The term Yoga Therapy is a relatively new one in North America. Most people who practice yoga regularly go to a local studio. These people are relatively healthy and a good stretch and strengthen makes them feel great. Yoga Therapy refers to a more clinical, or medical approach to the a yoga practice. It is almost like a prescription more specific to dis-ease. This could mean an actual disease like cancer or AIDS, or something that takes one away from their optimum state of health in body, mind or spirit. As Yoga Therapists we take a close look at each individuals state of being, acknowledging that each person has a completely different history up until this moment. So even if they are presenting with the same condition as the next person, their practice may look entirely different.

Yoga Therapy tends to apply to those who for whatever reason are not comfortable in the group format, or need some time to gather some information and tools for their toolbox before venturing into a group class. Or maybe they tried a class and hurt themselves!

Mostly I see people recovering from illness or surgery, or, have tried everything to manage their pain within the traditional western medical protocol. They are at their wits end with pain and will try anything to alleviate it. Someone recommends yoga and they find me. We have a lot of success, but not always. I have been delighted to see prescription meds decrease as the yoga practice grows, people forging forward on positive new trajectories in life, and managing their pain in a self responsible way, empowering themselves and others.

In my practice as a Yoga Therapist, I am working with people with cancer, MS, osteoporosis, arthritis, degenerative disc disease, ABS, digestive disorders…the list goes on and on. I’m honoured to be able to share my knowledge and experience with these brave people. It is truly inspiring to work with people who are choosing pro-active, self responsible medication over surgery and prescription drugs. I have had several clients whose Health Insurance covered their Yoga Therapy!

You can contact me for an appointment in Nelson at The Heritage Health Centre, 823 Baker Street. Phone 250-354-3885.
Or, to connect in Trail, please call Kootenay Columbia Therapeutics, 250-364-1516.

I would like to bring your attention to Shar Lee, one of our esteemed teachers, who will be leading the segment on Structural Yoga Therapy, this November at the Inner Peace Yoga Therapy teacher training program in North Carolina. Shar is one of the most inspiring and informed teachers I have ever studied with. She has been living a dedicated and meditative life for 40 years and this infuses her every word. Shar is busy teaching this summer, both Structural Yoga Therapy and Tibetan Cranial. We look forward to working with her in November.