Yoga Therapy

Yoga therapy is the application of yogic methods and practices to harmonize physical and mental health with the aim of promoting self-care and encouraging holistic well-being. Whilst the practice of yoga in general is to cultivate the body and mind and hence has the potential for therapeutic effects, in yoga therapy, specific yoga practices are put together based on one's suitability and conditions to help alleviate or improve mental and physical ailments. 

It also includes the application of meditation, textual study, spiritual or psychological counseling, chanting, imagery, prayer, and rituals to meet the needs of participant.

Holistic Model of Human Being

Yoga therapy is based on the ancient Panchakosha model (five sheaths) from the Taittiriya Upanishad as shown below.

2. Assessment and Diagnosis Process

• Client intake: Medical history, lifestyle, stress levels, emotional state.

• Functional assessment: Posture, movement, breath patterns, stress responses.

• Goal setting: Collaborative, realistic, health-related goals.

3. Personalized Therapeutic Planning

• Asanas (postures) are modified to individual limitations.

• Pranayama (breathwork) to regulate the autonomic nervous system.

• Relaxation & Meditation to reduce stress and enhance neuroplasticity.

• Deep meditation systems like Dharana and Ajapa

• Lifestyle & Behavioral guidance based on yogic principles (like Ahimsa, Satya).

Each plan is individualized, progressive, and goal-oriented, often with measurable outcomes.

4. Mechanisms of Action (Scientific View)

• Neuromuscular: Improves strength, flexibility, balance.

• Neuroendocrine: Modulates stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline).

• Autonomic nervous system regulation: Shifts from sympathetic (fight/flight) to parasympathetic (rest/digest).

• Psychoneuroimmunological: Reduces inflammation, improves immune function.

• Cognitive-emotional regulation: Enhances mood, attention, and resilience.