Yoga & Meditation

Yoga TherapyThis 5,000 year old tradition is complex, rich and deep. The word yoga means union. It is both a union of heart and mind and also a joining of mind and body. The union happens initially by syncing the body with the breath. Body movement or simply body awareness joins with breath. In the midst of this connection we are also joining attention and intention.

Unlike the yoga you might be accustomed to in a gym or internet class, this is not just a series of exercises. It is a system of many practices that can be customized to meet individual goals. Some might call it a lifestyle. Some might call it a physiological, psychological or spiritual practice. Yoga has the potential to be any or all of those things, depending on your goals. One of the main goals of the course is optimal health.  Another is mental calm or stability. Another is enlightenment. Whatever goal you start with, yoga is a proven path. It has a ton of research behind it.

 Benefits of Yoga

Mental Health Benefits:

Yoga strengthens many parts of the brain. Think of it as weightlifting for the brain. But it also strengthens many parts of the body as well. It’s like giving your whole nervous system a tune up.

Physical Benefits of Yoga:

  • Decreases arthritic pain
  • Relieves back pain
  • Better balance
  • Better strength
  • Improved flexibility
  • A healthier heart

To read about more of yoga’s many benefits. You can go here and here.

Yoga vs Yoga Therapy

All yoga is potentially healing.  Yet, when you take a yoga class, that class is designed with a general population in mind. The goals of the class are typically general. A class might be focused on stress relief, strength, flexibility, or simply to work out. Although a class might be organized around a particular theme such as back bends, twists, or relaxation, its focus is meant to help the general public. Essentially, because Yoga therapy is tailor made to a specific individual or group, it can take that healing a step farther. It uses specific yogic tools such as postures, movement, and breath work, meditation techniques to address a specific therapeutic goal.

How It Works

A yoga therapist will work with you individually or in a small group. Typically, there is an assessment process to first diagnose the problem and also address an individual’s needs. Both a person’s strengths, challenges and unique constitution are assessed. Next, therapeutic goals in the form of a treatment plan to address the problem. Therapeutic goals can range from treating depression, anxiety, or trauma to dealing with chronic pain or other health issues. While people often come to yoga therapy with a problem they want to address, we always treat the whole person.  Not just the problem. Again, the ultimate goal is optimal health and life satisfaction. It is to help a person flourish

It should be noted that Yoga therapy is not just for women. Men can benefit too. Yoga therapy can also be adapted to meet kids needs. Especially when combined with play and creative expression.

Are you ready for the healing powers of yoga therapy?

Connect with an experienced Yoga Therapist by contacting our office.  We’ve got you covered whether you are new to yoga or have tons of experience on the mat. We will help guide you toward better total health.

We are located in St Louis, Missouri and serve couples in the following communities: Webster Groves, Kirkwood, Crestwood, Maplewood, Brentwood, Rockhill, Richmond Heights, Clayton, Shrewsbury, Lindenwood, Ladue, Central West End and the surrounding areas.

Give us a call at (314) 827-5448 or email us at admin@danceofchange.com.