We believe Yoga for Arthritis instructors are trained to provide the best classes and one on one sessions for arthritis patients. You can find our directory of teachers on our website HERE.
However, we recognize many parts of the country don't have a Yoga for Arthritis instructor yet. If you would like to participate in a yoga class, but can't find a YFA instructor near you, here are some tips for choosing the right class.
If you have arthritis, and want to feel comfortable when you’re selecting an instructor or class, here are some key questions to ask yoga instructors.
* star indicates for arthritis patients
STYLE | FOUNDER | CHARACTERISTICS | RECOMMENDATIONS |
Ananda | Swami Kriyananda | Very gentle. Preparation for meditation. Directing of energy. Affirmations combined with poses. | Longer meditation may be difficult for arthritis patients. |
Anusara | John Friend (student of B.K.S. Iyengar) | Anatomically-based. Emphasis on opening the heart. Extensive teacher training. | Recommended for most arthritis patients.* |
Ashtanga | K. Pattabhi Jois (student of Sri T. Krishmanacharya) | Specific sequence. Continuous movement. Very strenuous. | Not recommended for arthritis patients due to physical rigor. |
Bikram/Hot | Bikram Choudhury | Taught in 100-110 degree room to expel toxins and increase mobility. | Not recommended for arthritis patients due to extreme heat. |
Integral | Swami Satchidananda (student of Swami Sivananda) | Gentle practice including poses, breathing, chants, and meditation. | Recommended for most arthritis patients.* |
Iyengar | B.K.S. Iyengar (student of Sri T. Krishmanacharya) | Strong anatomical basis. Uses props to individualize poses. | Recommended for most arthritis patients.* |
Kripalu | Amrit Desai | Taught in three stages with evolving emphasis. Stage One focus on learning poses and understanding body. | First stage recommended for most arthritis patients.* |
Kundalini | Yogi Bhajan | Intended to awaken latent spiritual energy through poses, breathing, meditation. | Intensity of breathing techniques may be challenging for some patients. |
Sivananda | Swami Vishnudevananda (student of Swami Sivananda) | Gentle practice including poses, breathing, chants, and meditation. | Recommended for arthritis patients. |
Viniyoga | Sri. T. Krishnamacharya | Individualized practice. Breath and movement very coordinated. Extensive teacher training. | Recommended in private sessions for most arthritis patients.* |
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Yoga for Arthritis 6221 Eastern Ave #5155 Baltimore, MD 21224