FAQ - Yoga Therapy

WHAT IS YOGA THERAPY?

Yoga therapy is a specialized form of yoga that involves personalized practices and techniques tailored to address individual health concerns and promote overall well-being. It is a holistic approach that combines the principles and practices of yoga with modern medical knowledge and therapeutic techniques. The goal of yoga therapy is to support individuals in achieving optimal physical, mental, and emotional health.

IS YOGA A RELIGION?

Yoga itself is not a religion, but it is deeply rooted in spiritual and philosophical traditions. It is more accurately described as a spiritual practice or a system of techniques and principles aimed at achieving spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. The origins of yoga can be traced back thousands of years to ancient India, where it developed as a spiritual practice within Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Over time, yoga has evolved and been influenced by various spiritual traditions and philosophies.

DO I HAVE TO BE A VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN TO PRACTICE YOGA?

No, you do not have to be a vegetarian or vegan to practice yoga. While some individuals who practice yoga choose to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet for ethical, health, or spiritual reasons, it is not a requirement of yoga practice. Yoga is a diverse and inclusive practice that can be embraced by people with various dietary choices and lifestyles.

I AM NOT FLEXIBLE. CAN I STILL PRACTICE YOGA?

Absolutely, you can do yoga even if you are not flexible! In fact, yoga is an excellent practice for improving flexibility, among many other benefits. It's a common misconception that you need to be flexible to start practicing yoga. The truth is that yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, body type, or current level of flexibility.

I AM PAST 50 YEARS OF AGE. CAN I STILL PRACTICE YOGA?

Absolutely, age is not a barrier to practicing yoga! In fact, yoga can be especially beneficial for older adults as it offers a gentle yet effective way to improve flexibility, strength, balance, mobility, and overall well-being. Many yoga practices can be modified to suit different abilities, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

AM I SUPPOSED TO PRACTICE YOGA THERAPY ON AN EMPTY STOMACH?

The timing of your yoga therapy practice in relation to eating can have an impact on your comfort and energy levels during the session. While there's no hard and fast rule that applies to everyone, here are some general guidelines to consider regarding practicing yoga therapy on an empty stomach:

Before Yoga Therapy:

  • Light Meal: It's generally recommended to practice yoga therapy on a relatively empty stomach. This means having a light meal or snack at least 1-2 hours before your session. Steer clear of heavy or large meals that can make you feel sluggish or cause digestive discomfort.
  • Digestive Comfort: Practicing with a full stomach can lead to discomfort during twists, inversions, or other poses that compress the abdomen.
  • Energy Levels: Some people find that practicing on an empty or light stomach helps maintain their energy levels and focus during the session.

Hydration:

  • Stay Hydrated: It's important to be well-hydrated before and during your yoga therapy practice. Drink water throughout the day, especially if you have a morning session.
  • Avoid Excessive Drinking: While hydration is important, try not to drink too much water right before your practice to avoid feeling too full or needing frequent bathroom breaks.

After Yoga Therapy:

  • Replenish: After your session, especially if it was physically demanding, consider having a balanced meal or snack to replenish your energy and support muscle recovery.
  • Nutrient-Rich Foods: Opt for nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Special Considerations:

  • Medical Conditions: If you have specific medical conditions such as diabetes or hypoglycemia, you may need to adjust your pre-practice meal/snack accordingly.
  • Early Morning Practice: For early morning yoga therapy sessions, a small snack or a glass of juice may be sufficient to provide energy without feeling too full.
  • Listen to Your Body: If you feel light-headed, nauseous, or uncomfortable during your practice due to food, it might be a sign that you need to adjust your eating habits before sessions.

HOW DOES YOUR YOGA THERAPY WORK?

Our Yoga Therapy Programs follows the methodology as mentioned below. 

  1. Assessment: A yoga therapist conducts an initial assessment to understand the client's health history, current condition, goals, and any limitations.
  2. Customized Practices: Based on the assessment, the yoga therapist creates a personalized plan that may include a combination of yoga poses, breathing exercises, meditation techniques, and other practices.
  3. Practice Sessions: Clients work with the yoga therapist in one-on-one sessions or small groups to learn and practice the tailored techniques.
  4. Home Practice: Clients are often given specific practices to continue at home, creating a consistent routine to support their health goals.
  5. Progress Monitoring: The therapist regularly monitors the client's progress, adjusts practices as needed, and provides guidance and support.

WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF YOGA THERAPY?

