructor with additional certifications in breath work, pre/postnatal nutrition, hypnobirthing, and lactation.

Read more about Melanie
Melanie Wachsman

Host reviews

  • Daho S.

    The Ma Yoga prenatal teacher training was wonderful. Jessica Jennings is a supportive and inspiring instructor. My personal yoga practice deepened with the alignment principles, and I gained much knowledge and insight to share with others.

  • Maureen F.

    I felt called to prenatal yoga as a mother of four and grandmother of four. The course was not only filled with knowledge, but it also touched my heart. The Ayurvedic teachings and guidance from the Five Sacred Steps provided wisdom that resonated deeply with me.

  • Colleen H.

    This is the best prenatal teacher training program around. Extensive and gives you the added business support to create your own pre and postnatal yoga business in your community. Outstanding.

  • Ann-Christin Görtz

    The Prenatal Certification Program with MaYoga is a wonderful opportunity for personal and professional development and growth. The MaYoga approach to life can change your whole perspective on life. I heartedly and fully recommend Jessica's program!

  • Heather J.

    While my certification through Ma Yoga was entirely online, I felt so connected to Jessica and those training with me. The most helpful part was the ma yoga mentorship where I recorded myself teaching and was able to get feedback from an experienced teacher.

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