How Yoga Therapy Can Transform Your Body, Mind, and Spirituality

The COVID-19 crisis has brought with it great hardships, many of which have manifested as mental and physical health disorders, and common lifestyle conditions. 

But there’s also a growing tribe of people seeking natural, non-invasive ways to better health, and restoring balance in the mind and body. Yoga therapy is emerging as one of the most sought after therapy due to its holistic approach to treating and healing Body, Mind and Soul. 

Yoga Versus Yoga Therapy

While most people are aware of the transformative power of yoga on health and daily life, fewer people understand the importance of yoga therapy in improving mental and physical well-being. Yoga comprises a general mix of postures (asanas), breathing (pranayama), meditation, nutrition and sleep. In contrast, yoga therapy is a focused approach towards specific mental and physical health issues, using a combination of these elements. 

Role of a Yoga Therapist

Certified yoga therapists undergo years of study and rigorous training. They are trained to identify your needs and goals, design programs that can work for your condition, and instruct and support you in a safe, non-judgmental way. They come with knowledge and a certain inner intuition, which contribute towards the journey to good health.  

Common Conditions Addressed by Yoga Therapy

There is growing evidence indicating the therapeutic role of yoga therapy across a range of conditions, diseases and stages. Some major areas where yoga therapy can make significant shifts include:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis and chronic pain
• Cardiovascular and respiratory health
• Urinary issues
• Cancer healing and palliative care
• Reproductive health
• Paediatrics
• Overall mental health, including insomnia and stress management

Core Knowledge and Skills

Certified Sri Vidya yoga therapists come with a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and everyday health and medical conditions. They also understand with depth, the core values and philosophy behind yoga, its techniques and how to apply them in the context of specific diseases. 

Your therapist must have the ability and confidence to design the right combination of postures, breathing and meditation techniques for the desired outcome. Additional skills include knowledge of first aid and being able to respond swiftly in case of medical emergencies. 

Commit to Self

Just like other forms of therapy, it’s important to make a commitment towards your health and work closely with your yoga therapist for best results. Showing up for yourself, following the instructions of your therapist and doing your “homework” is non-negotiable for success. 

It might prove tough initially to be disciplined, especially if you are working on your mental health. You might feel like giving up at times. This is where your yoga therapist can play a role in motivating you with empathy, gently nudging you towards discipline and the will to invest in yourself. 

Going Solo or in Small Groups

Yoga therapy can be conducted via one-on-one sessions as well as in small groups. It depends on what works for you as well as the condition you are looking to heal from. Discuss the best approach for you thoroughly with your yoga therapist and make an informed decision.

A Holistic Approach

The success of yoga therapy lies in its holistic approach to repairing not only the body, but also the mind and the spirit, and not one without the other. The overall impact of yoga therapy leads many people to continue practising it even after the specific condition has been successfully addressed. Practising Sri Vidya yoga becomes a way of life, and this outlasts the tenure of the therapy itself for continued good health. 

Book a conversation to know more about our Sri Vidya Medical Yoga Therapy program, and how it can support you in your quest for health and happiness.