Does your body ache?

Tracy Roberge RYT500 • March 7, 2019

Does your body ache? Your joints feel like they just don't want to move, or you're afraid to move them because of pain? If so you may be experiencing arthritis pain and yes, yoga can help!

So what is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term that describes inflammation of the joints, which can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are many kinds of arthritis but he two most common are osteoarthritis (age-related) and rheumatoid ( autoimmune disease which can affect other organs in the body). Regardless of the type, or if you are even just moving a bit slower than you'd like, yoga provides a low impact avenue to get you on the path to well-being and feeling good.

So how does yoga help?

Most arthritic joints benefit from regular, low-impact exercise, which can decrease pain and improve mobility. Yoga is an ideal choice since in addition to its physical benefits it emphasizes working with your body as it presents itself on any given day without judgment. Yoga also reduces stress, fosters mental calmness, and teaches students coping techniques, such as breathing exercises, which may help them manage pain and depression.

How to start a yoga practice if you have arthritis?

It can be a bit scary trying something you've never done before, or that fear of moving the wrong way when you're already in pain can also be daunting. Consult with your doctor first to make sure you are ready to begin exploring your body. And people need to practice mindfully, of course, so it is not advisable to start yoga on your own, but rather consult with a yoga therapist for a private consultation designed specifically for you, or specialty workshop or class aligned with the diagnosis in mind. You need to find a yoga therapist who is knowledgeable enough to offer you modifications to poses and situations when necessary.

With the above in mind, The Yoga Studio of Calgary South is presenting a Yoga For Arthritis Workshop on Saturday, April 13 from 2:00PM-5:00PM by Registered Yoga Therapist RYT500 Tracy Roberge. A registered 6 week course series is offered after the workshop to help you establish a pattern and routine in connecting with you. For more information or to register contact The Yoga Studio of Calgary South at 403-454-8645 or www.theyogastudiocalgary.com

About the Author:

Tracy Roberge is a Registered Yoga Therapist RYT500, Member IYTA International Yoga Therapists Association, Relax & Renew certified, Chair Yoga Teacher. Tracy has also trained with Calgary Rheumatologist Dr. Steven Edworthy, and Kim KcNeil BSc. RYT and is certified in advanced CPR (Level C), AED and First Aid. Having recovered from injuries herself, Tracy consults and teaches with a sensitivity and a keen understanding of individual needs. Her adjustments are gentle and precise, helping her students achieve the maximum benefit from their yoga practice, improving mobility and reducing pain. Tracy urges clients to attune to their body's messages and incorporate what they learn into their daily lives. As a secondary healing modality, Tracy introduces Reiki when needed into her sessions.

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