Adaptive Yoga Therapist
Modified yoga designed for people with neurological conditions
The basics
What is an adaptive yoga therapist?
An adaptive yoga therapist isn't teaching you standard yoga poses. They specialise in modifying yoga practice for people whose bodies have been affected by neurological conditions like stroke, MS, Parkinson's, spinal cord injury, or brain injury. This is therapeutic movement work with a neurological focus, using the principles of yoga - breath, gentle movement, and body awareness - to help your nervous system regulate itself.
After a neurological injury, your nervous system may feel dysregulated - you might experience fatigue, spasticity, tight muscles, mood changes, or a sense of disconnection from your body. An adaptive yoga therapist uses breath work (pranayama), gentle postures (often seated or supported by props), and mindful movement to calm your nervous system, reduce muscle tension, and rebuild your sense of control and safety in your body. They understand how to work with weakness, spasticity, balance issues, and pain - everything is adapted to your specific needs and capabilities.
Sessions focus on what your body can do right now, not what it "should" do. Props like chairs, blocks, blankets, and walls become your support system. The goal is to create a practice that feels accessible, restorative, and empowering - something you can do consistently to support your nervous system regulation, reduce fatigue, and improve your sense of wellbeing alongside your other therapies.
Who benefits
Who might benefit from seeing an adaptive yoga therapist?
If you struggle with fatigue, spasticity, mood changes, balance issues, or simply want to reconnect with your body in a safe and gentle way, adaptive yoga can help. It's particularly valuable if you're looking for something you can do regularly to support your own nervous system regulation between specialist appointments. Adaptive yoga works beautifully alongside physio, OT, and other rehabilitation therapies. It's also beneficial for people living with dementia and children with neurological conditions.
What to expect
What happens in a session?
Check-in & Breathing
Your therapist will ask how you're feeling physically and emotionally today. You'll start with breath work - slow, supported breathing to help calm your nervous system before moving into any physical practice.
Gentle Movement with Props
You'll move through adapted poses - often seated in a chair, supported by pillows, or using blocks and walls. Every movement is about what feels safe and manageable for your body right now. Your therapist guides you, watching for spasticity, balance issues, or fatigue.
Mindfulness & Body Awareness
You'll practice noticing sensations in your body without judgment - this helps rebuild the nervous system connection between your brain and body. This might include gentle stretches, supported balance work, or just sitting with awareness of your breath.
Relaxation & Integration
Sessions typically end with a grounding or relaxation phase - supported lying down, or a guided meditation. Your therapist may suggest things you can do at home to extend the benefits of the session.
Finding support
How do I find an adaptive yoga therapist?
Look for yoga teachers or therapists who have specific training in adaptive yoga, neurological conditions, or therapeutic yoga for rehabilitation. General yoga qualifications don't always include the specialist training needed to work safely with stroke, MS, spinal cord injury, or brain injury.
You can access adaptive yoga privately, and many therapists offer online sessions which can make it more accessible. The My Rehab Journey directory lists adaptive yoga therapists across the UK who specialise in neurological conditions. Your physiotherapist or occupational therapist might also recommend someone they work with. Always discuss your specific condition and limitations with your therapist before starting, so they can tailor the practice to your needs.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is adaptive yoga different from regular yoga?
Yes. Adaptive yoga is modified for neurological conditions. Poses are adapted for movement limitations, balance issues, or fatigue. It's therapeutic, not fitness-focused.
What qualifications should an adaptive yoga therapist have?
Look for specific training in therapeutic or adaptive yoga for neurological conditions. A standard yoga teacher certification isn't enough. Ask about their experience and training.
Can yoga help with spasticity or pain?
Yes. Gentle stretching, breath work, and nervous system regulation through yoga can reduce spasticity and pain. Combined with other therapies, it's a valuable tool.
Do I need to be flexible to do adaptive yoga?
Not at all. Adaptive yoga meets you where you are. It's about gentle movement, breath awareness, and calm. Flexibility isn't the goal; wellbeing is.
How much does adaptive yoga cost?
Classes or private sessions typically cost £15-£40 per class in the UK. Some instructors offer package rates or sliding scales. Group classes are usually cheaper than private sessions.
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