Yoga

By Bernadette Curtis

Yoga seems to be on many people’s minds these days. People have discovered that yoga has many benefits to the body and the mind. It enhances muscle flexibility and tone, it relaxes and rejuvenates, it de-stresses -- all in a non-competitive and relaxing atmosphere.

In this "new age" cultural climate, yoga is a perfect solution to life’s challenges. Its restful exercises offer the participant an opportunity to be renewed and restored.

At the Hamilton Chapter of the MS Society, David Winkle, our yoga instructor, tries to de-mystify yoga. It has suffered from a reputation of being awkward. Not so! Yoga encourages a stronger body, thus enhancing overall health. David modifies exercises to suit participants’ individual physical abilities. He says, "Yoga is not about bone-breaking postures and unlimited flexibility. Rather, it is a relaxing, yet physically challenging exercise which strengthens the individual, both in body and mind."

Fatigue, a common symptom of many disabilities, can be managed with a yoga exercise program. The stretches improve circulation, which leads to heightened energy. Balance, walking and pain management can also be improved. The adapted program offered by the Hamilton Chapter of the MS Society even helps seniors in the community. Says Executive Director Sandy Alyman, "We realize that we have a unique program and we want to offer it to others who will benefit."

In addition to the yoga classes, there is also an excellent 90-minute yoga exercise videotape entitled "Body, Mind and Soul -- Adapted Yoga Exercises for Multiple Sclerosis." For details, you can contact our chapter at (905) 527-7874.

-- Hamilton, ON

Send your tips, tricks or coping methods (300 words) to: FYI, Canadian Abilities Foundation, P.O. Box 527, Station P, Toronto, ON, M5B 2H4.

ABILITIES does not research, endorse or guarantee any information supplied in this space. All ideas expressed here are the views of the writers.