Exploring the Connection Between Yoga Therapy and Mental Health in Appleton, WI
The iconic spiritual teacher and yogi B.K.S. Iyengar famously said, “Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” Bringing this beautiful “music” back into one’s life is what yoga therapy is all about.
One of the spiritual texts that grounds all yoga practice is known as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This text contains 196 sutras (statements) that one can both practice yoga and live their lives by. The first sutra is quite apt in both the world of yoga and recovery. It goes, “Atha yoga anushasanam,” which simply translates to “Now is the time to start yoga.”
The most important part of yoga is the beginning because nothing can exist if that first action isn’t taken. This is also true with mental health recovery – one must take that first step and reach out for help. Then, the miracle of recovery can occur.
At Wisconsin Wellness, we offer yoga therapy as a part of our mental health services, combining the body and mind for a whole-person approach to healing.
What Is Yoga Therapy?
Yoga therapy is very much what its moniker sounds like. It is the use of yoga in a therapeutic and/or psychotherapeutic setting. So then, what exactly is yoga, especially since it has become such a “buzz” topic in the last few years?
According to the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, “Yoga originated in India thousands of years ago as a philosophical or spiritual discipline to deliver practitioners from suffering, or dis-ease (duhkha). The practice of yoga unifies the mind and body through coordinated breathing (pranayama), movement (asana), and meditation (dhyana), which has been known to promote well-being and reduce stress. Stress has been defined as the disruption of a person’s ‘biological, psychological and social dimensions’ as a result of environmental challenges or perceived threat.”
Yoga therapy integrates the practice of yoga with psychotherapy to integrate the traditional benefits of yoga with the modern understanding of neuroscience and biological functions. It also greatly focuses on how one interacts with their negative cognitions (thoughts) and emotions (feelings) in order to amend these negative interactions to find a sense of balance and inner peace.
Mental Health and Yoga Therapy
Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years. Originally, it began as solely a religious and/or spiritual practice, but it has since moved into the realm of mental health (and substance use disorder) recovery.
Many studies now show the efficacy of yoga for complications of mental health. According to the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, [S]tudies have provided hints as to the possible mechanisms of action of yoga in patient populations. Many of these outcomes, especially those relating to stress and mood, are influencing key risk factors or contributors to the severity of a wide variety of disorders and these are likely to account for a significant part of yoga’s therapeutic benefit. However, it is also believed that specific yoga practices may be of particular efficacy for specific disorders, e.g., the improvement in negative rumination in anxiety and depressive disorders with the practice of meditation.”
Yoga therapy specifically integrates the tools of psychotherapy to get past the psychological resistance that often arises in people who balk at “traditional” talk therapies. It also brings about psychological resilience because it offers a program that centralizes growth. With every yoga therapeutic practice, an individual has a chance to further grow their cognitive and emotional capabilities and strengths. Yoga therapy often bolsters mental health with little effort of the individual. This is because yoga has inherent “sattva” (goodness, purity) that is often absorbed merely by engaging with the process.
The Benefits of Yoga Therapy
The second sutra of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali goes “Yogas citta vrtti nirodhah” This roughly translates to “yoga as the quieting of the mind.” Quieting the mind is the foundation by which all of the benefits of yoga therapy can be built.
Physical Benefits of Yoga
The benefits of yoga therapy are vast and varied. According to the International Journal of Yoga (IJOY), “Yoga therapy involves instruction in yogic practices and teachings to prevent reduce or alleviate structural, physiological, emotional and spiritual pain, suffering or limitations. Yogic practices enhance muscular strength and body flexibility, promote and improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, promote recovery from and treatment of addiction, reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.” It should also be noted that many of the benefits of yoga come from the meditation component.
Mental Benefits of Yoga
The renowned Buddhist monk and spiritual teacher Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Meditation can help us embrace our worries, our fear, our anger; and that is very healing. We let our own natural capacity of healing do the work.” This “natural capacity” brings with it essential mental health recovery benefits.
