When Doctors Suggest Yoga Therapy
When Doctors Suggest Yoga Therapy
Many a yoga teacher has quoted Sri K. Pattabhi Jois saying, "do your practice, and all is coming." The practice of yoga itself is transformative, often shaping our relationship to the body, the mind, and how we relate to the present moment. Yoga is unlike a pill or a surgical intervention; it is the slow and methodical growth and change of the student within their journey.
So, what happens when traditional Western medicine doctors suggest yoga therapy for their patients? Are these distinct methods of care and self-care parallel to each other, or do they blend seamlessly?
The place for yoga therapy as part of a holistic life choice
When it comes to yoga therapy, choosing a yogic lifestyle can integrate well with Western medical care. Through scientifically relevant and peer-reviewed data, modern medicine now sees that yoga therapy may benefit patients with various health challenges. Science tells us that yoga and mindfulness may positively affect our brains, change the levels of stress hormones in our bodies, and enhance general health by perhaps helping with pain management, insomnia, depression, and more.
Incorporating yoga therapy into a health care regime is tailored to the individual. Yoga as a therapeutic element of healing is also a whole-body approach. No stone is left unturned, and no aspect of the human form and spirit is ignored.
Movement and āsana address the body, or Annamaya Kosha. Prānāyāma encourages stress reduction and mindfulness. Meditation, sound immersion, and guided imagery also support this holistic life choice. These supportive tools allow the body and mind to relax, which supports a client’s physical healing.
The most significant benefit of yoga therapy could be that of balance and peace. While we usually think of peace as an ethereal existence, it's closely linked to the physical processes in the body. Yoga therapy stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation, stress reduction, and digestion.
In addition to a doctor-suggested yoga therapy program's physical and mental benefits, one can continue their practice as needed at home.
Where to find yoga therapy programs that partner with physicians and health care professionals
More physicians and health care workers understand yoga therapy as a holistic treatment that complements traditional western medicine. Cancer centers often have yoga therapy programs to support the physical and mental challenges of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, and concierge services and medical groups often in include yoga therapy in their services.
Yoga teachers with advanced training and certifications by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) partner with chiropractors, acupuncturists, physical therapists, and physicians to address an individual's specific needs. Integrative medicine centers and even private practices offer yoga alongside traditional Western treatments.
You may find that your doctor does not have a direct referral to a yoga therapy program. In that case, do a little bit of research into the yoga therapy programs in your area and uncover options. It's wise to have your physician consult with a yoga therapy provider before beginning. Healing is a team effort, and you want all your team members on the same page!
Becoming a yoga therapist
If you are a yoga teacher that enjoys the idea of using yoga to serve your student’s health challenges, consider seeking advanced yoga teacher training, specifically as a yoga therapist.
There are many advanced YTT courses available, and many you can even do online. For example, Prema Yoga Institute’s “Therapeutic Yoga Essentials” is available as an online course and addresses how to make yoga accessible for different populations, such as beginners and older populations.
Learn more about this topic by reading “Becoming a Yoga Therapist” from a previous blog.
Yoga therapy as a part of the wellness process blends seamlessly with health treatments
Whether your doctor has suggested yoga therapy or you are a yoga teacher exploring yoga therapy – we recommend doing your own research about the many possible benefits of yoga therapy.
If you have any questions about this topic, contact us at Prema Yoga Institute. Prema Yoga Institute is no longer limited to locals of New York City and is now available online with interactive trainings through 2022. PYI is an accredited program based in New York city, teaching students around the globe through online classes. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you advance your yoga practice and teaching!
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