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Chapters (5)

WHAT IF YOU CAN’T DO THE POSE? | Yoga for Beginners | Yoga for Chronic Pain

Santosha Spirit · 6:00

In this practice

Key teachings

  • Embracing modifications as integral to practice
  • Listening to your body and its unique needs
  • Yoga is for every body, regardless of ability
  • Self-compassion and acceptance in your practice

Ideal for

  • Yoga beginners
  • Individuals experiencing chronic pain or illness
  • Those recovering from acute injury or illness
  • Anyone seeking a more adaptable and personalized yoga experience

Lesson

Instructions

In this video, I share three ways to make your yoga practice more accessible for your body when you find that you can’t do the traditional version of a yoga pose. These tips can help if you’re a yoga beginner, if you have chronic pain or illness, or if you’re recovering from acute injury or illness.

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ABOUT ME + SLEEPY SANTOSHA Hi! My name is Rachel. I am the creator of Sleepy Santosha. I am a certified yoga instructor who specializes in yoga for chronic illness. Although I hold two teaching certifications, the classes I teach are largely inspired by my own firsthand experiences with chronic illness and my personal yoga practice. Because I know what it is like to live with chronic illness, I am able to create yoga classes that intuitively support the needs of someone who is experiencing chronic pain, fatigue, brain fog, etc. and many of my classes can be practiced in bed. If the practice in this video didn't suit your needs, be sure to check out the other yoga classes on my channel. I try to provide a variety of intensity levels.

Music by Kevin Macleod

Steps

  • Instruction on modifying traditional yoga poses
  • Guidance on using props (blocks, blankets, chairs) for support
  • Exploring alternative pose variations for accessibility

Benefits

  • Increased accessibility and inclusivity in yoga practice
  • Reduced risk of pain and discomfort during yoga
  • Empowerment to practice yoga safely and effectively
  • Improved self-awareness and body connection

Practice summary

Level
all levels
Duration
15 minutes
Equipment
Yoga matYoga blocks (recommended)Blankets or cushions (recommended)Chair (optional, for seated variations)
Target areas
Mind body connectionJoint support and protectionFull body adaptabilityMental approach to physical practice
Energy
calming

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