Therapeutic yoga

Therapeutic yoga is a modern branch of yoga, distinct from classical yoga practiced in group classes. It draws on thousands of years of Indian yogic tradition but adapts postures, breathing and meditations to specific health goals. Recognized in India as official therapy since 2014.

Therapeutic yoga combines four components: asanas (adapted postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), meditation and relaxation. The practice is individualized according to your physical condition, your injury history, your goals. The yoga-therapist often works in complement with your doctor or physiotherapist.

First appointment: 60 to 90 minutes. Postural assessment, mobility, breathing, injury history, goals. The yoga-therapist then creates a personalized sequence that you will practice in session and at home. Follow-up is regular (once every 1-2 weeks).

Chronic pain (back, joints), stress and anxiety, insomnia, chronic pathology support (cancer, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia), post-injury recovery, respiratory disorder management (mild asthma), perimenopause.

Therapeutic yoga benefits from growing research: proven beneficial effect on chronic low back pain, depression, anxiety, hypertension, quality of life in oncology. Recognized and integrated in several North American hospitals.

Verify training: a serious yoga-therapist has at minimum 500 hours of yoga training + therapeutic specialization (additional 200 hours). Typical fees: $80 to $130 for an individual session. Group classes cost $15 to $25.