What is Yoga Therapy?
I am often asked what is Yoga Therapy?
The International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) defines Yoga Therapy as “the professional application of the principles and practices of yoga to promote health and well-being within a therapeutic relationship that includes personalized assessment, goal setting, lifestyle management, and yoga practices for individuals or small groups.”
“the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teachings and practices of Yoga.”
I like how Gary Kraftsow of the American Viniyoga Institute describes Yoga Therapy “Yoga therapy, derived from the Yoga tradition of Patanjali and the Ayurvedic system of health care refers to the adaptation and application of Yoga techniques and practices to help individuals facing health challenges at any level manage their condition, reduce symptoms, restore balance, increase vitality, and improve attitude.”
I describe Yoga Therapy as a holistic journey of self discovery and a path to overall wellbeing. Using the teachings of Yoga to reconnect our body and mind, rediscovering the spirit within us to bring us back to wholeness and contentment with our true self and current state. A Yoga Therapists empowers and supports individuals through their unique journey focusing on the specific goals of the individual and looking at the body, mind, and spirit as one whole entity.
Here is a comparison of what you might see in a Therapeutic Yoga Class and Regular Yoga Class. This is a generalization and a regular yoga class can vary depending on the teacher and how much of the entirety they teach of the yoga tradition.
Therapeutic Yoga Class
- Instructors have minimum RYT-500 hours training in therapeutic yoga
- Clients have a specific health issue in common and other yogic practices are explored
- Smaller classes, less participants
- Pace of class is slower and focus is to regulate the nervous system
- Sequences and practice only include 10 -13 movements, interoception during movement is always an emphasis
- Sequences include gentle, restorative movements (asana)
- No obvious peak to the class and activating the relaxation response is the focus
- Specific education related to the therapeutic focus are included in each class
Regular Yoga Class
- Instructors have minimum RYT-200 hour training in a specific yoga style
- Clients are mobile and classes are mostly asana and fitness based, and may not be accessible to all
- Larger classes, more participants
- Pace of class can vary and be much faster and focus often fitness based
- Sequences/practices can include upwards of 20-60 movements (asana), interoception may not be cued
- Sequences may include high risk movements (asana)
- The peak of the class is a physically challenging pose
- Education of some yoga techniques or benefits may not be offered
Yoga Therapists also work alongside a multidisciplinary team, such as your doctor, chiropractor, physiotherapist, psychologist, and more to ensure you are receiving complete support and care along your journey.
More questions, visit the International Association of Yoga Therapists at https://www.iayt.org/ or let’s connect to discuss more.
Who’s behind the scenes?
Hi, I am Christina, and my goal is to create inclusive, accessible, equitable, and empowering spaces where individuals can experience the therapeutic benefits of yoga within a community. I share these teachings to the best of my ability and with respect for the history and traditions where these practices originated.
Through my chronic pain journey, the therapeutic benefits of yoga have been life changing, guiding me toward whole-body wellness and much needed restoration. Searching long and hard, I eventually found the relief I needed.
In my quest to find freedom, yoga therapy became an integral part of my healing journey, offering targeted practices to address specific areas of discomfort and imbalance. I learned to cultivate awareness of my body, breath, and mind, releasing years of tension and chronic pain patterns. Through gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness practices, I found the support I needed, alleviating my physical pain, and nurturing my mental and emotional well-being.
Determined not to give up, I embarked on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment, reclaiming agency over my health and well-being. Today, I stand as a testament to the potential of these practices and a passionate advocate, sharing my experiences and knowledge to support others on their own paths toward healing and wholeness.
Pricing and Donations
All classes are offered on a sliding scale pricing system to enhance accessibility for those seeking their advantages, aiming to foster equity. The belief that financial constraints should not impede anyone’s pursuit of better health and wellness drives my commitment to making yoga practices more affordable. Our sliding scale pricing is designed to accommodate diverse economic situations.
Additionally, we provide options for donation-based pricing or sponsorship for individuals who cannot afford to contribute financially. For further information on sponsorship and donation-based services, please contact us at yourdiscoveryandjourney@gmail.com.
The availability of donation and sponsored services depends on the funds raised through generous contributions from those who can afford to give more, thereby supporting the well-being of others and ensuring service accessibility. The intake of clients for donation-based services hinges on community contributions. Your donations are pivotal in sustaining this community-focused initiative, and we ensure transparency by sharing success stories of those you aid, allowing you to see the impact of your generosity.
The support and contributions from all are deeply valued and make a significant difference in many lives.
Choose Your Path
Do you have a suggested class theme? Please share your requests. Some offerings include therapeutic yoga to support the whole being (body, mind, and spirit), balance and fall prevention, chair and healthy aging, pain care, functional movement, joint support, injury recovery, meditation, self-care, pelvic health, and mental health.
If you are moving through an injury, rehabilitation, or a condition ask your doctor or treating therapist how therapeutic yoga may support you on your journey. Reach out or book a free meet and greet to discuss more.
Virtual classes are available to everyone, and in-person sessions are offered in Edmonton, AB, and the surrounding areas. There are no hybrid classes; I prefer to give my full attention to all participants. The practices are designed to be accessible and suitable for all. We may engage in poses while sitting, standing, or lying down. The option to use a chair or practice from a bed (for those at home) is always available—choose whatever best supports your movement throughout the practice.
Upon registration, a payment link and a Zoom invitation will be sent to you. To register, please email yourdiscoveryandjourney@gmail.com with your preferred date and time.
Pricing is based on a sliding scale to foster accessibility, equity, and inclusivity. Please select the price that fits your budget.
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