Yoga is a universal activity that is applicable to a diverse population because of its adaptability to all ages and fitness abilities. For individuals with Cerebral Palsy, Yoga has become a commonly recommended activity due to the holistic benefits that are obtained.
Breathing exercises are a typical warm-up before actual yoga stretches and poses are executed. Breathing exercises such as the cleansing breath, the bellows breath, and the alternate nostril breathing exercise all are good exercises to help individuals with Cererbal Palsy deliver much needed oxygen throughout the body in order to help develop concentration as well as relaxation. These exercises also help strengthen the diaphragm which contributes to overall health.
Yoga may also enhance the development of feelings of self-worth. Specifically, Yoga poses and the related meditation releases endorphins throughout the body and relieves any stress that the individual may be facing at the current time. Poses such as the Downward Dog and the Cat stretch are both great poses that contribute to these beneficial effects.
Individuals with Cerebral Palsy may also experience increased muscular strength, develop better flexibility, and improve their posture through regular participation in Yoga activities. Often times people with this disorder suffer from stiff joints and obscured posture. Poses such as the Adho Mukha Svanasana actually lengthen the spine and hamstrings, as well as stretches and tones the arms resulting in less fatigue and greatly improved posture.
Yoga is an activity that helps all individuals in a variety of ways. It gives individuals with Cerebral Palsy a chance to go out and do an activity together with friends or family members which makes it a fun and enjoyable activity. Yoga is also a universal activity that gives people with Cerebral Palsy a chance to enjoy a simple activity without any pressure to perform. The atmosphere during Yoga sessions is very relaxing and provides all kinds of wonderful benefits to individuals with Cerebral Palsy. In order for a person with Cerebral Palsy to develop properly he or she must have both a healthy mind and body. Yoga just so happens to be an activity that targets both of these aspects with customized adaptive movements for each individual’s needs.
Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability.(n.d.). NCHPAD: Adapted Yoga for Children and Youth with Cerebral Palsy. NCHPAD: NCPAD Home. Retrieved June 19, 2013, from http://www.ncpad.org/297/1851/Adapted~
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