special needs yogaWhat Is Special Needs Yoga?

Special needs yoga is one of the fastest-growing and exciting new areas of yoga and yoga teacher training (ytt). It is using yoga specifically to deal with specific conditions like Asperger’s, autism, learning disabilities, and other neurologically based disabilities. In this blog, we will talk about what it is, its benefits, and its future.

What Is It?

In short, special needs yoga is a type of yoga  adapted for specific special needs. This is to help the specific needs and abilities of individuals. They are designed to help improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being and enhance the overall quality of life for those with special needs.

Special needs yoga can be customized for people with a wide range of conditions, this includes autism, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Asperger’s Down syndrome. Techniques used will vary from condition to condition, but typically all include modified poses, breathing (pranayama),relaxation techniques and meditation.

special needs yoga teacher and studentTraining To Be Special Needs Instructor

Special needs teachers are trained to work with people with disabilities and other special needs. 

They may have expertise in different areas, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, special education, or rehabilitation. They are trained to make adaptations to traditional yoga practices to accommodate the needs of their students, and to create a safe and comfortable environment for them to practice in.

Benefits

The benefits of special needs yoga can be numerous, including improved flexibility, balance, strength, and coordination. It can also help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve the overall mood and self-esteem of individuals with special needs. 

For individuals with physical disabilities, it can help reduce pain and increase mobility. For individuals with cognitive or emotional challenges, it can help improve focus, concentration, and emotional regulation.

special needs class with studentsIn Conclusion

Again, special needs yoga is a type of yoga practice that is adapted to the needs and abilities of individuals. 

It is designed to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. The instructors are trained to make modifications and adaptations to traditional yoga practices to accommodate the needs of their students, and to create a safe and comfortable environment for them to practice in.