There is a vast array of benefits that come from the meditation component of yoga therapy. According to the International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda (AYU), “Research has confirmed a myriad of health benefits associated with the practice of meditation. These include stress reduction, decreased anxiety, decreased depression, reduction in pain (both physical and psychological), improved memory, and increased efficiency. Physiological benefits include reduced blood pressure, heart rate, lactate, cortisol, and epinephrine; decreased metabolism, breathing pattern, oxygen utilization, and carbon dioxide elimination; and increased melatonin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), skin resistance, and relative blood flow to the brain.”
Yoga Therapist Versus Yoga Instructor: What’s the Difference?
It is important to understand that the world of yoga is wide, and not all yoga is created equal. This is especially true when it comes to yoga therapy.
Training & Certification
A yoga instructor will have gone through teacher training, such as hatha yoga teacher training (at least a 200-hour program), and may even be a member of the Yoga Alliance, but this does not make them qualified to be a yoga therapist. Yoga therapists are going to have to have specific certifications.
This may include clinical certifications and medical degrees. However, it will certainly include a certification (generally an 800-hour minimum certification) from an accredited institution. Some examples of these institutions are the International Association of Yoga Therapists and the Maryland University of Integrative Health.
Accountability & Goal Setting
Rather than merely focusing on the physical aspects of a yoga practice, a yoga therapist is going to take a full assessment and intake of a client to determine the best recovery plan for them. Essentially, the process is much more involved and it includes accountability and goal-setting for long-term recovery.
Yoga Therapy: Traditional Wisdom and Contemporary Neuroscience
B.K.S. Iyengar also said, “Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind, and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.” This is a statement safely settled in the Eastern philosophies of yoga. Of course, yoga therapy also includes the Western world of medicine.
Reduced Stress
The effects of yoga therapy are now becoming better understood in relation to neuroscience and cognitive psychotherapy. According to the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, “Mind-body therapies, including yoga therapy, are proposed to benefit health and well-being through an integration of top-down and bottom-up processes facilitating bidirectional communication between the brain and body. Top-down processes, such as the regulation of attention and setting of intention, have been shown to decrease psychological stress as well as hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) and sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity, and in turn, modulate immune function and inflammation.”
Improved Immune Functioning & Emotional Resiliency
Yoga therapy has also been shown to help with immune functioning and emotional resiliency. These benefits can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with an anxiety disorder or complications with their nervous system. Ultimately, yoga therapy helps with quality of life via its Eastern philosophies and Western medical intervention.
Holistic Healing With Wisconsin Wellness
Thich Nhat Hanh explained that “Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now, we are okay. Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously.” This is, in essence, what yoga therapy offers – a sense of peace in the present moment.
Comprehensive Recovery with Yoga
Here at Wisconsin Wellness, we know the benefits that yoga can bring to an individual looking to recover from complications of mental health. We also know that the benefits of yoga are also compounded when yoga is blended into a comprehensive recovery plan that also utilizes therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems (IFS), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy (just to name a few).
Individualized Yoga Therapy
At Wisconsin Wellness, we offer an individualized approach to recovery from start to finish. This includes comprehensive assessments, psychotherapies, experiential therapies, holistic healing methods, and post-treatment alumni support services.
Yoga therapy may be the exact modality that is right for you and your recovery. All you have to remember is the first sutra of Patanjali; “Atha yoga anushasanam.” Now it is time for yoga, and now it is time for recovery – now it is time to live the life you always wanted but never thought possible.
At Wisconsin Wellness, we know the importance of whole mind-body healing. This includes our offering of yoga therapy for mental health recovery. For more information about the benefits of yoga therapy and how it can help heal you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, please reach out to us today at (920) 404-2100.
Start Your Journey With Us in Appleton, WI
Please contact our office with any specific questions you may have or to schedule an appointment.
