Kelly Candelot, 34, of Honolulu has been stretching to fitness during her eighth month of pregnancy.

Candelot, a marketing director for a hospitality company, said she was drawn to yoga because of its health benefits.

"(I heard) so many good things about the benefits of yoga, so I decided to try it," she said. "I have had a really good pregnancy so far ... (and) after a yoga sessions, I feel it's so much easier to breathe, almost like (I) have created a little more space within (my) stomach."

Guiding Candelot in her regular yoga routines is Mary Bastien, 29, owner of Open Space Yoga in downtown Honolulu.

Bastien has more than nine years of yoga practice, coupled with six years of training (more than 200 hours) under various yoga experts. She began teaching three years ago.

"I teach (what is referred to as) Vinyasa Flow yoga, which links breath with movement, with an emphasis on different breathing practices and meditation," Bastien said.

Bastien, a New York native and Honolulu resident, keeps her practice current through continued training.

"What I enjoy most about yoga is the ability to help people feel better in their lives," she said.

Bastien, although not a medical professional, has received training in working with women in pregnancy, and screens potential students as to their state of health, and if a student's physician has endorsed yoga practice.

"I have worked with about a dozen pregnant women ... I work with them before class to let them know what to stay away from ... (as) there are a few asanas (poses) and breathing practices that should be avoided," she said.

Candelot's physician approved of her yoga participation, and she is grateful for Bastien's guidance.

"Mary is an excellent teacher. She communicates her instructions very well," Candelot said. "I trust her 100 percent with the exercise regiment ... if a position is more challenging for someone, she gives a suitable alternative."

Candelot complements her yoga with swimming three times per week and walking when possible.

Bastien recommends that anyone taking on a new activity, such as yoga, should always mention to an instructor any health or physical issues that may be complicated by exercise and should always consult a medical professional to receive the appropriate clearance to participate.