What is Yoga Therapy?

Stuck in your head? Over thinking? Yoga therapy is a great way to get out of your head and into your body. In the language of Yoga, Sanskrit, yoga literally means connection, to link, to yoke — connecting body and mind, ultimately connecting you to your best self.

Yoga therapy is a transformative practice that draws on the wisdom of the body, the vehicle for change. During a Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy experience, healing begins from the inside out, beginning with body awareness, noticing sensations, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and images. Instead of trying to mentally understand or change your experience, you will be encouraged to feel your way. In the body, you will find — beneath a constant stream of sensations, feelings, and thoughts — an inner knowing, a wisdom body, and insight into your true self. Your yoga practice is tailored for you and your body, flowing through breath and gentle movement, playing the edge, meditation, insight and action.

Healing is a journey and not a final destination. Healing begins with awareness, the first step in the process of change. Awareness of sensations of tightness or openness, warmth or coolness, heaviness, or lightness in the body.    Perhaps pain or discomfort.  Awareness of thoughts, images and emotions. Allowing whatever is to be - being you - just as you are. Awareness of what your body needs: is your body hungry, tired, sore, etc.?   Awareness of your relationship with your body: how does it feel to be in your body?  To live in your body?   With awareness comes acceptance, change, and recognizing your truth — leading to powerful healing and transformation. It is through your body that you will change everything in your life that you would like to change. 

What You Need to Get Started

There are no needs or shoulds in yoga therapy. Only a willingness to be open to the possibilities.  One hour of private time and space whether you participate in person or online. Wear loose fitting clothing that allows you to move freely.  If practicing online in your own space, have access to a yoga mat and any props, including blankets, pillows, or cushions to support your body. If working together in my studio, I have yoga mats and a variety of props available. This arrangement allows me to practice active, reflective listening and coaching to bring your breath and awareness into your body, noticing what is happening in the present moment.

What To Expect

To begin, let’s schedule an intake and assess your body’s mobility and flexibility. Following intake, I will guide you through a series of physical movements and periods of stillness. I will encourage you to bring breath and awareness into the body to notice what is happening now, including physical sensations, feelings, images, thoughts, or emotions, connecting to deeper layers of your self. You will explore your edge in various postures and notice sensation in the present moment. Following a brief meditation, you’ll be guided to listen for insight, and finally to integrate your insight into action.