YOGA
Is It Right For Me?
What is yoga?
The word yoga means union, and the purpose of yoga is to unite the body and the mind. It is an ancient Indian practice with eight components, one of which is Hatha yoga. There are several styles of Hatha yoga, including Iyengar (Alignment), Kundalini, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Anusara. They all involve the physical practice of poses (postures) called asanas. At Connect Physical Therapy, we offer classes in the Alignment style. This style meshes with physical therapy principles and is very safe.
What is Alignment yoga?
It is an asana practice focusing on proper posture and precise positioning. Poses are often broken down into smaller pieces, and there is a gradual progression into the full pose. Props are used, and many options are given, so that each student can modify the pose as needed for their own circumstances. Poses are held for gradually increasing periods of time to improve strength and endurance. Classes are usually divided into increasing levels of difficulty, from very gentle to advanced. A series of several classes offered each term allows a progression working towards a specific pose or poses. Classes at Connect are taught by a physical therapist who has been teaching yoga for over 18 years.
What is Vinassa Yoga?
Vinyasa, or Flow yoga, is a practice of linking your breath and your movements to settle your nervous system while building strength, stability, and space in your body. You will be offered alignment cues to help keep you on track and opportunities to challenge your body and mind with flowing movements, holds in postures to build strength, and time to play with balance. The end of class will give you time to further slow down and enjoy a few stretches before heading off to your day. Our Vinyasa classes are a wonderful opportunity for mindfulness and presence, and will leave you feeling grounded, more open, and relaxed in your body. We will use props and offer modifications to make these classes accessible and fun.
DeeAnn Dougherty, PT, CMPT
DeeAnn has personally practiced yoga for over 30 years and has taught alignment-based yoga for over 20 years. She was certified in Dr Loren Fishman's Method of Yoga for Osteoporosis in 2020.
Our team is passionate about helping you on your health journey to improve your lifestyle.
Take one of our vinyasa and/or alignment yoga classes today to feel more grounded, open, and relaxed!
Jessica Day, 500 E-RYT
As a yoga teacher, it is my true passion to help others feel more at home in their bodies and in the experience of being human. You can expect to find an emphasis on mindful movement and breath in my classes.
Can anyone do yoga?
Yes. Yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, activity level, or physical condition. Poses can be modified using chairs, bolsters, blocks, belts, and other props to provide support, ensuring that students do not have to attempt positions for which they are not yet ready. If you are recovering from an injury or have found previous yoga classes too difficult, alignment yoga is a good choice. Yoga can fit into anyone's life.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Cardiovascular:
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Decreased blood pressure
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Decreased cholesterol
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Lower resting heart rate
Mental Health:
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Decreased depression
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Improved stress management and relaxation
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Improved concentration and confidence
Breathing:
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Better control of asthma
Diabetes:
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Better control of blood sugar
Musculoskeletal:
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Increased flexibility, strength, and endurance
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Improved balance and body awareness
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Improved bone health (osteoporosis)
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Decreased neck and back pain
Why go to a class?
There are yoga videos and books galore, but nothing compares to being in a class with a teacher to give you feedback and help you avoid injury. We all have imbalances in our bodies, from the natural asymmetry of our daily activities to our recreational and even competitive pursuits. A trained and experienced teacher will recognize these and be able to assist students with addressing them. All props are provided, except mats. Please bring your own mat. To participate in a class at Connect PT, we do require that students be able to get up and down unassisted from the floor. If that is not possible for you, we can arrange individualized instruction that would allow you to try yoga.