Yoga and Rehabilitation
Yoga has an array of diverse applications from helping to improve flexibility to teaching mindfulness. The poses can be largely tailored depending on the abilities and experience level of the student, meaning it’s suitable for all participants.
It is even often recommended by physios and doctors as a strategy to help re-introduce yourself to movement following injury or surgery. If you have recently suffered an injury and are looking for a gentle way to get back into exercise, yoga on the Mornington Peninsula could be the answer — providing, of course, that your doctor gives you the all clear.
A little bit about yoga
Yoga’s origins can be traced over 5000 years ago to India where it was a spiritual practice linked to Buddhism and Hinduism. Mentions of yoga can be found in ancient sacred texts known as the Rig Veda.
Over the past few thousands of years, many other cultures have adopted the stretches and poses found in yoga and the practice itself has evolved considerably. What has remained consistent is a focus on both mental and physical wellbeing.
The advantages of practising yoga on a regular basis are countless. Not only will you experience improved strength and flexibility but the principles of mindfulness taught through yoga can help you tackle challenges and obstacles in your own life with reduced stress and anxiety.
Types of yoga
There are many different types of yoga, each designed to offer particular benefits and challenges. Some types of yoga will be more suitable to those undertaking rehabilitation than others. One of the benefits of taking private yoga sessions near me — like those offered at Mount Martha Yoga — is that you will be able to work with your instructor to tailor your practice around any areas of concern or weakness.
Common types of yoga include:
Vinyasa yoga: A style of yoga characterised by poses that are strung together through movement. Vinyasa yoga has a certain flow to it and is one of the most popular forms of contemporary yoga.
Iyengar yoga: A type of yoga that often requires the use of props, including blocks and blankets. Iyengar yoga generally involves holding poses for a lengthy period of time and focusing on the structural alignment of the body. The use of props means Iyengar yoga may be suitable for those returning from an injury or who have limited mobility.
Yin yoga: A slow style of yoga that targets deep connective tissues and joints. Poses are typically held for a long period of time (often up to five minutes) with the goal of improving flexibility and releasing tension.
Restorative yoga: A passive, meditative form of yoga that is designed to support physical, emotional, and mental relaxation. Similarly to yin yoga, restorative yoga may involve holding poses for a prolonged period of time, with only a handful of poses performed during a session.
Yoga and rehabilitation
Not all types of yoga will be suitable for rehabilitative purposes. Any styles that are particularly fast-moving or high-impact should generally be avoided, particularly if you are just returning to exercise.
Other strategies you should implement to avoid exacerbating an injury include:
- Start small: You may be participating in a low-impact form of yoga but if you haven’t exercised for weeks, or even months, a class that runs too long is only going to do damage. Start with shorter sessions — even five to ten minutes — and gradually build up to your desired length.
- Stop at any sign of pain: Yoga will stretch your muscles and connective tissues but as a rule, it shouldn’t be painful. At the first sign of pain, stop and consult your instructor. They’ll be able to confirm whether you’re simply stretching out a stiff muscle or causing actual damage.
- Take private classes: The best way to avoid an injury is by practising proper technique. This is true for yoga and all other types of exercise. By taking private classes, the instructor will be able to work one-on-one with you to ensure you’re employing proper technique and looking after yourself.
If you’re recovering from an injury and are keen to get back into some form of exercise, yoga could certainly be the answer. As always, speak to your doctor before signing up to a class or booking a lesson with a private instructor.
At Mount Martha Yoga, Emily is passionate about helping all students feel comfortable and confident in their practice. If you’re located on the Mornington Peninsula and are thinking about taking private yoga sessions near me, contact Emily today to discuss your exercise history, any injury concerns you have, and what you are hoping to achieve through your yoga practice.
