SOMERVILLE, Mass. -- Yoga can be soothing and relaxing, but certain types can be quite a workout. And that workout can continue safely during pregnancy for many women, with a few maternal modifications.

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Yoga is a labor of love for many in a Somerville class, including instructor Mimi Lourerio, who is 8 months pregnant.

"Pregnancy and birth is the most difficult and exciting experience any woman can go through. And so I think women should be at their best, mentally and physically. So if you've already been athletic, if they've been doing a power yoga practice for six months to a year, they should be able to continue it," said Loureiro.

Loureiro has produced a video on safe yoga during pregnancy. Her O2 Yoga classes welcome those who are expecting and those who are not. The classes all focus on areas like balance and strength.

"It's a really nice way of keeping your body conditioned somewhat and feeling like your body's familiar again with all the changes going on," said mom-to-be Jane Staunton.

Pregnant women should check with their doctor or midwife before starting yoga or any exercise program. They should make sure to explain the type of yoga they are interested in since some forms are very physical while others are more spiritual. After that, Loureiro said, it is a matter of finding out what you're comfortable with and making a few adjustments.

"I give them very specific modifications to be able to put themselves in a position similar to what we are doing in the class, but without it being uncomfortable," said Loureiro.

That means twisting a little differently and putting less pressure on the belly. Dr. Jessica Small said the class delivers helpful tips and more.

"It gives me kinds of, like, clarity of thought, a way to focus on work and everything a little better. Kind of teaches you how to be calm and take things as they come," said Small, also a mom-to-be.

That's because the pace of the 90-minute session is intense, as is the admiration for those pregnant participants.

"It's great. I'm amazed what they can do, right in the thick of everybody else," said yoga participant Charlie Walsh.