SCOLIOSIS, or curvature of the spine, is a common condition affecting about 1 in 10 Americans. Signs of scoliosis include:
- One shoulder higher than the other
- Protruding ribs on one side
- One hip higher than the other
- One foot always turned out
If you suspect that you have undiagnosed scoliosis, an orthopedist or chiropractor can assess the location and degree of curvature.
YOGA CAN HELP!
If you have scoliosis, the therapeutic use of yoga postures and breathing practices may improve your condition in several ways. You can learn to:
- Release muscular tension
- Lengthen and expand chronically compressed areas
- Strengthen weak, underused muscles
- Derotate the spine
- Realign neck, shoulders and hips
- Improve breathing
- Deepen body awareness
- Restore a sense of lightness and balance
Naturally, the extent of these benefits will depend upon each individual's spine, musculature, general health, and willingness to practice.
QUALIFIED INSTRUCTION
The therapeutic effects of Yoga for Scoliosis depend on using the postures somewhat differently than in an ordinary yoga class, so it is very important to have qualified instruction. Bonnie Williams Ambrosi is a certified Yoga for Scoliosis instructor, trained by Elise Browning Miller, the nation's foremost authority on yoga for scoliosis. (See www.yogaforscoliosis.com)
Both private lessons and group classes in Yoga for Scoliosis are offered. For new students, at least one private lesson is required before attending a group class. For more information, or to schedule a session, contact Bonnie at (218) 728-9942 or grihastashrami@gmail.com.