Individual Yoga Therapy

Body-Mind Therapy for Individuals

Sessions typically begin by getting out of the head and into the body. As opposed to talking about a problem, the therapist guides a meditation intended to slow the mind and encourage the client to focus upon the body. The therapist then leads the client in a body scan designed to heighten physical awareness and note areas of tension or holding. This data is used to choose a yoga posture that will accentuate opening in that area. The client is guided and supported in the posture by the therapist who lifts and moves the body, encouraging the client to breathe into areas where they feel sensation. The therapist engages the client in a dialogue to explore what the body is manifesting.

The body-mind experience usually culminates in a new awareness of what changes are needed in the individual’s current situation to support their physical and emotional well-being. The body experience is always brought back into life today, thereby making this form of work a body-mind integrative therapy.

Elements of a Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy Session

Each session is custom tailored to meet you where your body, mind and spirit are once you arrive to your session. The follow are some elements you may experience:

Centering & Breath Work
Using guided breathing techniques you will focus on what is happening in the moment, allowing you to become focused and clear headed.

Supported Postures
Heather will support and move your body through carefully selected postures that support your body and intention. You will lay on a soft mat with your eyes closed, allowing you to relax and notice what is happening in your body. Working with “the edge” you will attune your mind to sensations, thoughts and feelings that arise in your body.

Dialogue
Heather will check in with you in and feed back what she hears. This will allow you to hear what you are saying and clarify as needed. It also ensures safety in the postures.

Body Scan
Reflect on your body, one part at a time. This simple yet powerful technique allows you to become aware of sensations and patterns you hold in your body.

Reflection & Intention
Enjoy a quiet space to reflect on your life situation and set an intention that works for you. This allows you to focus and clarify your personal goals.

Integration
Acknowledge what you learned during the session and discover how you can bring that knowledge into your daily life. By setting small, manageable goals, you will begin to see a transformation in your life.

How will I feel after the session?

This varies from person to person, but typically you will feel deeply relaxed and a sense of well-being. Sometimes, however, you may need to process new awarenesses. Change and discovery are not always easy, so for your first session you may wish to have some free time afterward for quiet time and reflection. It is important to know that you may be accessing thoughts and feelings that previously have gone unnoticed, paving the way for growth and transformation.