Welcome to our guide on adaptive yoga. This practice focuses on making yoga open to all. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting or if you’ve practiced for years. Adaptive yoga welcomes everyone, allowing them to enjoy the perks of this ancient art. Matthew Sanford started Mind Body Solutions in 1997. He was among the first to teach yoga after becoming paralyzed. His and JoAnn Lyons’ insights have led to a more welcoming yoga style.
Key Takeaways:
- Adaptive yoga adjusts poses to meet individual abilities. This makes yoga possible for everyone.
- Those who practice adaptive yoga often see life and mental health benefits.
- It’s been found helpful for conditions like Parkinson’s and can boost self-compassion and balance.
- Practicing adaptive yoga helps build a community. This leads to strong bonds between participants.
- There are many places, both online and in-person, that offer adaptive yoga for everyone, no matter their ability.
What is adaptive yoga?
Adaptive yoga welcomes everyone, no matter their physical or neurological limits. It understands that each person is different. This style changes poses to fit unique needs and abilities. In these classes, you’ll find a supportive space. Here, each person can do yoga without pressure, adjusting to their pace.
Matthew Sanford is a leader in adaptive yoga, starting Mind Body Solutions. He teaches yoga to many, from those with full mobility to those in comas. Since 1997, his work inspired a broad outreach. Adaptive yoga today meets varied health needs and requirements.
JoAnn Lyons, a seasoned teacher with 25 years under her belt, advocates adapting yoga for all. Her method opens yoga to a wide audience, making benefits accessible to everyone regardless of ability. This inclusive strategy makes yoga a welcoming space for all.
“Adaptive yoga classes offer a supportive environment where individuals of all abilities can practice at their own pace.”
Who is adaptive yoga for?
Adaptive yoga welcomes people with varied physical limitations. It is suitable for many, including those who had surgeries. It also helps people with health conditions like Parkinson’s, and those with disabilities.
For older adults needing modified poses, special classes are offered. These aim to build strength and flexibility. They also ease stress and foster a sense of community.
If you need yoga tailored to your needs, adaptive yoga is for you. It ensures everyone can join and enjoy its benefits.
The Yoga Home training helps professionals and caregivers learn to teach adaptive yoga. They learn how to create inclusive classes for people of different abilities.
This training can be done in person or through livestream. The small class size ensures safety during the pandemic. All in-person attendees must be vaccinated.
Yoga Home offers flexible pricing to make classes affordable. This model supports financial hardship, self-reflection, and mindfulness. It’s a step towards making adaptive yoga available to everyone.
In a nutshell, adaptive yoga is open to all, regardless of limitations. Thanks to the welcoming environment and expert guidance at Yoga Home, everyone can enjoy the benefits of yoga.
What are the benefits of adaptive yoga?
Adaptive yoga is great for anyone, no matter their abilities. It improves life quality and balance, and helps you function every day better. It’s safe and works well for health issues like Parkinson’s. Plus, it boosts mental health. Adaptive yoga also brings people together. It creates a strong support network for those with disabilities.
Studies have found great things about adaptive yoga. People with spinal cord injuries felt less depressed and more mindful after six weeks. They also felt better about themselves.
“Adaptive yoga changed how I see my body. I’ve learned to be kinder to myself,” said John, who tried it out.
Adaptive yoga is good for the body too. Yoga Journal says it makes muscles stronger, improves flexibility, and fixes posture. It even lessens spasms, pain, and strengthens arms and legs.
The best part of adaptive yoga is how easy it is to start. It fits anyone, even if you’re in a wheelchair. You can adjust the moves while sitting. This is really helpful for people with spinal cord injuries.
Adaptive yoga is life-changing for many. It makes you strong in body and mind. Most of all, it helps you be kind to yourself. Plus, it’s a great way to meet others facing similar challenges.
What equipment do you need for adaptive yoga?
Adaptive yoga helps people with diverse needs practice comfortably. You can start without special equipment, but some props make it easier. These tools change poses to match what you can do.
Some common tools for adaptive yoga include:
- Blocks: These foam blocks help with balance and make poses easier. They can lower the floor for some poses.
- Bolsters: Firm, comfy bolsters support the body and help you relax. They’re great for gentle stretches and resting.
- Straps: Straps improve posture and help change poses smoothly. They fit different body shapes and boost flexibility.
- Chairs: They provide stability for those who need it. Chair yoga supports many poses while seated or using the chair for balance.
