HEALTH CHALLENGES:
Generally, yoga is very therapeutic. However, if a student complains of a specific health condition that is beyond basic structural imbalance, suggest to this student to see a licensed health professional. Be sensitive and observe students closely, especially the face,the eyes, and the color of skin.
MENSTRUATION:
During the menstrual cycle, women should avoid strenuous practice, especially inversions where the pelvis and feet are above the heart, this could disrupt the flow of blood.
PRE-MENSTRUAL SYNDROME:
A balanced routine of poses and pranayama. A balanced asana session will provide strength and calm to the uterus and stimulate the endocrine glands. Meditation is excellent during this time to balance hormones.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE:
If you do inversions, perform sequence of poses such as down dog and standing forward bend without lifting your head up. Make all transitions slowly. Avoid strenuous poses and active flows or staying in poses too long. holding arms overhead can create excessive pressure on the heart.
HEART CONDITIONS:
Avoid strenuous poses, increase exertion gradually and slowly. Stop and rest frequently. Opening shoulders and gentle backbends are useful. Balanced breathing is excellent and can be practiced daily. Meditation is highly suggested.
LOW BLOOD PRESSURE:
Just like with the high blood pressure, transition from positions slowly and with caution.
CHRONIC FATIQUE:
Restorative yoga poses are wonderful. especially supported inversions. Alternate between active and passive poses, stimulating and calming the heart rate can balance the inner rhythm and bring it back to normal.
ASTHMA:
Supported backbends with deep breathing can be beneficial. Support strong flow of energy.
HEADACHE:
Exercises that release neck muscles, engaging upper back and shoulder-blade muscles, Inversions such as Viparita Karani with legs up the wall are very beneficial. Cover eyes with eye bag.
