What happens in a session? What kind of conditions does it help? Isn’t it just yoga? Can I do it if I’ve never done yoga before? These are just some of the questions I receive.
Read more about Gillian’s Yoga Therapy sessions…
So, let’s address the first question – what exactly is Yoga Therapy?
Yoga Therapy is a tailored application of yoga practices that specifically address your needs and goals. It is an empowering and collaborative process where you are given the tools to improve your own wellbeing.
To give you an idea, the session follows these stages:
- Prior to meeting, you will be asked to complete a comprehensive and confidential health information form.
- In the initial 90 minute session we will review and discuss the information you have provided. The we look at your posture, movement and breath. All of these elements help in deciding the most helpful personal practice just for you.
- We will go through the practice together, ensuring you understand the how and why of each segment. This could be for example a sequence of yoga poses (asanas), breathwork (pranayama) or meditation and mindfulness techniques.
- You will then be guided into a deep relaxation. Following this a brief review of the practice you have been given and there is time to ask questions.
- After the session you will receive your personal practice plan. This will empower and help you practice on your own between sessions.
- The following session is 60 minutes. We will review the practice and modified as needed to best bring you comfort, balance and wellbeing to your life.
What kind of conditions does it help?
Yoga Therapy can be really helpful in many different scenarios. Yoga Therapy is used for a variety of different conditions. In addition it can be a stand alone therapy or an adjunct to existing medical or alternative treatments. For example, it can offer practices to support treatment of:
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Digestive conditions (ICE)
- Fertility
- Prenatal
- Postnatal
- Blood pressure
- Respiratory
- Long covid
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Menopause
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
If you are receiving medical care yoga therapy can be wonderful at supporting you through the process.
Isn’t it just yoga?
Well yes, it is yoga – but it is yoga that best fits with your personal priorities and needs. Not all yoga practices are appropriate for everyone. For instance, you may have a back issue, or shoulder injury that would contraindicate certain poses or movements. You may be experiencing anxiety that certain yoga practices could exacerbate and others sooth. The role of a yoga therapist is to take a holistic view of you. We take into consideration everything from your physical concerns to your mental considerations.
Can I do it if I’ve never done yoga before?
Absolutely yes! This is the beauty of yoga therapy.
It is on a one to one basis where your yoga therapist can gently guide you through your practice. Your therapist will take time to ensure you understand why you are being given a particular practice and how to do it on your own. Sometimes people worry that they are not flexible or strong enough, but this really doesn’t matter. It’s about finding a practice that brings you comfort and balance. For instance, relief from a physical discomfort or mental illness or simply taking time to nourish and nurture yourself. There truly is a yoga practice for everyone from yoga novices to experienced practitioners.
Above all, Yoga therapy can help you find relief from physical or mental discomfort. It can empower you to take charge of your own healing journey.