What is Yoga Therapy?

        Yoga therapy is first and foremost yoga—a long-established, holistic discipline that acknowledges the multidimensional nature of the human being. Yoga therapy distinguishes itself through its ability to tailor specific techniques to meet the health needs and goals of a particular group or individual.  As defined by the International Association of Yoga Therapists, yoga therapy is “the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teachings and practices of yoga.” Working with a yoga therapist, either one-on-one or in a group, can be a transformative approach to promote health and healing, and to reducing symptoms associated with common medical conditions.  Based on a thorough understanding of the client’s goals, medical history, and personal background, the yoga therapist can design a customized Yoga Therapy practice to be applied over a series of sessions. The client is provided with the tools and techniques to address their specific goals and concerns.

Who Can Benefit from Yoga Therapy?

        Yoga Therapy is ideal for those with a specific concern or condition that cannot be resolved in a traditional class setting, as well as for those seeking a powerful, non-invasive, and cost-effective complement to traditional Western medicine.  Yoga Therapy is customized to fit the individual, and does not require the knowledge of, nor the ability to do traditional yoga poses. Props, such as chairs, blankets and blocks, are generally used to fit the practice to the individual, rather than the other way around. The entire practice can be done sitting in a chair.

Yoga Therapy has been shown to improve conditions including:

• back & neck pain

• joint pain, arthritis

• disc & spinal conditions

• injury recovery

• heart disease

• diabetes

• digestive disorders

• anxiety & depression

• PTSD, trauma & grief recovery

• insomnia

• post surgical recovery

• support during cancer treatment

• neurological disorders (Stroke, MS, Parkinson’s)

• fibromyalgia

• autoimmune disorders

For More Information

        Please visit Namaste Centered Yoga Therapy for more information and to contact 

Renée Laevsky.  Renée is a 500-hour Advanced Teacher of Therapeutic Yoga (E-RYT 500, YACEP.) and is currently a student teacher enrolled at the world-renowned Kripalu School of Integrative Yoga Therapy (KIYT).  She is looking forward to completing her full 800-hour Yoga Therapy Certification in 2021.