Yoga Benefits for Stroke Survivors
The effects of a stroke vary, depending on the severity of it.
When a stroke occurs, the brain is deprived of oxygen resulting in loss
of memory and speech, agility, movement and balance. Along with the
physical side effects of a stroke come a host of emotional issues as a
result of these drastic life changes. Yoga has proven to be an effective
type of therapy for stroke patients as it helps with both the physical
and mental side effects of the stroke. There are many benefits of
incorporating yoga training into a rehabilitation program.
Improved Balance
Asanas improve balance, even when they are modified to accommodate patients who cannot walk, stand or even sit on their own. Patients can use a number of different props when working with a trained yoga therapist or yoga instructor. Over time, patients can learn which poses are most beneficial for them. They can then employ the postures during other times of the day when they are not in a physical therapy session.
Greater Independence
As patients improve their balance, it becomes easier to perform tasks unassisted. Getting dressed, tying shoes and other daily tasks become easier so patients have more independence than when the stroke initially occurred. Many patients will live with the side effects of a stroke for the rest of their lives, so it's important to become as independent as possible.
Better Attitude
A natural companion to greater independence achieved through yoga therapy is a better attitude toward life and recovery. A stroke can have huge emotional effects on patients, as there lives are forever changed. Suddenly, they are unable to do the most ordinary of tasks unassisted. As mobility returns, so does confidence and motivation to press on. The meditative portion of a yoga routine teaches patients healthy ways to release negative emotions while replacing them with positive thoughts. Breathing techniques can allow patients to live in the moment and be grateful for every small gift each day brings.
Long-Term Benefits
Depending on the severity of the stroke, many patients visit a physical or occupational therapist for a designated period of time. After that, the patient must decide whether they need to hire in-home care or enlist friends and family to help. Yoga can be an on-going therapy that will continue to produce results over time. Once patients know the asanas they can continue to do them on a daily basis, continually improving balance, agility, strength, stamina and attitude.
Specialist Yoga Teacher Training
Some patients are looking for teachers with specialized Yoga certification. With this in mind, specific Yoga instructor training for teaching therapeutic Yogic exercises to patients is a wise decision for the teacher who wants to work with diversified students.
© Copyright 2006 - Aura Wellness Center - Publications Division
Improved Balance
Asanas improve balance, even when they are modified to accommodate patients who cannot walk, stand or even sit on their own. Patients can use a number of different props when working with a trained yoga therapist or yoga instructor. Over time, patients can learn which poses are most beneficial for them. They can then employ the postures during other times of the day when they are not in a physical therapy session.
Greater Independence
As patients improve their balance, it becomes easier to perform tasks unassisted. Getting dressed, tying shoes and other daily tasks become easier so patients have more independence than when the stroke initially occurred. Many patients will live with the side effects of a stroke for the rest of their lives, so it's important to become as independent as possible.
Better Attitude
A natural companion to greater independence achieved through yoga therapy is a better attitude toward life and recovery. A stroke can have huge emotional effects on patients, as there lives are forever changed. Suddenly, they are unable to do the most ordinary of tasks unassisted. As mobility returns, so does confidence and motivation to press on. The meditative portion of a yoga routine teaches patients healthy ways to release negative emotions while replacing them with positive thoughts. Breathing techniques can allow patients to live in the moment and be grateful for every small gift each day brings.
Long-Term Benefits
Depending on the severity of the stroke, many patients visit a physical or occupational therapist for a designated period of time. After that, the patient must decide whether they need to hire in-home care or enlist friends and family to help. Yoga can be an on-going therapy that will continue to produce results over time. Once patients know the asanas they can continue to do them on a daily basis, continually improving balance, agility, strength, stamina and attitude.
Specialist Yoga Teacher Training
Some patients are looking for teachers with specialized Yoga certification. With this in mind, specific Yoga instructor training for teaching therapeutic Yogic exercises to patients is a wise decision for the teacher who wants to work with diversified students.
© Copyright 2006 - Aura Wellness Center - Publications Division
Faye Martins, is a Yoga teacher and a graduate of the Yoga
teacher training program at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. To
receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about
Yoga, please visit: http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/
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