Recommended Adaptive Yoga Equipment
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Avana Sleek Chaise Lounge | A comfortable chaise lounge in various colors, perfect for different activities like reading, exercise, or relaxing. |
| Gaiam Classic Balance Ball Chair | A balance ball chair ideal for users between 5 feet to 5 feet 11 inches tall, it includes an air pump. |
| Gayo Bolster Pillow | This bolster pillow is soft, eco-friendly, and ideal for restorative yoga, allowing breathability and comfort. |
| Yoga Strap | This yoga strap makes changing poses easy and is portable by folding into a small size. |
| Wrist Buddy Yoga Blocks | These special blocks help wrists during yoga, reducing pressure, and are non-slip. They come in a pair. |
| Yoga Foam Wedges | Yoga wedges improve stretching to prevent injuries. They are essential for safe yoga practice. |
| Yoga Stick Pillow | A versatile pillow for yoga or office chairs, it offers support with high-density material that slowly rebounds. |
These are just some examples of gear for adaptive yoga. Choose what fits your needs best. Talking with your yoga instructor or therapist is wise to find the right gear.
Where can you find an adaptive yoga class?
Are you looking for adaptive yoga classes? You’re in luck! There are many options available, both online and in-person. Here are some groups that offer these classes:
- Mind Body Solutions
- Adaptive Yoga Live
- Accessible Yoga Classes
- Yoga for All
- Yoga Moves MS
- Piedmont Yoga Community
These groups offer yoga classes for everyone, no matter their abilities or health conditions. You can go to their websites to learn more about the classes they provide. This will tell you how to join in.
Whether you like joining in online or being part of a local group, you can find a class that fits. You’ll also get the support you need in yoga.
Tips for getting started with adaptive yoga
Starting adaptive yoga is a big step. Here are tips for a great start:
- Arrive early and discuss your needs: Try to get to your first class a little early. Or for online classes, log in ahead of time. This extra time lets you talk to the teacher about what you need and what your concerns are. Being open and honest with them helps make the session fit you better.
- Be honest about your disabilities and health issues: Open up about any disabilities or health issues you have. Your teacher can help you more if they know these things. They can adjust the class to fit your needs. Remember, every disability is different. So, the more you tell, the better your experience will be.
- Listen to your body: It’s key to pay attention to your body in class. Understand that everyone’s body is different. What’s easy for one may not be for another. If something doesn’t feel right, tell your teacher. They can help change the pose or offer a different exercise that suits you better.
- Embrace the modifications: Adaptive yoga uses many tools to make it easier, like blocks and chairs. These help you do poses comfortably. Don’t compare yourself to others. Remember, adaptive yoga is all about making it work for you.
- Personalize your practice: The beauty of adaptive yoga is that it can be tailored just for you. Everyone has their own abilities and limits. Working with your teacher, you can adjust the practice to fit you perfectly. This way, you can get the most out of adaptive yoga.
“Adaptive yoga is about creating a practice that adapts to your unique needs and abilities. Through open communication, embracing modifications, and personalizing your practice, you can embark on a fulfilling and inclusive yoga journey.” – JoAnn Lyons
These tips will help make your adaptive yoga journey positive. Remember, adaptive yoga is all about fitting everyone and giving personal attention. Feel free to speak up about what you need. Let adaptive yoga show you the way to better physical, mental, and emotional health.
YAFA – Self-Awareness, Self-Compassion, and Self-Agency
YAFA stands for Yoga Alliance for All. We are committed to growing self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-agency. Our yoga program welcomes everyone, whether they have physical or mental challenges. Our teachers are highly qualified, with certifications like 200RYT, 500HR RYT, and more.
When you take a class at YAFA, you join a community that values the power of yoga. Our classes are not led by doctors, but teachers who adapt yoga to suit you. You’ll find a secure, welcoming space to practice at your own speed.
In our unique program, teachers team up, offering you more dedicated care. They work together to make sure your needs are understood and met. This collaboration means you get a tailored yoga experience every time.
YAFA is thankful to be supported by the 501(c)(3) Center for Community Stewardship. This support lets us focus on reaching out to those who need yoga the most. Our work is designed for people dealing with life’s challenges like aging or facing health issues.
Since 2018, Iris Mickey and Paul Mross started YAFA to help communities of all kinds. We join hands with local groups to make yoga available to everyone.
In ending, YAFA is all about enhancing self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-agency. We work hard to offer a welcoming place where yoga’s life-changing benefits are open to all, no matter the obstacles.
| Certifications | Founder | Established |
|---|---|---|
| 200RYT Certification | Iris Mickey and Paul Mross | 2018 |
| 500HR RYT, Yoga Therapy, RMTi |
Yoga Home – Creating a Safe and Supportive Space
Yoga Home is dedicated to creating a welcoming space for everyone. We offer classes for all ages and abilities. Our teachers are skilled and caring, especially in classes like Chair and Adaptive Yoga. These are perfect for people with physical challenges.
Modifying postures for individual needs: Our teachers know everyone is different. They can change yoga poses to fit your abilities. They use things like chairs and blocks, making yoga possible for all.
Classes for mixed levels and abilities: We think everyone can benefit from yoga. So, our doors are open to beginners and advanced yogis alike. Our teachers make sure everyone can join in and grow, no matter what level they’re at.
