Did you know that Fillmore Physical Therapy is now offering Yoga? As we have begun this program there have been many different responses, views, and misconceptions about this form of exercise. I myself have had some different ideas about what Yoga is, but I knew enough to know that it would be good for me, and good for anyone in our community that would like to improve their overall health.
What is Yoga & what can it do for you?
The most common perception of Yoga is that it is just an intense stretching program. Yoga is a type of therapy that uses different postures and positions, breathing techniques & exercises, & meditation to improve mental and physical health. Some of the benefits of yoga are increased flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone, improved respiration, energy and vitality, maintaining a balanced metabolism, weight reduction, cardio and circulatory health, improved athletic performance, protection from injury. In addition to these physical benefits, there are mental benefits as well. One of the best benefits of yoga is how it helps a person manage stress, which is known to have effects on the mind and body. I mean, how many of us carry our stress physically? Ever had a tension headache? Upper back and neck pain? Where do you carry your stress?
One misconception people have when thinking about yoga is that if they aren’t athletic or if they aren’t in shape or flexible that it isn’t something that they can do. In the words of Dwight Schrute from “The Office”…. “FALSE!” Anyone, can do yoga, from young to old, all shapes and sizes, all levels of flexibility and athleticism. Yoga can be customized to whatever your ability is. Don’t feel like you can do all those funky twisted up headstand poses? Don’t. Do the ones that work for you and your body. There are blocks and blankets and other pieces of equipment to make poses easier and customizable to you. What if you’ve had an injury that you’re recovering from, or are worried about aggravating? Again, do what you can do and let the rest go.
Want to give yoga a try? Come and join us at Fillmore Physical Therapy on Thursday nights at 7 pm. Our instructor is Bonnie Stewart. She creates a peaceful environment where you can focus on improving your overall health.