Yoga
Therapy

Yoga is a holistic approach to healing and well-being that utilizes the principles and practices of yoga to address various physical, mental, and emotional health issues. It combines traditional yoga techniques, such as postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, and relaxation techniques

Types of Yoga:

• Hatha Yoga:

Hatha yoga is a foundational style that focuses on physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama). It is often taught in a slower-paced manner, making it suitable for beginners.

• Vinyasa Yoga:

Vinyasa, also known as flow yoga, emphasizes the synchronization of breath with movement. It involves flowing sequences of poses that transition smoothly from one to the next, creating a dynamic and invigorating practice.

• Ashtanga Yoga:

Ashtanga yoga follows a specific sequence of poses that are practiced in a precise order. It is a vigorous and physically demanding style that builds strength, flexibility, and stamina. Ashtanga is typically taught in a structured manner with little variation from class to class.

• Iyengar Yoga:

Developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, this style of yoga focuses on alignment and precision in each pose. Props such as blocks, straps, and blankets are often used to help students achieve proper alignment and deepen their practice. Iyengar yoga is accessible to practitioners of all levels and is particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries or with specific alignment issues.

• Bikram Yoga:

Bikram yoga, also known as hot yoga, consists of a series of 26 poses practiced in a room heated to a high temperature (usually around 95-105°F or 35-40°C). The heat is believed to increase flexibility, detoxify the body, and promote relaxation. Bikram yoga follows a specific sequence and is practiced in a mirrored studio.

• Kundalini Yoga:

Kundalini yoga combines dynamic movements, breathwork, meditation, and chanting to awaken the dormant energy at the base of the spine (kundalini). It aims to balance the chakras, increase spiritual awareness, and promote self-discovery and personal transformation.

Poses of Yoga:

1. Standing Poses:

• Tadasana:

Improves posture and strengthens the legs

• Virabhadrasana:

Enhances strength, stability, and focus while stretching the legs and opening the hips.

• Vrksasana:

Builds balance and concentration while strengthening the legs and core.

• Utkatasana:

Strengthens the legs, glutes, and core muscles.

2. Seated Poses:

• Paschimottanasana:

Stretches the spine, hamstrings, and lower back while calming the mind.

• Ardha Matsyendrasana:

Improves spinal mobility and digestion while releasing tension in the back and shoulders.

• Padmasana:

Enhances hip flexibility and promotes a grounded, meditative state.

• Dandasana:

Strengthens the back and core muscles while improving posture.

3. Backbends:

• Bhujangasana:

Opens the chest, strengthens the back muscles, and improves spinal flexibility.

• Setu Bandhasana:

Stretches the chest, neck, and spine while strengthening the glutes and hamstrings.

• Urdhva Dhanurasana:

Expands the chest and shoulders, strengthens the arms and legs, and increases flexibility in the spine.

4. Twists:

• Parivrtta Utkatasana

Increases spinal mobility, massages the internal organs, and aids digestion.

• Parivrtta Trikonasana:

Stretches the hamstrings and spine while detoxifying the body.

• Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana:

Improves balance, strengthens the legs, and enhances spinal mobility.

Benifits of Yoga :

• Improved Flexibility and Strength:

Practicing yoga poses helps improve flexibility and strength in muscles and joints, leading to better mobility and reduced risk of injury.

• Stress Reduction:

Yoga therapy incorporates relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation, which help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, leading to better mental and emotional well-being.

• Enhanced Mental Health:

Regular practice of yoga therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders, while also improving mood and promoting a sense of inner peace and well-being.

• Better Sleep:

Yoga therapy can help improve sleep quality by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Certain yoga poses and breathing exercises are particularly beneficial for calming the mind and preparing the body for restful sleep.