Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation practices to promote physical and mental well-being. For individuals with brain injuries, yoga can be an effective way to improve physical and cognitive function while also reducing stress and anxiety.
Research has shown that practicing yoga can lead to improvements in balance, flexibility, and strength, which can be especially helpful for those with brain injuries who may have experienced physical impairments. In addition, yoga has been found to have a positive impact on the nervous system, helping to regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing.
Studies have also found that yoga can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yoga has been found to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels and can also improve cognitive function, including memory and attention.
One organization that focuses on the benefits of yoga for those with brain injuries is LoveYourBrain. LoveYourBrain is a non-profit organization that offers yoga and meditation programs designed specifically for individuals with brain injuries and their caregivers.
Overall, yoga is a safe and effective form of exercise for individuals with brain injuries, with a range of physical and mental benefits. If you're interested in exploring yoga as a form of therapy, consider consulting with a healthcare professional and looking into resources offered by organizations like LoveYourBrain.
Different types of yoga:
Hatha Yoga - focuses on physical postures and breathing exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
Vinyasa Yoga - links breath with movement and focuses on flowing through a series of postures.
Ashtanga Yoga - follows a set sequence of postures and is physically demanding.
Kundalini Yoga - emphasizes breath work, meditation, and chanting to activate energy and release tension.
Iyengar Yoga - focuses on alignment and precision in postures, often using props like blocks and straps.
Restorative Yoga - uses props to support the body in passive postures for extended periods of time to promote deep relaxation.
Here are some free resources:
Yoga with Adriene - offers a wide range of yoga classes for all levels, including a specific "Yoga for Healing" series.
Do Yoga With Me - offers a variety of free yoga classes for all levels, styles, and durations.
Yoga Journal - offers a range of free online yoga classes, as well as articles and resources on yoga and wellness.
LoveYourBrain - offers free yoga classes specifically designed for individuals with brain injury, as well as resources and support for their caregivers.
Studies:
Patient Reviews
I have heard some of the best neurologists in the world speak at conferences around the US. Meditation and yoga are scientifically proven to open up new pathways in the brain. I practice yoga at least 5 days a week. Meditation is helpful for all. There are many apps with guided meditations: Head Space and Insight Timer are my go to apps. These two things have helped me the most in my recovery. Yoga changed my life and health. I recommend a Vinyasa flow not Bikram.
Yoga has been instrumental in my recovery. It has helped my vestibular issues, stress and anxiety, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain (I sustained whiplash with my concussion, too). The candlelight stretch and relaxation yoga class at my neighborhood Oxygen Yoga Studio is my happy place. I have had a consistent headache since my concussion and deal with debilitating migraines four to five times a week. Their infrared sauna room is one of the only places/things that provides me with some relief. They have a bunch of studios across Canada and newcomers can buy a weekly-unlimited pass for only $10. You can also check out Love Your Brain Yoga. Free six week programs are offered to brain injury survivors and their caregivers. This is a great and affordable way to experience yoga and meditation. Caveat: Talk to your doctors before yoga. Start small with a relaxation yoga class and talk to the yoga instructor before class, so she will know to give you modifications.