Why Yoga?
Utilizing yogic principles and asana into western health care & Occupational Therapy
By the time many clients see me they’ve been to anywhere between 2-3 other medical professionals. Often it begins with their primary care physician and a few specialists depending on their issues, such as then a gynecologist, orthopedist, or a physiatrist. Frequently they’ve also seen a physical therapist for a period of time. They’ve done their due diligence, researching the internet with Google and WebMD. They may have tried kegels, muscle building exercises, or medications. They may have even considered surgical options. All of these approaches have their merits, but I have found that using yoga is a last resort. They come to me frustrated with themselves and depleted by the entire process.
Here is why I incorporate yoga into my therapeutic approach and why it should be used more:
Practicing yoga cultivates self awareness and greater sensitivity to the inner workings of your body.
It isn’t just a set of exercises, it’s an internal-external exploration that fosters subtle observation of your body’s mechanics. It allows you to understand what is happening as it’s happening, and gives you tools to adapt to constantly fluctuating conditions. Rather than mindlessly following someone else’s prescription, you’re learning to read your own cues.
Proprioception (Body Awareness) is crucial to properly making accurate diagnoses and then deciphering how to make changes in the body.
How each person senses tension, pain, or relief is different. This is information that only each individual can access for themselves. What I perceive as pain someone else may not. My perception of tension and stretch may be someone’s sensation of relief. Gaining an understanding of your body, how its structures are positioned, and how it moves in space provides critical insight.
Yoga can provide tools for many different conditions.
Whether your issues are due to tightness, weakness, a lack of coordination, or some combination, yoga allows for the creation of complex finely nuanced practice that can be customized to address specific needs and circumstances.
Yoga is empowering.
It empowers you to take an active role in your health, rather than giving someone else the responsibility and hoping they have a magic wand. It’s easy to become a passive participant herded through the funnels of the US’s current health care system. Yoga encourages and supports you to learn for yourself. It’s your body after all.
Is it a cure for everything? No.
Is it the only tool I use for my clients? Nope.
Are there contraindications and restrictions. Yes, just like everything else.
Is it a non-invasive holistic tool with mental and physical benefits? It sure is!
Is it worth a try? Possibly, if you’re asking yourself that :)