Yoga Therapy: How it Can Benefit You
By Katherine Florentine
The International Association of Yoga Therapists states: "Yoga therapy is the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the philosophy and practice of Yoga." IAYT acknowledges that this definition does very little to differentiate Yoga therapy from Yoga. First and foremost, it is the teacher's compassionate presence that makes a Yoga session therapeutic. Then the differences between Yoga & Yoga therapy lie within what a Yoga therapist provides, and how they maintain safety and quality.
Yoga therapy is beneficial for biomechanical or structural imbalances, whether they are congenital (scoliosis), a result of trauma or injury, or from repetitive stress injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome). Yoga therapy also empowers individuals to heal emotional wounds (anxiety, depression) as evidenced by Amy Weintraub's LifeForce Yoga. Yoga therapy can provide insight and direction into aligning energetic imbalances (stress, burnout, adrenal fatigue).
Yoga therapy requires self-awareness and participation of the student. A Yoga therapist will guide the individual to recognize and understand the imbalances that set them up for the injury. This understanding is necessary to heal effectively and also prevent re-injury. Patanjali states in the Yoga Sutras that Yoga is quieting the fluctuations of the mind. It is in this stillness that we are able to access insight into our habits of living that cause suffering.
The Yoga therapist develops a treatment plan with input from the individual that includes any or all of the following:
* Specific Asanas to direct healing to injured parts.
* Pranayama or breathing practices to develop awareness and balance energy levels.
* Ayurvedic practices that take into account the person's lifestyle and nutrition.
* Restorative practices
* Meditation
Contact one of Expressions of Grace Yoga teachers to discuss how Yoga Therapy could address your health and wellness concerns.
Resources: www.IAYT.org, www.lifeforceyoga.com, www.banyanbotanicals.com, www.yogatapestry.com, www.doyoga.com