What is yoga therapy

Frequently asked questions:

Is yoga therapy always run on a private one to one basis?

Yoga therapy can be conducted on a one to one basis or in a small therapy group setting

Is it just for people with specific problems?

No – yoga therapy can of course assist in alleviating pain and discomfort but can also be an ideal introduction to yoga for a beginner or assist a more advanced student to deepen their knowledge of the yoga in all its aspects

What is a yoga therapist?

A yoga therapist is a highly qualified professional who as a fully trained yoga teacher has then undergone additional in-depth training to be a yoga therapist. It is always worth checking that your yoga therapist has had the necessary training and qualifications

Yoga therapy is an integrated mind-body approach for restoring balance and adaptive functioning to the physical (musculoskeletal), physiological (digestion, respiration, cardiovascular, endocrine and immune), and mental / emotional systems.

Yoga therapy may be used to:

• reduce symptoms of illness or injury

• establish more functional breath and movement patterns

• reduce physical and mental suffering

• improve quality of life

What can I expect from a Yoga Therapy session?

Different yoga therapists will have different ways of working but your session will most likely include an in-depth interview about you and any issues and concerns you have together with an assessment on how you move and breathe. Your yoga therapist will wish to find out as much information as they can so they can then tailor a personal yoga practice for you. All information is highly confidential and your therapist will aim to make sure you feel safe and comfortable

Your personalised yoga practice may include some asana (movement), pranayama (breathing techniques), meditation or sound techniques such as chanting as well as restorative practices. Your therapist will ensure that you understand and are comfortable with the practices before you leave the session

How many yoga therapy sessions will I need?

This will be discussed with your therapist depending on how you feel after practising the tailored yoga programme at home. Any follow up sessions will add or change practices so they meet your needs and address the concerns raised. It is generally accepted that several sessions will be most beneficial

Do I need a medical referral?

No, you do not. However, please do check with your doctor if you are unsure if you should attend a yoga therapy session. Your yoga therapist should also ensure that you seek medical advice if deemed necessary for your well being