When searching for physical therapy yoga, you may find the term “yoga therapy.” Yoga and yoga therapy have some similarities but differ in their applications. Here is everything you need to know about yoga therapy, including how it compares with yoga:
Similarities Between Yoga and Yoga Therapy
Yoga asana helps to form the basis of a yoga class and a yoga therapy session. Both a yoga therapist and a yoga instructor employ a series of yoga poses to address a client’s health concerns. Props like bolsters, blocks, and straps are used in both practices.
Yoga classes and therapy sessions include pressure points, hand gestures, and breath control. The steps in both types of practice are also similar and can start with warming up the body, moving through a series of positions, cooling down the body, and then letting the body relax.
Differences Between Yoga and Yoga Therapy
Some yoga therapy practices combine breathing techniques and physical movements to focus more on bodily harmonization. It frequently has a therapeutic effect and promotes self-realization. This type of therapy aims to enhance physical health and overall well-being by applying yoga practices.
When searching for physical therapy yoga, there are several options to find that yoga therapy is a distinct branch of yoga practice. Some programs offer a more intense training program for certification as a yoga therapist than a yoga instructor.
In a yoga class, all students follow the same positions under the teacher’s guidance while listening to quiet music, providing a calm atmosphere. Yoga therapy sessions focus more on individuals. The yoga therapist guides patients through customized practices, considering their unique needs and health challenges. Yoga offers other benefits beyond the physical well-being and harmonization:
- Increasing flexibility, strength, balance, and posture
- Easing pain, including back pain
- Improving heart health
- Encouraging better sleep and relaxation
- Easing depression and anxiety
- Encouraging self-care
The advantages of yoga therapy are similar to traditional yoga practices, and the benefits are unique to each patient. Yoga therapists conduct an initial assessment before designing a customized plan to meet each client’s needs. When deciding between a yoga class and a yoga therapy session, consider which practice or session will suit your needs the best.
In a yoga class, you will practice alongside other people in a community and challenge your body physically with traditional poses and postures. A yoga therapy session might be a better choice if you’re trying to recover from an accident or treat a particular health issue with a customized plan.
Significance of Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy is one of many practices that help with preventative and restorative measures. There are cases in which this therapy can treat certain illnesses without modern medicine. Researchers recommend yoga therapy as a supplementary alternative due to its many advantages.
Yoga practices, depending on the individual, can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and may complement psychiatric disorders. This type of therapy is effective against anxiety and PTSD. It is a non-invasive, cost-effective treatment that is provided at many clinics.
If you are already seeing a therapist, ask them if yoga therapy can benefit you and how it could complement your present therapy regimen. There are many opportunities to engage in yoga treatment regardless of age, strength, or flexibility. Depending on your requirements and abilities, the sessions might be basic or complex.
Objectives of Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy aims to help clients achieve their definitions of health and well-being. Yoga therapists use conventional yoga practices to prescribe specific poses, techniques, and movements to address the individual needs of their clients. Particular objectives of yoga therapy may include:
- Inspire relaxation and awareness
- Enhanced coordination
- Aid with various ailments or disorders
- Overall health and well-being advancement
- Promote body-mindfulness
This practice aids any client with their specific needs, whether to address mental or physical challenges. Yoga therapy sessions can also be tailored to focus on compassion, client-focused, and client-led practices. The client controls their healing process, with their yoga therapist as an informed guide.
The Best Facilities for Physical Therapy Yoga
Find a facility that combines physical therapy practices with yoga techniques to achieve your goals. Sign up for advanced yoga therapy training sessions as an alternative to healing. You can register for group classes with a more general goal and private sessions for specified objectives.
