Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that brings movement and breath together to promote physical and mental well-being. The benefits are varied and include increased flexibility, improved strength and reduced stress levels. For dedicated yogis, it is more than just an exercise – it is a way of life. The philosophical side of the practice dates back thousands of years, with roots in ancient India.
Yoga therapy is an adaptation of the practice, catering specifically for those with health problems and/or physical injury. The aim of yoga therapy is to support natural healing while offering other benefits. On this page we’ll look at yoga therapy, the different types available (including pregnancy yoga) and answer some frequently asked questions.
What is yoga?
Yoga is believed to have originated in India around 5,000 years ago. Since then it has evolved and adapted, but the premise remains the same; the word yoga itself means ‘to join’ or ‘unity’. The two components which the discipline joins together are postures (asanas) and breathing (pranayama). This means, when doing the poses you should breathe and move in unity.
It’s this focus on your breathing and the way you move that increases awareness. Being more aware of your body and the present moment is thought to have a calming effect and is why many experts recommend this practice for stress relief.
Due to its holistic, natural and gentle nature, many homeopaths say the therapy is ideal for those seeking a holistic approach to well-being. If you are looking for homeopathy to support you with a medical condition, it is important to note that this therapy should not be used as a substitute for conventional medicine. If you are suffering from a medical condition, it is important to visit your GP for advice. Homeopathy is a complementary therapy that can be used alongside conventional treatment.
Yoga therapy
Using this discipline in a therapeutic setting is different than most of the classes you see advertised. Yoga therapy is a more tailored practice that looks to help those with health/mobility problems or those recovering from injury.
While general yoga is preventative in nature (and may help resolve mild ailments) it may not be suitable for those with specific mobility/health concerns. In contrast, yoga therapy looks to encourage healing of such ailments with a personalised treatment plan.
Some concerns that can be addressed include:
- arthritis
- back pain
- depression
- painful joints
- certain musculoskeleal issues
- stress
- headaches.