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Yoga for Scoliosis

Scoliosis: Understanding and Managing the Condition

Scoliosis, derived from the ancient Greek word "scolio" meaning "twist" and "turn," refers to an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by rotation. This condition can be broadly classified into two main types:

  • Functional Scoliosis: Primarily caused by muscular imbalances and poor postural habits, such as inefficient body use, poor posture, asymmetrical activities, or injury-related compensation. If left unaddressed, functional scoliosis can worsen, potentially leading to more significant structural changes.

  • Structural Scoliosis: Involves a physical deformity within the spine's skeletal structure, often resulting from uneven vertebral growth, neurological conditions present from birth, rare chromosomal disorders, or other yet-unknown medical causes. While significant structural changes to the spine may be challenging to correct, there is considerable potential for improving overall function through physical therapy and exercises focusing on muscular and organic reorganization.

 

A Holistic Approach to Scoliosis

As a yoga trainer with over 25 years of experience, I believe in a holistic approach to managing scoliosis. I recognize that this condition not only affects the physical body but also has profound impacts on emotional and mental well-being.

 

Yoga for Scoliosis: Finding Balance and Strength

  • Improving Posture and Alignment: Yoga exercises strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and increase body awareness, helping individuals with scoliosis become more mindful of their posture and make subtle adjustments to improve spinal alignment.   

  • Enhanced Muscle Strength and Flexibility: Specific yoga poses can target weakened or shortened muscles, creating a more balanced muscular support system.   

  • Pain Relief: Yoga can alleviate pain associated with scoliosis by improving flexibility, reducing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation.   

  • Improved Breathing: Many yoga poses encourage deep, diaphragmatic breathing, which can enhance lung function and overall well-being.

  • Stress Reduction: Yoga often incorporates mindfulness and relaxation techniques, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, both of which can significantly contribute to pain and discomfort.   

  • Recalibrating Proprioception: Yoga practices can help to recalibrate proprioception, which is the body's sense of self-awareness in space. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with scoliosis, as it can help them to become more aware of their body's alignment and make subtle adjustments to improve their posture.

  • Renewing the Relationship with Self: Through mindful movement and self-reflection, yoga can help you to cultivate a more positive and accepting relationship with your body, despite the challenges of living with scoliosis.

 

My Approach to Supporting You

My approach emphasizes:

  • Individualized Care: Recognizing that each individual's experience with scoliosis is unique, I tailor my guidance to your specific needs and goals.

  • Mindful Movement: Creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your body with compassion and awareness.

  • Empowerment: Empowering you to understand your condition, develop self-awareness, and take an active role in your own healing journey.

  • Holistic Well-being: Addressing not only the physical aspects of scoliosis but also the emotional and mental dimensions of the condition.

  • Re-educating the muscular function, reorganizing the organ environment, and re-calibrating the proprioceptive sense and center of gravity.   

  • Developing a positive relationship to working with scoliosis rather than ‘correcting’ as though there is a problem with the existing body.   

  • Unveiling the full potential of what is inherent within an individual.

 

Yoga After Spinal Fusion

Individuals who have undergone spinal fusion surgery can also benefit from modified yoga practices. However, it is crucial to consult with your surgeon and a qualified yoga teacher to ensure the safety and appropriateness of any exercises.

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A Note from Adelene

Diagnosed with scoliosis at age 13, I experienced firsthand the physical and emotional challenges of this condition. Through my own journey with yoga, I discovered its profound benefits in improving spinal health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.

 

My personal experience with scoliosis deeply informs my practice. I understand the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of this condition and strive to create a compassionate and supportive environment for my students.

 

Join me on a journey of self-discovery and embrace a more harmonious relationship with your body.

 

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.

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" Scoliosis is a condition which is as much in the energetic,emotional and mental body, as in the physical body. "

~ Adelene Cheong​​​

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