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Yoga and Occupational Therapy

Yoga:

Yoga has become increasingly popular in Western culture. And for good reason! More and more research is emerging to support the health benefits that yoga can provide for individuals of all bodies and abilities. 

Yoga provides a framework to connect the body, mind, and spirit through practices including physical postures, breath work, and meditation. In this way, a daily yoga practice inherently promotes positive health and wellbeing and has the potential for therapeutic benefits. 

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Therapeutic Use of Yoga:

A therapeutic approach to yoga involves personalizing the practice to address each individual's goals, abilities, and schedule. Specific yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditations are prescribed to address physical and mental health and wellness. These tools can (1) complement other medical-based interventions, (2) work independently to help manage an underlying health condition, or (3) be used as a self-care tool for prevention and health maintenance.

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Yoga, as a healing tool, meets you where you are. Individual sessions are client-centered and designed uniquely for you. The goal is to teach tools and skills that can be used in daily life. Individual mentorship also allows you to delve deeper into the traditions and history - something that's often missed in group yoga classes. 

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Yoga and Occupational Therapy:

Why practice yoga with an occupational therapist? Occupational therapists have an in-depth knowledge of: 

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  • anatomical alignment of the muscles, bones and joints

  • respiration and breath work modifications

  • the nervous system and sensory regulation

  • visual-motor integration and hand-eye coordination

  • mental health and emotional wellness

  • cognitive approaches and motor learning theory 

  • activity analysis and grading movement for accessibility and safety

  • energy conservation techniques

  • environmental modifications

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And most importantly:

  • a holistic and client-centered approach to health and wellness

  • importance of participation and engagement in roles, routines, and occupation

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