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
Poses
Physical movements to relieve stress
Breathing
Techniques that promote proper breathing and decrease likelihood of anxiety
Meditations
Focuses the mind on being in the now
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.