Arthritis is Crippling – Arthritis No More!
It was not so very long ago that I had difficulty walking due to severe joint pain in my knees. It was crippling. Anyone can get arthritis, I know many fit and healthy people who have suffered from it from time to time. It is so discouraging to be athletic, slim and fit then suddenly have trouble getting up the stairs. I put on weight and the troubles began to multiply. I know I am not alone with this.
I took that period of my life as notice from the Universe to slow down and start looking more deeply within. Along with a thorough look at life, I also did mountains of research. I developed skills to overcome the arthritis. I altered my diet, was persistent with gentle yoga postures that kept me moving and in time it did work. Like everyone, my constitution is unique to me and I now know it very, very well. It took a while to eliminate the arthritis but I was successful.
I walk everyday now completely pain free. I hope I will never know the pain of arthritis again but if I do I will know how to deal with it. Having been through this I now choose to assist others in doing the same.
It is well documented in many medical studies that Yoga works well in eliminating Arthritis, or in some cases at least reduces the pain and keeps the person mobile. Ayurveda understands the different constitutional types and why one food is good for one person and toxic for the next. Arthritis and Diabetes are among the most common ailments for which Ayurvedic help is being sought.
Below is an excerpt I chose from volumes of material from the John Hopkins Arthritis Center on the topic:
“Additionally, physical activity is an essential part of the effective treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to treatment guidelines published by the American College of Rheumatology(7, 8). In persons with arthritis, exercise is safe and does not exacerbate pain or worsen disease(9-12). In fact, exercise may play a key role in promoting joint health(13), since those who do not exercise often suffer more joint discomfort than those who do(14). The health and psychological benefits of exercise are widely recognized(15, 16). However, regular physical activity is especially important for people with arthritis, who often have decreased muscle strength, physical energy, and endurance(17), in part due to their arthritis and the tendency to be sedentary(1
In summary, yoga can be a meaningful and enjoyable alternative to traditional forms of exercise such as aerobics or aquatic exercise with important health benefits. Yoga can play an important role in reducing stress and frustration that results from pain and disability, and increasing positive feelings and wellbeing.”
http://www.hopkins-arthritis.org/
I have been an Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist for the past 15 years and recently have had many people arriving at my regular classes with arthritic joints. This makes some of the postures difficult and it is frustrating for them to try keeping up with the group. In response to this I have developed a 12 week program which will cater to each individual and provide them with an opportunity to explore what Yoga can do for them in an appropriate setting.”
In this 12 week Integrative Yoga Therapy Program offered at Island Yoga Vista each client will have a personal session with me prior to the group class starting. Here their needs, goals and general health concerns will be assessed. At the end of the program they will leave with a daily practice routine appropriate to them.
A gentle yoga class and understanding of Ayurveda will gradually build flexibility, balance and strength. You will develop determination and enthusiasm to continue. As your goals are met you will see the value in understanding your constitutional needs and how best to work with them.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from Arthritis please give this 12 week program a try. I am certain that you will be thankful that you did.
Sandra Sagarmurti Shotton