Yoga-Based Stress Management Among Couples during Pregnancy: A Review

Pregnancy is a transformative phase that involves profound physiological, psychological, and socialadjustments for both partners within a marital relationship. While much of the existing literature hasfocused primarily on maternal health, increasing attention is being directed toward the emotionalexperiences of couples during pregnancy. The transition to parenthood often introduces new sourcesof stress related to health concerns, financial responsibilities, role expectations, and changinginterpersonal dynamics. Elevated stress levels during pregnancy may negatively affect maternal wellbeing,partner relationships, and fetal development. Consequently, identifying effective and safestrategies for stress management during this period has become an important area of maternal healthresearch. Yoga, an ancient mind–body practice originating from Indian philosophical traditions, hasgained considerable recognition as a complementary therapeutic intervention for reducingpsychological stress and enhancing emotional resilience. Yoga-based practices integrate physicalpostures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, and relaxation exercises (Woodyard,2011; Ross & Thomas, 2010) that promote physiological balance and psychological stability. Emergingresearch suggests that yoga interventions not only improve maternal mental health but may alsoenhance relational harmony between partners during pregnancy. The present review examines existingliterature on the role of yoga-based interventions in managing stress among couples during pregnancy.The study synthesizes findings from empirical studies, clinical trials, and theoretical literature toexplore the mechanisms through which yoga contributes to emotional regulation, relationship quality,and overall well-being during pregnancy. The review highlights the potential of yoga as a holisticapproach for supporting both maternal mental health and marital harmony, while also identifying gapsin current research that warrant further investigation.