Yoga rehabilitation after injury has begun to gain mainstream attention for a natural healing remedy that is centuries old. Yoga offers a unique approach to rehabilitation by enhancing the natural healing process of the body to relieve pain and improve your health.
The asanas in yoga support healing after injury in several ways. Practicing yoga strengthens the muscles of the body, stretches the muscles and helps to align the body. The pranayama breathing in yoga brings oxygen rich blood to the body, which helps the body heal and assists in rehabilitation.
Dealing with an injury is stressful and anxiety increases pain and slows the healing process. Incorporating yoga into rehabilitation relieves the stress and anxiety that is so common after an injury and allowing the patient to experience healing in the body and mind.
When using yoga for rehabilitation after an injury, there are more precautions than in a typical yoga class. The first thing to do is speak to your doctor about the benefits of using yoga to help you heal and make sure you are using asanas that will support the healing process and avoid any poses that have the potential to cause additional injury.
The best way to avoid injury is to exercise under the guidance of a qualified yoga therapist who his experienced and knowledgeable about injuries and rehabilitation. Your yoga therapist will practice with you and provide you with suggestions for a home practice that is appropriate for your stage of healing.
To find a yoga therapist, you can inquire at your doctor’s office or rehabilitation centers in your area. You may also be able to find listings for yoga therapists in your area by searching online. The International Association of Yoga Therapists is a good place to start. Their website can be found at www.iayt.org.