“Yoga Home provides a safe and inclusive space for individuals to explore the practice of yoga, regardless of their abilities. Our classes focus on enhancing strength, balance, flexibility, and stress management, helping students improve their overall well-being,” says Kerri Hanlon, our esteemed instructor and founder of Yoga Home’s Adaptive Yoga Program.
Our studio is ADA compliant, supporting those with mobility needs. Donations help more people access our Adaptive Yoga Program. This program makes yoga available to those with disabilities.
Yoga Home has a class that’s perfect for everyone. Besides Adaptive and Chair Yoga, we also have classes for caregivers. For those wanting a one-on-one session, private instruction is available. We even have programs for schools to help kids and young adults be well.
Want to know more about our classes and community? Visit our website or get in touch. Come join Yoga Home for a supportive and inclusive yoga experience.
| Training Details | Dates | Instructor |
|---|---|---|
| Limited to 15 students for an intimate and COVID-safe experience | Friday, October 21 (6-9pm) Saturday, October 22 (9am-5pm) Sunday, October 23 (10am-4pm) | Kerri Hanlon (e-RYT trainer, former Accessible Yoga Board Member, Trainer, and Ambassador) |
| Includes lecture/discussion, Adaptive and Chair Yoga classes, and partner work | Pricing Model: Community-tiered Pricing $350: Supporting both the participant and others in the community $300: Participant only $250: Community-supported rate |
Yoga Home Training and Community Support
At Yoga Home, we believe yoga should be for everyone, including those with physical disabilities. Our program teaches instructors how to change postures and breathing techniques for different needs. You can join in at our studio or in online classes, we make sure both are available.
Inclusive and COVID-Safe Experience
Our training welcomes you in a small, safe space. It’s important for us that you feel secure when learning yoga, so we keep everything clean. For those who choose to learn from home, our livestream classes offer a fun way to practice.
Pricing Tiers for Community Accessibility
Yoga is for everyone, and that includes our prices. We believe in fair pricing so everyone can join. This way, we can all learn and support each other in our yoga paths.
Ready to change lives through yoga? Join our training at Yoga Home and let’s make the world more inclusive together.
Yoga Home Training Options
| Training Program | Format | Pricing Tiers |
|---|---|---|
| In-Studio Training | In-person at Yoga Home | Standard, Supporter, Community |
| Livestream Training | Online via livestream | Standard, Supporter, Community |
Join us at Yoga Home to share the gift of yoga with all. Our program equips you to be a great adaptive yoga teacher. Lets build a caring community for people with different needs together.
Kerri Hanlon and the Adaptive Yoga Program
Kerri Hanlon co-founded and runs our Adaptive Yoga at Yoga Home. She’s experienced in adapting yoga for anyone to join. Her story shows her commitment to making yoga for everyone.
Her efforts started with her son, Sean, who had complex disabilities. Although Sean is no longer with us, his memory fuels Kerri’s drive to create welcoming yoga spaces.
The program is a safe zone for people recovering or dealing with conditions. Kerri’s deep insight led to a program that welcomes all.
Kerri has trained many in Adaptive Yoga. She brings her knowledge to conferences, spreading the word on inclusive yoga practices. She’s a key part of our community.
The Adaptive Yoga plan at Yoga Home fits all ages and needs. Kerri’s approach makes sure everyone finds a suitable class.
Yoga Home also offers training for a wide audience, both in person and live online. This approach makes sure yoga reaches as many people as possible.
Both in-person and Livestream options are available for the training. This accommodates different people, making sure yoga is open to all.
In-studio classes have a small size for better learning. This arrangement offers more personal attention during the training.
The next training dates are set for October. They aim to be affordable and welcoming to all, priced in three tiers. This makes learning yoga possible for many.
Kerri Hanlon and the program strive to make yoga open and beneficial for everyone. Her work inspires us all at Yoga Home.
Conclusion
Adaptive yoga opens its arms to everyone, no matter their abilities. It makes sure that anyone can enjoy the good things about yoga, even if they face physical or neurological challenges. By adapting and modifying, it shows yoga is for all, boosting inclusivity and personal development.
Studies prove that adaptive yoga helps with managing pain, improving health, and feeling emotionally well. It also reduces stress and increases awareness of the body. Some research even shows that yoga can make balance and movement better in older folks.
And it’s not all. It can reduce chronic neck pain and help those with vision problems better keep their balance. Thanks to groups like Mind Body Solutions, YAFA, and Yoga Home, more people can join in. Their work helps make yoga more welcoming and available, building a space where everyone fits.
But adaptive yoga isn’t just about the physical. It’s empowering. It helps people discover and accept themselves. By making practices personal, it encourages a supportive environment. One where anyone can connect, belong, and grow. This is the beauty and power of yoga’s inclusivity.