Yoga is for every body, and it can be profoundly healing. Here's how to get the benefits. Yoga is an ancient practice of moving towards wholeness. It can be adopted by anyone, and there are practically as many ways to practice it as there are practitioners. Whether you are seriously ill and bedridden or view yourself as very healthy, there are always yoga techniques and practices that you can employ to move towards greater well-being. Yoga, when done appropriately and regularly, can help to do the following: Reduce anxiety Promote the "rest and digest" aspect of the nervous system (parasympathetic nervous system) Promote sound and restful sleep Reduce pain and stiffness in joints, muscles, and connective tissues Create overall strength, awareness, and harmony in the mind, body, and spirit Tips for finding a class Yoga classes and studios can be a great place to find community, encouragement, and guidance from other students and the teacher. Keep an open mind, and try a variety of classes to see if any seem like a good fit. You may not find a class that resonates with you right away — that’s okay! Modern yoga classes often include instructions that accommodate larger groups; don't be afraid to keep looking until you find one that's more tailored to the individual and a teacher who is knowledgeable and caring. If you have essentially no mobility, check out practices like pranayama (breathing practices), yoga nidra (a guided, deep relaxation process), and mindful meditation. These practices may also be done by those with full mobility as well. If you have limited energy or mobility, check out Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Iyengar Yoga. Most of all, remember that yoga is not a competition. Everyone is traveling down their own path, so comparisons can be very misleading. Use yoga props (blocks, blankets, bolsters, straps) as needed to safely do postures. And focus on your form, not on achieving the most advanced expression of a pose. If books are more up your alley, or classes are hard to come by, then here are a few additional resources: Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times, by Judith Lasater. This is a full introduction to Restorative Yoga. The Breathing Book, by Donna Farhi, for a full introduction to pranayama and many practical exercises for healing Yin Yoga books and videos by either Paul Grilley or Sarah Powers Thich Nhat Hanh and Jon Kabat-Zinn have great works on Mindful Meditation and mindfulness in medicine. Start with Hanh’s Peace is Every Step. For a general introduction to yoga postures and practice, check out Eric Shiffman’s The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness. If you are interested in starting a long-term yoga practice, start small and create a routine of doing a little each day. Over time, the practices you dedicate yourself to will support your recovery and everyday living. As always, please feel free to contact the Vital Plan office if you have questions or would like further guidance on this topic. Happy practicing! Tim Yarborough Registered Yoga Teacher, 500-Hour Level Vital Plan Wellness Director *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program. The Vital Plan is a company devoted to enhancing wellness through education, support, and herbal supplements. No longer want to receive these emails? Unsubscribe. Vital Plan | 1122 Oberlin Rd. Suite 232 Raleigh, NC 27605.