Yoga Therapy - a healing journey

Yoga when practiced with a therapeutic intention in the form of Yoga Therapy,
can play a vital role in preventing and curing physical and mental ailments.

The applications of Yoga Therapy range from maintaining health, managing a condition,
reducing symptoms, restoring balance, increasing vitality, improving attitude, to recovering
from an illness.

The Yoga practices involve the movement of vital forces (energy) in the system. Every illness
involves a certain level of energy blockage leading to internal imbalances. This is usually
caused by emotional stress. Yoga releases these blockages by promoting the flow of energy
(prana) to restore the internal balance. Yoga also builds strength and flexibility that we need
for our physical well being. Breathing practices work to slow down the breath and reducing
the activity in the mind, hence reducing your stress level and bringing emotional well being.

Common ailments for Yoga Therapy include: Diabetes, Arthritis, Hypertension, Asthma,
Obesity, Back Pain, Gastro-Intestinal Disorders, Menstrual Disorders, AIDS and Cancer.

My name is Anna Bervander and I have a Post Graduate Diploma in Yoga Therapy (PGDYT)
from Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA) Yoga University. This
program focuses on the usefulness of Yoga for dealing with psychosomatic ailments and
pshychatric disorders as an effective adjunct to medical management and also for long term
rehabilitation.

The Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA) system is an integrated
approach to Yoga Therapy. It is based on yoga techniques and practices including a wide
range of mind/body practices designed specifically for each ailment, from postural and
breathing practices to deep relaxation and kriyas (cleansing of internal organs). All practices
are modified to suit each individual.

Yoga with a therapeutic intention not only helps individuals facing health challenges but
is also suitable for children. The practices of Yoga not only help to keep the young body
strong and flexible, internal stimulation of glands also take place, balancing any hormonal
imbalances and yoga also incorporate mental activities and disciplines. This helps to develop
attention, concentration, and to stimulate the child`s creative abilities.