Unless you live under a rock, you have seen Kareena Kapoor Khan flaunt her gym looks during her second pregnancy. The matching sets, comfortable footwear and vibrant patterns make her gym-look effortlessly stylish. Wearing the new, PUMA Studio Line, the queen of Bollywood doesn’t just have a pregnancy glow, but also a fitness one. She’s been doing yoga throughout her pregnancy and it has helped her stay calm, balanced, fit and healthy, even in these terrible COVID-19 ridden times. She says,
Yoga has helped me develop a heightened awareness of my body and to be honest, I just feel so much better when I do yoga.
Kareena is extremely inspiring and even more so when she is pregnant. She’s empowering women to step away from the traditional Indian pregnancy taboos to continue working as well as working out. We were lucky enough to get an exclusive interview with Kareena and discuss everything from pregnancy, positivity, to the pandemic.
MM: How have you stayed fit during your pregnancy? How has it helped you?
Staying fit has always been important to me, whether pregnant or not. It’s crucial not only for the physical well-being but also for my mental well-being. Being active not only helps you, but it’s also good for the baby. Through my pregnancy, I have practised yoga, which has helped me stay fit and lead a balanced life. That’s why my association with PUMA, especially now, makes even more sense.
MM: What did you do differently in this pregnancy as compared to your first one?
Nothing very different, to be honest. Since I have already experienced this, I must say that I am calmer this time around. I am getting to spend a lot of time with Taimur and being in his company really makes me happy. Staying happy is numero-uno when you are pregnant!
MM: Many pregnant women are scared to be physically active during their pregnancy due to fear of hurting their baby, superstitions, societal stigma and more. What would you say to them?
There are so many taboos out there and so many age-old stigmas and we all fall prey to them at some point. But, I would like to advise them to get professional help from doctors, health practitioners, nutritionists who can guide them through their journey.
MM: Considering you worked through your first pregnancy, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this one was no different. Why did you choose to continue working especially amidst COVID-19?
Of course, no one has ever faced this kind of situation ever. It was a daunting task to get back to the set during the pandemic, especially when you are pregnant. At some point, we had to get back to work, how long one possibly be locked in. I got back to work and we took all precautions to be safe.
MM: Did you ever feel anxious about being on set during a pandemic? How did you deal with it?
Working out during the pandemic has really helped me. It was a tough time for everyone with so much uncertainty everywhere. It was crucial to channel your energy positively and not let negativity take over. Yoga really helped me to stay calm and collected throughout the lockdown and it was essential for my overall well- being during the pregnancy. However, you can’t deny the fact that you do feel a bit anxious while you are on a set, given the current situation. I genuinely feel that people should be extremely careful when they are outdoors.
MM: How did the pandemic affect your pregnancy? Were there any positives that came out of it?
You can’t deny the fact that the pandemic ended up disrupting everyone’s life. It was more important than ever, for all of us, to be positive during such trying times. Of course, there were a few positives that came out of it. The renewed sense of community with people helping each other was the highlight. Also, I am glad I got to spend a lot of time with Saif Ali Khan and Taimur.
MM: Can you share your most essential tip on having a healthy pregnancy during the pandemic with our 55k strong community of women on Malini’s Girl Tribe?
The most essential tip would be to stay happy. It is important to spend time with your loved ones who make you happy. One can read and watch light stuff. While pregnancy may be daunting, do not forget to enjoy the phase.
MM: We know you don’t like squats, but can you tell us some of your favourite yoga poses to do while pregnant?
My favourite ones are the sukhasana and the standing side stretch. The first one helps one focus and stay calm. The standing side stretch reduces back pain. Back pains are very common during pregnancy.
MM: The pandemic has made everyone live in their PJs. Was this true for you too? What were your go-to outfits that made you feel confident and comfortable? D
I too was in kaftans all day, enjoying the slow life. I did dress up at times to enjoy some intimate dinners at home, but that’s about it. My go-to outfits these days have been flowy dresses and for my yoga, I always opt for the Studio Collection by PUMA.
MM: What message do you want to send out to everyone via your association with PUMA?
I really connect with what PUMA stands for. They have always pushed boundaries and encouraged women to be their unapologetic self. My association with PUMA has allowed me to connect with and encourage more women to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle. Fitness is an integral part of my life and I truly enjoy it in its various forms. It feels great to be the face of a brand you deeply resonate with.
The queen has spoken and given us pearls of wisdom, as well as motivation. Pregnancy and fitness go hand-in-hand, and we hope she inspires all the mothers-to-be to continue exercising and cutting their ties with taboos. What do you think about this? Share it with us in the comments below!
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