Therapeutic yoga is the philosophy, science, and art of adapting classical yoga techniques to contemporary situations in order to treat physical, mental, and emotional ailments. Depending on the individual(s) needs and personal challenges, different tools and techniques will be used to target the origin of restriction and facilitate the release of tension in the body-mind. The re-balancing of energy, and/or the strengthening of muscles may also be exercised. During a class or private session you may be introduced to guided meditation, visualization, myofascial release, breath exercises, different yoga postures, somatic exercises, etc.
A catered therapeutic practice will increase body-mind awareness and positively influence lifestyle and behavioral habits. Modern research proves that there are many emotional and physical benefits of yoga for specific ailments. It’s more and more common today that western doctors are prescribing yoga therapy and traditional yoga classes as supplemental treatment for their patients. They’re starting to articulate that the same surgery, medicine or quick-fix-pill is not necessary nor successful for everyone, even if you do embody the same symptoms. We are all unique individuals with VERY different bodymind mappings, so perhaps it’s now imperative to explore a healing modality that offers collective body, mind and spiritual restoration.
One foundation of my yoga therapy training and teaching is based on the Chakra system. The 7 main energy centers within our subtle body have great effect on the anatomical body and its functioning. They work together to regulate and optimize the energy we take in and put out. Activities and imbalances in these energy centers can influence the nervous system, our thoughts and behavior, physical ailments and disease.
I was fortuitously introduced to yoga in 2003. Many years later I discovered it to be a multi-dimensional healing channel that guided me through various depths of anxiety and depression. It also helped me manage pressures construed by a materialistic, competitive culture and allowed me to define for myself what “success” truly means. Through my practice I’ve learned personal resistance and acceptance, and that my own healing will grow in strides through teaching and continual learning. Just like the ancient yogis, I believe we co-exist to exchange positive energy with each other (healing and love), and that everything we need for health and happiness is already present in our system. The objective of yoga is to remove the obstacles (emotional, physical, mental) that impede the natural functioning of our system. Therapeutic yoga will target your personal obstacles so that you can return to your natural state of wholeness, prosperity, and peace.Michelle Latorre
RYT 500 | Yoga Therapist