When you think about yoga, you may immediately think about young people, clad head to toe in Lycra, bending their bodies into near impossible poses. This may put you off practising yoga as you might think that yoga is not something you could get involved in.
But what if you have a disability? Or an ongoing injury? What about if you are recovering from illness or injury?
Yoga is an ancient practice that has been shown to have numerous health benefits for people of all ages and abilities. However, for individuals with disabilities or injuries, practicing yoga may seem daunting or even impossible. But, with a little bit of guidance and modification, yoga can be accessible and beneficial for everyone.
Firstly, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a yoga practice, especially if you have an injury or disability. They can provide guidance on what types of yoga poses and movements are safe and suitable for your specific condition.
Once you have clearance from your healthcare provider, consider seeking out a yoga instructor who has experience working with individuals with disabilities or injuries. They can provide modifications and adjustments to poses, and also suggest alternative poses that may be more suitable for your needs. When I teach on a one to one basis, I specifically tailor sessions to the individual needs and in a general class, I will ensure that I include adaptions or alternatives to ensure that any student with illness or injury can practise safely.
It’s important to remember that yoga is not a one-size-fits-all practice. Poses and movements can be modified to suit the needs of each individual. Props such as blocks, straps, chairs and blankets can be used to support and modify poses to make them more accessible.
Additionally, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your practice accordingly. Pain is a signal from the body that something isn’t right, so if a pose or movement causes pain, it’s important to back off or modify the pose to make it more comfortable and I will offer guidance and suggestions. There is no shame in taking breaks or modifying poses to suit your body’s needs.
In conclusion, practicing yoga with a disability or injury is possible with the right guidance and modifications. Consult with a healthcare professional, seek out an experienced yoga instructor, modify poses as needed, and listen to your body. With patience and practice, yoga can be a valuable tool for improving overall health and well-being.
If you have an injury or a disability but you are interested in enjoying the many benefits that yoga offers, Please get in touch with me at Charlotte Huggins Yoga for information about yoga classes in Surrey. A warm, friendly welcome awaits you!