  • Holistic Approach: Yoga therapy views the individual as a whole, considering physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health.
  • Personalized Practices: A yoga therapist designs practices that are specific to the individual's needs, health conditions, and goals.
  • Integration of Yoga Techniques: Yoga therapy may include a combination of physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle recommendations.
  • Awareness and Mindfulness: Emphasis is placed on developing awareness of one's body, breath, thoughts, and emotions.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF YOGA THERAPY?

Below is a list of some important benefits of our Yoga Therapy Programs that we deliver to our clients for your consideration.

  • Pain Management: Yoga therapy can help manage chronic pain by improving flexibility, strength, and reducing tension.
  • Stress Reduction: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and relaxation practices can lower stress hormones and promote relaxation.
  • Improved Physical Function: Yoga therapy can enhance mobility, balance, and coordination.
  • Emotional Well-being: Practices like meditation and mindfulness can improve mood and promote emotional resilience.
  • Better Sleep: Certain yoga practices are known to improve sleep quality and patterns.
  • Enhanced Self-awareness: Through yoga therapy, individuals develop a deeper connection with their bodies and emotions.

WHAT ARE SOME MEDICAL CONDITIONS ADDRESSED BY YOGA THERAPY?

Yoga therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional conditions, including:

  • Chronic pain (back pain, arthritis, etc.)
  • Stress and anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Insomnia and other sleep disorders
  • Respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD)
  • Cardiovascular health (Hypertension)
  • Digestive disorders (Constipation, IBS, etc.)
  • Women's health issues (menstrual disorders, menopause)
  • Rehabilitation after injury or surgery
  • Urinary Incontinence 
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Diabetes
  • Spinal Disorders
  • Obesity 
  • Osteoporosis
  • and more

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN YOGA THERAPY AND PHYSICAL THERAPY?

Yoga therapy and physical therapy are both forms of therapeutic treatment aimed at improving health and well-being, but they differ in their approaches, techniques, and focus. Here are the main differences between yoga therapy and physical therapy:

YOGA THERAPY:

  1. Holistic Approach:
    • Yoga therapy takes a holistic approach, considering the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
    • It emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
    • Practices include yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, and lifestyle guidance.
  2. Personalized and Preventive:
    • Yoga therapy focuses on personalized practices tailored to the individual's specific needs, health conditions, and goals.
    • It often includes practices that promote overall wellness and prevention of future health issues.
  3. Mind-Body Connection:
    • Yoga therapy places a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection.
    • Techniques aim to improve awareness, mindfulness, and emotional balance alongside physical health.
  4. Long-Term Lifestyle Changes:
    • Yoga therapy often encourages long-term lifestyle changes, such as incorporating yoga practices into daily life.
    • It aims to empower individuals to take an active role in their health and well-being.
  5. Stress Reduction and Mental Health:
    • Yoga therapy includes techniques to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
    • Practices like meditation and relaxation exercises promote mental well-being.

PHYSICAL THERAPY:

  1. Focused on Physical Rehabilitation:
    • Physical therapy primarily focuses on physical rehabilitation and recovery from injury, surgery, or illness.
    • It aims to restore and improve physical function, mobility, and strength.
  2. Evidence-Based Techniques:
    • Physical therapy uses evidence-based techniques and modalities such as exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
    • Techniques are often standardized and based on scientific research.
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment of Physical Conditions:
    • Physical therapists diagnose and treat a wide range of physical conditions, such as musculoskeletal injuries, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular issues.
    • Treatment plans are often structured around specific diagnoses and functional goals.
  4. Short-Term, Goal-Oriented:
    • Physical therapy is often more short-term and goal-oriented, focusing on achieving specific functional outcomes.
    • The primary goal is to improve physical function and reduce pain.

Integration:

  • While yoga therapy and physical therapy have distinct approaches, they can complement each other.
  • In some cases, individuals may benefit from a combination of both yoga therapy and physical therapy, especially for conditions where addressing both physical and emotional aspects of health is beneficial.

HOW SHOULD I DECIDE?

  • Yoga Therapy:
    • Consider yoga therapy for a holistic approach to overall well-being, stress reduction, preventive health measures, and long-term lifestyle changes.
    • Useful for managing chronic conditions, improving emotional health, and promoting mindfulness.
  • Physical Therapy:
    • Choose physical therapy for focused rehabilitation after injury, surgery, or to address specific physical conditions.
    • Effective for improving mobility, strength, and function, often with a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.