Yoga is a spiritual discipline that has scientific values and is based on the art of healthy living and lifestyle. It concentrates on bringing harmony between the mind and the body by the means of different breathing techniques and various asanas. The term ‘yoga’ is originated from a Sanskrit word ‘yuj’, which means ‘to combine’ or ‘to unite’. The main philosophy behind yoga is that of self realisation and overcoming all the suffering by combining the power of the mind and the body to achieve the ultimate “moksha” (freedom). With its emphasis on breathing practices and mindful meditation- both of which helps reduce our stress and anxiety, and clear our minds, it is no surprise that yoga can have a great and lasting impact on our mental health as well.
‘Yoga therapy’ is a term that refers to the application of specific yoga practices, that are well known for their therapeutic benefits on the mind and body in order to ease off a person’s physical and mental stresses. Breathing techniques, postures, meditation, relaxation techniques, and the promotion of behavioural changes may all be included in yoga therapy sessions. Yoga therapy combines the client’s individual and specific health demands with yoga practices that have been found to have specific healing effects by both the yoga and Ayurvedic tradition as well as the medical research. There are extremely particular Yogasanas for example, one which helps with back pain and the related issues. Similarly, with Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), there are specific techniques that can be used to help regulate the nervous system and bringing the person some peace by making them aware about their surroundings.
Yoga has been in India for time unknown now and it has been proven really helpful since. This practice is rooted deeply into the spiritual, philosophical, and Ayurvedic background of our country and thus helps us connect with our mind and body in a very natural and calming ways. Yoga therapy is making its way into the world by being backed by scientific evidences and emphasis on its efficiency in the healing power. It is well acquainted with the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder etc. People also suggest Yoga therapy to those struggling with addiction and substance use issues because this helps the person to have enough time to do self introspection and gives the necessary time to heal the body and mind, on its own.
What most people question is that what exactly do one expect from ‘yoga therapy’?
- Identifying various health problems that are bothering you,
- Assessing your lifestyle and physical capabilities,
- Talking about “why do you think you need help?”,
- Create a course of treatment to help you recover.
Once these questions are answered and the therapist and the client have worked with a proper session routine, the actual sessions begin which will include the practice of different forms of physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, guided imagery etc. Yoga therapy is one extensive form of therapy which needs dedication and a strong will to commit to. As effective as it may sound, it also depends on how resilient and hopeful the client is to see the changes in themselves. Its all the game of our mind and body and any sort of resistance can hamper with the progress of the journey.
Yoga is a lifestyle in itself and it encompasses majority of healthy practices that one should indulge in to have a happy and fine life.
