I don’t know if I can really call this a blog since technically, there is no place for comments here. Still, I often get questions for poses and sequences to help particular ailments and so….here is some seva with shortened and simplified versions of sequences. Many of the sequences I’ll post here are tried and true methods I’ve used with my own clients. My best intentions are that others will benefit from them and find freedom from pain.
Update: Full yoga therapy sequences will be available in an upcoming release of my yoga therapy book for yoga teachers.
Yoga Therapy for Spinal Arthritis
Cat Stretch – 15x Child’s Pose – 5 breaths Downward Dog – 10 breaths Child’s Pose – 5 breaths Gentle repetition of Ardha Matsyendrasana – 5x then hold 5 breaths Savasana – 10 or more min
This sequence may be simple, but after two sessions per week and practicing these poses once daily, I and my client were able to relieve a very dire and severe case of spinal arthritic pain within one month.
Yoga Therapy for Emphysema
Exhaling Ujjayi – 10x Seated Cat Stretch – 15x Seated Utthanasana – 5 breaths Seated Warrior II – 10 breaths Seated Parsvakonasana – 10 breaths Angel Wings/Open Chest Stretch – 10x Chair Twist – 10 breaths Kapalbhati – 15x Seated Visualization Savasana – 10 or more min
I have used this daily sequence for seniors with emphysema and have had very good results over a short period of time. It’s important to make sure that all movement is done with mindful breath. Be sure not to strain in kapalbhati.
Yoga Therapy for Lower Back Pain
Cat Stretch – 15x Table to Child’s Pose – 10x Child’s Pose – 10 breaths Downward Facing Dog – 10 breaths One Legged Downward Facing Dog – 3 breaths One Legged Pigeon – Hold 5 breaths then lower the upper body to the mat for 5 breaths. Then repeat rising and lowering the upper body in one breath increments 10x. Child’s Pose – 5 breaths Repeat entire sequence thus far on the other side. Jathara Parivartanasana (belly twist on both sides remaining relaxed) – 15 breaths Savasana – 10 or more min
This sequence should be practiced everyday or every other day in order to get fast pain relief.