Why are contraindications and modifications important?
These days, group exercise classes are mostly taught as if one size fits all. But there are a lot of different bodies in those classes, each with their own story and medical history. Contraindications are anything (including symptoms or medical conditions) that may be a reason for a person to not do a particular practice or procedure because it may be harmful. In a smaller setting with an experienced teacher, contraindications and suggested modifications to gain the benefits of yoga without harming oneself can be offered.
What are some examples of common contraindications?
*Inversions are any position where the head dips below the heart*
**Please Note: This is not an exhaustive list of contraindications**
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Compression of the median nerves traveling through the wrist at the carpal tunnel can cause neurological issues such as tingling, numbness, or radiating pain. Weight bearing in deep flexion such as plank, handstand, wheel, or even down dog can be contraindicated.
Glaucoma: Inversions increase pressure in eyes and should be avoided.
Hypertension: Calming practices that soothe the heart rate are helpful whereas fiery, stress inducing practices that can elevate it are contraindicated for folks with high blood pressure. Most yang styles of yoga (ashtanga, power and vinyasa) are contraindicated. Inverted poses such as downward facing dog, bridge, or shoulder stand are not recommended.
Imbalanced Ear Fluid: Imbalanced ear fluid can create instability, falls, and loss of consciousness. Seated postures are recommended over standing ones.
Pregnancy: Expecting moms who have an existing yoga practice need not stop doing yoga all together. However expecting moms without an existing practice should seek medical advise before beginning. Core-strengthening poses (such as but not limited to inversions) are contrary to the separation of the abdominals during gestation. Intensive backbends, and extreme twists are generally contraindicated during pregnancy. In later terms, forward folds that compress the growing abdomen and supine positions aren’t recommended. Please note: Jules doesn’t specialize in pre/post natal yoga. Seek a P-RYT.
Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve and/or piriformis can cause neurological pain. Poses that can exacerbate this pressure such as some forward folds and extreme backbends are contraindicated. Focus on gentle stretches of the hamstrings and glutes instead.
*** This is not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your physician before beginning a yoga practice.***