Therapeutic Yoga vs Yoga: What is Therapeutic Yoga?

A photo of Dr. Nekita Sullivan, owner of Yoga Therapy Bar
Dr. Nekita Sullivan
January 31, 2024
Therapeutic Yoga vs Yoga: What is Therapeutic Yoga?

Therapeutic Yoga vs Yoga: What is Therapeutic Yoga?

Can therapeutic yoga relieve pain and stress? Therapeutic yoga is an approach to yoga that focuses on using the principles and practices of yoga to promote healing and well-being, both physically and mentally. It integrates traditional yoga techniques with elements of physical therapy, mindfulness, and other therapeutic modalities. The primary goal of therapeutic yoga is to address specific health concerns or conditions and to support individuals in their overall wellness journey. Key features of therapeutic yoga include:

Individualized Approach: Therapeutic yoga often involves personalized practices tailored to the individual's specific needs, health conditions, or limitations. This can be particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries, managing chronic conditions, or dealing with stress-related issues.

Mind-Body Connection: Like traditional yoga, therapeutic yoga emphasizes the connection between the mind and body. Breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness practices are often incorporated to enhance self-awareness, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

Adaptation of Asanas (Yoga Poses): Therapeutic yoga modifies traditional yoga poses to accommodate the unique needs and abilities of the practitioner. This may involve the use of props, variations, or adjustments to ensure a safe and effective practice.

Integration of Medical and Yogic Knowledge: Therapeutic yoga instructors often have a background in both yoga and a relevant field of medicine or therapy. This dual expertise allows them to understand the physiological and psychological aspects of various health conditions and design practices accordingly.

Emphasis on Breathwork: Breath awareness and controlled breathing techniques (pranayama) play a crucial role in therapeutic yoga. Breathwork is used to enhance relaxation, manage pain, and improve overall well-being.

Holistic Approach: Therapeutic yoga takes a holistic approach to health, considering the interconnectedness of the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of an individual. The practices aim to promote balance and harmony in all these dimensions.

Conditions Addressed: Therapeutic yoga can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal issues, chronic pain, stress-related disorders, anxiety, depression, and various other health challenges.

It's important to note that therapeutic yoga should be practiced under the guidance of a qualified instructor, especially if you have specific health concerns or medical conditions. A healthcare professional or a certified therapeutic yoga instructor can assess individual needs and create a safe and effective practice plan.  Dr. Nekita Sullivan is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Yoga and Pilates Teacher, and Certified Health Education Specialist.  She has 20 plus years of experience. Yoga Therapy Bar is proud to offer physical therapy, therapeutic yoga, Pilates, and wellness services in downtown Clemson, virtually, and off-site to Upstate residents of Clemson, Central, Liberty, Easley, Pendleton, Anderson, Seneca, Walhalla, Westminster, Salem, and other surrounding towns. Therapeutic yoga services are available in 30 minutes to 1 hour sessions one-on-one and in groups. Pricing options include a flat fee for one treatment or a package fee for multiple treatments.  No referral is needed.  There are no insurance limitations.  Handicapped parking is just outside of the front door. Email Dr. Nekita Sullivan atinfo@yogatherapybar.com for details. You can also check us out on the webatwww.yogatherapybar.com and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Linked In. #physicaltherapyClemson #clemsonphysicaltherapy #clemsonyoga#yogaclemsonsc #Pilatesclemson #yogaphysicaltherapy #physicaltherapyyoga#physicaltherapyclemsonsc #bodyandmind #holistic #therapeuticyogaclemsonsc

PHYSICAL THERAPY, Therapeutic Yoga, Pilates & Wellness,

Dr. Nekita