In India, where yoga originated, people used to visit yoga masters instead of doctors to obtain yoga poses as prescriptions to treat their ailments (some still do). Yoga has since become widely popular in the U.S., and many medical providers are now beginning to integrate yoga into patient care. The physical practice, or postures, are becoming well-known as a low-impact way to stretch, strengthen, and increase mobility of the body. Having a regular practice can be used as a way to recover from pains, strains, and imbalances that have built up over time. It can also be paired with favorite activities – like running, weight lifting, or cycling – to balance out repetitive movements and keep muscles from tightening up from overuse. People with chronic pain or tension often find yoga is a great option to move, get blood flowing to tight muscles, and find relief without straining their areas of discomfort.
Yoga’s benefits, however, extend far beyond the physical practice. The mind-body connection that is fostered in a yoga practice begins to turn awareness inward, tapping into what the body is actually feeling. Our bodies are always providing us with valuable information whether we are listening or not. The problem is most often, we are not. We become accustom to tuning out signals until something flares up to the point we can no longer ignore it. The more tuned in you are, the better care you can take, and the less likely you’ll be to ignore symptoms until they become unbearable.
In order to achieve the mind-body connection in yoga we pay close attention to our breath. What’s fascinating is our breath can actually change our relationship to pain. Learning to send breath to areas that are holding tension can help to soften tense muscles and calm harried nerves. Focused breathing can also increase our ability to feel and be at peace with discomfort. In time, we can rewire our brains so that rather than resist pain – which creates more discomfort – we can have an awareness of it without letting it rule the day. The breath, as well as the meditative aspects of yoga, can also help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This clicks on a calmer, more restful state, where the body’s natural healing abilities are able to thrive.Marathon Physical Therapy’s Norwood clinic is excited to offer patients and the community the opportunity to add yoga to their routine and begin to reap these benefits! On June 20 the clinic will launch a weekly Gentle Yoga class on Wednesday nights from 6-7pm. Space is limited, so sign up today to reserve your spot.