The Benefits Of Yoga Therapy

What is Yoga Therapy? 

            Yoga is widely known as a great tool for relaxation and decompression. General yoga classes can help to ease daily aches, alleviate pains or life your mood. Yoga therapy takes the physical benefits of yoga and works from a psychological lens to progress toward improved overall wellbeing.

            The International Association of Yoga Therapists defines Yoga Therapy as “the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teaching and practices of yoga.” Essentially, yoga therapy is used to relieve and improve mental and physical conditions by integrating the mind and body. Rather than using yoga as a cure for physical and mental health issues, it effectively treats symptoms of these ailments.

What to Expect During Yoga Therapy

Individual sessions

Unlike the yoga classes at your local gym, yoga therapy typically occurs in a one-on-one setting with a licensed yoga therapist.

Discussion of your concerns & needs

The yoga therapist will conduct an assessment to identify health issues, current limitations and presenting problems to create a treatment plan.

Techniques

1. Poses

   Physical movements to relieve stress

2. Breathing

   Techniques that promote proper breathing and decrease likelihood of anxiety

3. Meditations   

   Focuses the mind on being in the now

4. Guided Imagery

   Reduces tension by envisioning a relaxing scene related to each of the senses

   Relaxation

   Manages the fight or flight response

Yoga skills to take home

Learning to incorporate yoga therapy practices into your daily life will bring sense of empowerment.

Benefits of Yoga therapy:

Mind-body focus

·       Yoga therapy incorporates a whole-person perspective, which works towards identifying and treating the root of your issues

Physical health

·       Yoga therapy meets you at your current physical ability with appropriate exercises and regular movement, which promotes better physical health

Less side effects

·       Yoga therapy has less physical side effects as a complementary treatment option

·       Alternative treatment, when compared to medication

Yoga therapy can be a substitute therapeutic route for those not interested in traditional talk therapy

Is yoga therapy right for me?

Yoga therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions including, but not limited to:

1.     Stress

2.     Depression

3.     Anxiety

4.     ADHD

5.     PTSD

6.     Eating Disorders

7.     Insomnia

8.     Addiction and Substance Abuse

9.     Post-Partum Depression

How to Get Started with Yoga Therapy

            If you are interested in exploring yoga therapy, look for a yoga therapist with the experience and training to provide positive therapeutic change. Learning to connect with yourself on both a physical and emotional level starts by reaching out for guidance. Embrace the first step of your journey towards healing and growth.