Our Perceptions
What comes to your mind when you think of a Yoga practice? Whether or not you have practiced Yoga, imagining a practice inevitably brings pictures of teachers in bendy poses, music from singing bowls, fragrance of scented candles, and the feeling of stillness in the air. These sensations are all but only channels and sometimes distractions; the goal of a Yoga practice is well-being. This International Yoga Day let’s spread awareness not just about Yoga for fitness but also about Yoga for therapy.

Can Yoga be considered as a Therapy?
Yoga therapy is practice with the intention of reaching a state of optimum health and well-being. Trained Yoga therapists understand anatomy, ailments, and poses a Yoga aspirant should practice with care and attention. Equipped with this deep knowledge and understanding, the therapist guides one towards carefully building composure, endurance, flexibility, mindfulness and strength. With renewed capabilities, aspirants are physically, emotionally and mentally armed to make the most of every moment. The ailments that therapists help aspirants with are anxiety, arthritis, asthma, blood pressure, cardiovascular disorders, and spinal injuries to name a few.

Unlike people who pop into class when it is convenient, therapy involves a dedicated approach to healing and monitoring of progress carefully. This process helps create the right environment or detach from an unsuitable environment for sustainable changes. A therapist encourages the aspirant to be attentive and mindful on and off the mat referring the aspirant to a medical practitioner for aspects beyond the purview of yoga.

For the benefits of therapy to be fully realized, the therapist and the aspirant need to be trusting of each other and patient with the process. Yoga therapy is about pacing oneself appropriately because trying to reach a goal too soon or not pushing enough when the body and mind are ready may do more harm than good.

Integration
With dedicated guidance, practice and support, a tremendous positive development can be seen among patients. Once an aspirant truly experiences the benefits of Yoga therapy, it’s hard to go back to toxic habits that may cause or aggravate diseases.Everyone regardless of age, gender, or physical capacity can benefit from this ancient tradition of Yoga and holistic healing therapy. This International Yoga Day, join the multitude who have witnessed betterment from yoga and spread the word about Yoga’s myriad benefits.