Yoga Therapy

Yoga encompasses behavioral, physical and meditative practices, known as the ‘limbs’ of yoga. The benefits of practicing yoga are well-known: increased strength and flexibility, improved posture, relief from stress and a greater sense of calm and relaxation. Yoga postures access not only the energy centers of the body but also access the organs in the abdomen (hara) and the meridian lines and points which we treat in Zen Shiatsu. In this way, yoga postures are effective in balancing the energy flow  in the entire body, creating a sense of ‘oneness’ and connection between different parts of the body as well as the connection between the body, the mind and the emotions.

Yoga therapy combines the practice of yoga with a diagnosis of the whole person based on Zen Shiatsu techniques to develop an individualized yoga program based on the client’s needs. An individual program may be necessary to assist in correcting health problems and recovery from surgery or injury. Yoga therapy is effective in postural and musculoskeletal problems, including combating the effects of spinal curvatures, as well as the problems associated with osteoporosis. Yoga therapy is also effective in cases in assisting with a wide range of ailments such as menstrual difficulties, headaches and migraines, shoulder, back and hip pain, chronic stress, digestive problems as well as asthma and respiratory problems.

A yoga therapy session begins with a diagnosis and a discussion of the health status, diet and activity levels and abilities. A yoga program is then created and adapted over time as the client’s needs and abilities change. Yoga therapy can be sought for short periods of time to deal with a particular issue or can continue continuously or sporadically over a long period of time to maintain health and well-being.