Is there a type of yoga a disabled person could do, a person with limited movement and balance?
Of course there is. The beauty of yoga is that it can be practiced by just about anyone irrespective of age, sex or ability. There are several success stories about how yoga has helped people manage their disabilities or recover after an accident or illness. People who are unfit whether mentally or physically can all enjoy the benefits of yoga.
Even though disability could hamper the practice of certain poses, under the guidance of a trained and experienced yoga instructor, there are many postures that can be modified as per your capabilities. Some poses can be performed on a wheelchair or even from a bed. Popular asanas or yoga poses for people with a limited range of movement include variations of the Cobra Pose, the Half-Tortoise Pose, and the Mountain Pose. As you move through the carefully selected postures, yoga helps tone muscles and increase flexibility. The internal organs get stimulated, glands get activated and overall health is improved. In addition to the asanas, the practice of pranayama is very beneficial to the differently-abled. These yoga breathing techniques help reduce stress and anxiety and may improve problems such as depression and post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Always consult with your doctor before beginning any new fitness regime. Yoga should be used to complement your present medical and fitness routine and not as a cure-all solution for various health problems and conditions.
Submitted by A V on May 25, 2012 at 06:06
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