Chair Yoga: Making Yoga Accessible to All
This article details the growing popularity of chair yoga and its benefits, notably for those who might find traditional yoga inaccessible. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
What is Chair Yoga?
Adaptive Practice: Chair yoga is a modified form of yoga designed to be accessible to people with limited mobility, physical limitations, or those who simply prefer a gentler approach.
No Required Poses: unlike traditional yoga, there are no ”must-do” poses. The practice is adapted to each individual’s capabilities and limitations.
specialized Chairs: Classes utilize reinforced plastic chairs with back support (often with a pillow added) for stability and comfort. Metal chairs are avoided as they can be slippery.
Benefits of Chair Yoga:
holistic Health: Offers the same physical, mental, and emotional benefits as traditional yoga – muscle toning, elongation, balance, stability, stress reduction, improved concentration, and emotional regulation.
Increased Accessibility: Brings the benefits of yoga to individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to physical limitations.
Conscious Movement & Breathwork: Emphasizes mindful movement and utilizing breath as a tool for managing emotions.
How a Typical class works:
Duration: Classes typically last an hour.
Structure:
Brief relaxation and breathing exercises.
“Awareness” exercises to connect with the body.
“Preasanas” – dynamic joint movements.
Poses performed standing (using the wall or chair for support), and seated.
Final relaxation with head and neck support.
History & Origins:
Lakshmi Voelker: chair yoga was created in 1982 by American yoga instructor Lakshmi Voelker as an adaptive yoga form.
Vinyasa Yogam Influence: the method described in the article is rooted in the therapeutic yoga of the integral method of Vinyasa yogam, developed by Miriam Vieyto.
Class Variation:
Tailored to Needs: Classes are adjusted based on the age and physical abilities of participants.
Progression: Sessions can range from gentle to more advanced, depending on how the chairs are utilized.
Common Elements: Typically include joint warm-ups, tension-release exercises, gentle movements (lateralities, torsions, strength work), and guided relaxation with a focus on breathwork.
the article highlights chair yoga as a valuable and inclusive practice that makes the benefits of yoga available to a wider range of people.
