Yoga is a practice that specifically addresses the embodied relationship between the mind and body. Last year alone, over 80 million Americans unrolled their mats in order to reap the myriad benefits this breath and body practice has to offer.
The benefits of yoga are vast and range from greater strength and balance to an improved heart rate variability (HRV) and increased mental clarity. Growing research supports the efficacy of the yoga in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and more.
Individuals with specific goals can benefit greatly through targeted yoga practice above and beyond what is currently available in classrooms. Yoga therapy systematically addresses a client's physical, mental and emotional states and needs.
According to the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), "The goals of yoga therapy include eliminating, reducing, and/or managing symptoms that cause suffering; improving function; helping to prevent the occurrence or re-occurrence of underlying causes of illness; and moving toward improved health and well-being.”
Yoga therapy can be used to ameliorate symptoms of physical injury, illness, mental and emotional conditions, and can be a welcome compliment to any other therapy or services.
In a yoga class, the teacher designs a session based upon the needs of the group; in a therapy session, the session is solely based upon the needs of the individual. During the first appointment, the therapist does an intake, asking questions, and observing the breath and physical body of the client.
Typically, the client is then introduced to a selection of tailored movements, breathing practices, relaxation techniques, and visualizations. The client leaves with a short practice that is workable in his or her daily life and a few yogic lifestyle suggestions. Follow up is key during the weeks after beginning the practices as they often need to be further modified.
Links that you may find helpful:
NeuroMend offers Yoga Therapy with our on-site Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT). Contact us to schedule your yoga therapy consultation!