Take the first step towards improved mental health and overall well-being by contacting Wisconsin Wellness for yoga therapy. You’ll find a supportive environment where you can explore the mind-body connection and develop coping strategies for life’s challenges. Our yoga therapy sessions are tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re seeking relief from physical discomfort or looking to enhance your mental health.
Reach out today to schedule an initial consultation and learn how yoga therapy can complement your existing health care routine. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your goals and concerns with our experienced team, who will create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal wellness.
Don’t let pain or anxiety hold you back any longer. Contact Wisconsin Wellness now to embark on your journey towards improved physical and mental health through the transformative power of yoga therapy.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga Therapy & Mental Health
How does yoga contribute to improving mental health?
Yoga offers a multifaceted approach to mental health, combining physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of mental disorders such as major depressive disorder. Research has shown that yoga as exercise can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing cortisol levels, which are linked to chronic stress. Regular practice enhances mood, attention, and overall cognition, making it an effective alternative medicine for managing mental health conditions.
Can yoga help manage anxiety and depression?
Yes, yoga is a well-documented intervention for managing anxiety and depression. Through the combination of physical activity, controlled breathing, and mindfulness, yoga can influence the brain’s neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a critical role in mood regulation. Studies suggest that yoga’s efficacy in treating anxiety and depression may rival that of traditional pharmacology, making it a valuable complementary therapy for patients looking to reduce reliance on medication.
What types of yoga are best for mental health?
Different styles of yoga can be tailored to specific mental health needs. Hatha yoga, known for its gentle and slow-paced nature, is excellent for beginners and those seeking to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance relaxation. Kundalini yoga, which focuses on breathwork, meditation, and spiritual practice, can be particularly effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety and fostering a sense of inner peace. Iyengar yoga, with its emphasis on alignment and precision, may help individuals with chronic pain or physical limitations.
How does yoga therapy integrate with traditional psychotherapy?
Yoga therapy can complement traditional psychotherapy by addressing both the physical and mental aspects of well-being. While psychotherapy focuses on understanding and changing thought patterns, yoga therapy adds a somatic element that can help patients manage physical symptoms of stress and anxiety. For example, pranayama (breath control) techniques can be used as relaxation techniques during therapy sessions, aiding in stress management and enhancing the therapeutic process.
Is yoga safe for individuals with chronic pain or physical limitations?
Yoga is generally safe for individuals with chronic pain or physical limitations when guided by a qualified yoga teacher. Specific modifications and the use of props can make yoga accessible to those with conditions like low back pain, arthritis, or hypertension. In fact, yoga has been shown to improve physical fitness, increase range of motion, and alleviate pain, making it a valuable component of a comprehensive pain management plan. However, it is essential to consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.
How does yoga influence the nervous system?
Yoga has a profound impact on the nervous system, particularly through the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Practices such as deep breathing and guided imagery activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces the body’s stress response. Over time, this can lead to lowered blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and improved overall mental state. The regular practice of yoga also enhances the body’s ability to manage chronic stress and anxiety by improving the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Can yoga be used as a treatment for substance abuse and addiction?
Yes, yoga is increasingly recognized as a supportive treatment for substance use disorders. The mindfulness and breathwork aspects of yoga can help individuals manage cravings, reduce anxiety, and improve mood, which are crucial for preventing relapse. Additionally, yoga promotes self-awareness and emotional regulation, which are essential skills for individuals in recovery. Integrating yoga into addiction treatment programs can enhance the efficacy of traditional methods and contribute to long-term recovery.
What is the role of yoga in improving sleep and overall quality of life?
Yoga can significantly improve sleep quality and overall quality of life by promoting relaxation and reducing the physiological effects of stress. Techniques such as yoga nidra (a form of guided relaxation) and regular practice of asanas can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, reduce insomnia, and improve sleep duration. By enhancing mental and physical health, yoga contributes to a more balanced lifestyle, increasing resilience against daily stressors and improving overall well-being.
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