What is Yoga?
Yoga is not a particular denomination or religion, but an age-old practice based on a harmonising system for the body, mind, and spirit to attain inner peace and liberation. Yoga is a tool that can deepen and benefit anyone, of any religion. It does not conflict with personal beliefs; it is simply a vehicle to help one transform oneself by promoting conscious connection with oneself, the world, and the highest truth.
Within the past decade, yoga has infiltrated not only Western culture, but also Western medicine. The more we learn about this ancient practice, the more we realize that its benefits go far beyond increased flexibility and muscle tone. A common misunderstanding is that yoga predominantly focuses on increasing flexibility; however, although Hatha Yoga, or the physical practice of yoga, does emphasize appropriate postural alignment, musculoskeletal strength and endurance as well as balance, the study and practice of yoga incorporates mindfulness-based practices such as mindful breathing techniques, focused concentration, meditation and self-reflection.
Yoga at Wellness on Alon
At Wellness on Alon, Yoga therapy is an individualised, personalised and holistic approach that takes into account not only the patient’s mind, body and spirit, but also their family, support network, work situation, and culture, as part of the patient’s individualised treatment plan.
As an example, if one is diagnosed with anxiety, a physician trained in Yoga Therapy may prescribe specific breathing techniques calming postures, mindfulness-based practices and/or meditation, as well as other lifestyle guidance. The mindfulness and meditation aspects of yoga are ways of training the mind so that one is not distracted and caught up in its endless churning thought stream. These practices build resilience, help the patient cope with stress and manage potential triggers for anxiety. They can also promote self-reflection that may uncover the source(s) of one’s anxiety.