Yoga has been used for centuries for all of the benefits that it offers. It aids in peoples mental and physical well-being no matter what the skill level is. Yoga is composed of movements which build strength and flexibility, along with that, there are periods of rest in the practice for meditation and mindfulness. The word ‘yoga’ means union or connection. It provides an opportunity to connect your mind and body and accept them for what they are.
If you are a person with an amputation, you may believe that you are not able to do yoga. This could be sad news, especially if it is something you did before the amputation. The good news is, it is definitely still possible to practice yoga with a prosthetic. When you are ready to try yoga, make sure you seek professional help by a qualified yoga instructor. There is also special training an instructor can take to assist people with prosthetics in their yoga practice.
Yoga can be used as part of rehabilitation, it helps to build strength in core, hips, back and knees. It will also help with flexibility which will help to be able to complete everyday tasks. Not only will yoga physically help with strength and flexibility it can also help with pain.
Along with the physical health benefits of yoga, there are many ways it can help with mental health. People who have had amputations and now practice yoga with a prosthetic have reported it helps with depression, anxiety and PTSD. Studies have also shown that doing yoga as a person with an amputation can help to accept oneself in the new physical form. Yoga is a great practice to use to reduce stress and clear your mind.
When you first start out practicing yoga with a prosthetic, it might not come naturally. It could look and feel awkward but if you stick with it you are sure to benefit from all of the mental and physical rewards of regularly practicing yoga.
RESOURCES
https://www.limbs4life.org.au/news-events/news/yoga-for-amputees
https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputee-yoga-classes-teachers/