Yoga Benefits and Cautions: Notes from the TCA Conference

Bright and early a few days ago, I had the fantastic opportunity to teach a workshop about yoga to counselors from across our state at the Texas Counseling Association annual conference in Dallas. It was a great time! I shared a presentation, then led the group through a yoga practice so they could experience it for themselves. We ended our morning circling up for discussion.

In the session, we talked about the ancient roots and philosophy of yoga, the different types of yoga classes found in many communities today, and how specific approaches have been developed to use yoga for trauma recovery and mental health. You can learn more about all of these ideas in the complete Powerpoint presentation.

Here are a few key slides that may be very helpful when considering starting a yoga practice. First, a description of some of the terms used to describe types of classes.​

Then some findings of researchers. There's a lot of data that points to the benefits of yoga.

But yoga is not to be used without caution. Here's my advice for choosing the right yoga class:

1. ​Know what type of class you are best suited for, and seek that out. Know the class descriptions above and search for those in your community. If you can't find a class, try yogaglo.com for online streaming.
2. If you are a trauma survivor, be especially selective about your yoga class. Choose a class that is "trauma-sensitive" if you are just beginning to process your traumatic experiences. Know that some teachers provide "physical assists" or adjustments that involve them touching you. If you do not want to be touched, communicate that to your teacher prior to class.
3. Hot yoga (100 degrees +) can be counter-productive if you are overwhelmed by heat or have medical conditions. You should have an established practice of good hydration before you attend hot yoga classes. As an alternative, many vinyasa classes offer a warm room (85 degrees +).
4. Look for teachers that offer modifications of difficult poses and encourage acceptance of your body as it is today.
   

What to know before you go:

1. ​Yoga is usually practiced barefoot.
2. It's best to practice on a mostly empty stomach. You will be more comfortable with heat, vigorous sequencing, or twisting if you haven't just eaten a meal.
3. Some studios will have mats to borrow, or you can bring your own. For sweaty classes, a towel placed over your mat keeps you from slipping. You can use a towel from home, or there are special ones made to go on top of yoga mats.
4. Most studios have a place for your belongings outside of the yoga room. They are usually secured by the teacher locking the outside door before class begins.
5. Studios have differing policies about talking inside the yoga room. Some observe silence and others welcome chatting before class.​

​Here's to finding the best yoga experience to reap the benefits of this ancient practice!