bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Attitude and Body Image Satisfaction in Women with Alopecia at Different Stages of Chemotherapy
Authors: Faustova A.G. , Vinogradova I.S.
Published: July 2020

Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures used in various oncological diseases are often accompanied by the unwanted and uncontrolled appearance defects. The presence of an acquired visible difference is a significant source of stress, which is often ignored. The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between self-attitude and body image satisfaction in women with alopecia undergoing chemotherapy for cancer of the reproductive system. The study involved 20 women (mean age 52,15 years) without alopecia who start a course of chemotherapy treatment, and 20 women (mean age 51,55 years) with alopecia provoked by 10-40 courses of chemotherapy. An empirical study was conducted at the Ryazan Regional Clinical Oncology Center. Respondents were asked to fill out the Scale for assessing the level of satisfaction with the own body (O.A. Skugarevsky), the Self-Attitude Questionnaire (S.R. Pantileev), and to perform the projective technique “Human Figure Drawing” (K. Machover, F. Goodenough). Based on the obtained empirical data, specific regression models were revealed for each sample, demonstrating the dependence of self-attitude on the self-assessment of various components of the body image. In the experimental group of patients without alopecia, an adaptive level of self-acceptance is underlied by the high self-esteem of the external appearance of the chest (p=0,028), ears (p=0,039), and hair (p=0,017). Self-attachment among respondents in this group is determined by self-esteem of the abdomen (p=0,037). In the experimental group of patients with alopecia, other components of self-attitude were the most significant. The level of self-accusation is determined by the self-esteem of the pelvic region (p=0,048), ears (p=0,043), and hair (p=0,047). The reflected Self-attitude is determined to self-esteem of the chest (p=0,029), back (p=0,032), and arms (p=0,027). The patterns revealed in each sample are confirmed by the results of the projective technique “Human Figure Drawing”. Women with cancer of the reproductive organs, both before and after chemotherapy, mainly pay attention to those components of the body image that are associated with femininity and physical attractiveness, as well as those that undergo severe changes in the process of radical treatment.
The Ultimate Cure: Enlightenment in Daily Life
Authors: Dreaver Jim
Published: July 2020

Enlightenment has often been spoken of as the "ultimate cure" for human suffering. Yet what does it mean to be enlightened? D. T. Suzuki, the scholar who did so much to introduce Zen to the West, defined it this way: "Enlightenment is the thunder-and lightning discovery that the universe and oneself are not remote and apart, but an intimate, palpitating Whole."
Reviews
Authors: Mahowald Dawn , Ripoll Emmey
Published: July 2020

Hatha Yoga for People with Cystitis - Cystitis is an inflammation of the urinary bladder lining whose symptoms include mild to extreme pain, frequent urination,and incontinence. By one estimate cystitis currently affects over one million people in this country, and it is reported that two out of every five people will develop some form of cystitis during their lifetime.
Toward a Definition of Yoga Therapy: A Panel Discussion
Authors: Cope Stephen , Feuerstein Georg , Kraftsow Gary , Lasater Judith , Miller Richard
Published: July 2020

In my editorial to the previous issue (no. 9, 1999), I posed two related questions that seem to me to be vitally important to the further development of Yoga therapy. First, can true health be attained without inclusion of our spiritual nature?Second, does Yoga therapy that excludes the spiritual aspect of our being serve the betterment of humanity. or is it just another manifestation of materialism (and narcissism)and subject to vanishing together with a materialistic civilization bent on selfdestruction?
Stress Management through Yoga
Authors: Serber Ellen
Published: July 2020

Stress is a common condition, a response to a physical threat or psychological distress, that generates a host of chemical and hormonal reactions in the body. In essence,the body prepares to fight or flee, pumping more blood to the heart and muscles and shutting down all nonessential functions. As a temporary state, this reaction serves the body well to defend itself. When the stress reaction is prolonged, however, the normal physical functions that have in response either been exaggerated or shut down become dysfunctional. Many have noted the benefits of exercise in diminishing the stress response,and a host of studies points to these benefits. Yoga, too,has been recommended and studied in relationship to sffess, although the studies are less scientifically replicable. Nonetheless, several researchers claim highly beneficial results from Yoga practice in alleviating stress and its effects. The practices recommended range from intense to moderate to relaxed asana sequences, along with pranayama and meditation. In all these approaches to dealing with stress, one common element stands out:The process is as important as the activity undertaken. Because it fosters self-awareness, Yoga is a promising approach for dealing with the stress response.
Yoga Therapy: Further Ruminations
Authors: Feuerstein Georg
Published: July 2020

The panel discussion published in the last issue ("Toward a Definition of Yoga Therapy") elicited a number of written and oral responses, making it clear that the business of defining the discipline of Yoga therapy will be an ongoing effort for some time to come. Positions appear to cover a wide spectrum—from "Yoga therapy is not a genuine discipline" to "Whenever the intent is to heal with yogic means, we are dealing with Yoga therapy" to "Yoga therapy is an emergent alternative discipline" to "Yoga is intrinsically a type of therapy." I would like to offer the following further thoughts.
Yoga Therapy and the U.S. Tax Code: Policy and Practical Considerations
Authors: Kepner John
Published: July 2020

Expenses for "Yoga therapy" should be deductible if they are specifically for medical care (as broadly defined by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or "IRS") and not merely for the general health of the individual. Moreover, the deductibility of payments depends on the nature of the services rendered and not the experience, qualification, or title of the person rendering the service. Proof of medical purpose, however, remains with the taxpayer. The profession itself and the informal business practices of some Yoga therapists may not offer the taxpayer much documentation support. In addition, due to the high percentage threshold, tax deductibility is of limited practical benefit for most taxpayers, with the exception of those using Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs).
Doing Research: A Tutorial for Yoga Teachers
Authors: Young Jane
Published: July 2020

This article describes a Yoga teacher's experience in conceiving, designing, and implementing a research project. The study examined the effects of brief Yoga training on symptoms of psychological distress in individuals recovering from heart disease. A quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and non-equivalent groups was used. Seventeen cardiac rehabilitation outpatients (mean age: 65, age range:53-81) in three hospital programs received six weeks of Yoga training. The Yoga intervention consisted of modified Yoga postures practiced dynamically and integrated with conscious breathing. Each session ended with several minutes of regulated breathing practiced in a resting position. Emphasis throughout the six weeks was on cultivating a relatively long, smooth exhalation. Participants in the Yoga classes made significant improvements in their scores on Anxiety, Somatization, Tension,Depression, and the global measures, General Severity Index and Mood Disturbance. Somatization was the only variable in which the comparison group scored as high as or higher on the pretests than did the treatment group. The comparison group showed little change in Somatization at the end of the study, whereas the treatment group's differences were statistically significant (p <.01). Participants reported a number of benefits on an open-ended questionnaire at the end of the six weeks. At three-months follow-up, 12 of 15 respondents were maintaining at-home practice. The author discusses issues confronted by Yoga teachers attempting to measure and document the effects of their teaching. Consideration is given to other methods of inquiry appropriate for examining the processes as well as the outcomes of a Yoga intervention.
Yoga and Emotional Healing for Aggressive Youth
Authors: Robold Libby
Published: July 2020

This article addresses an often misunderstood phenomenon—the plight of the emotionally challenged child—and how Yoga can make a difference in the healing process. An example of a working class plan for a small group is outlined, ready for a teacher, parent, or counselor to adapt to the needs of their children or students. Emotional impairment is often complicated by factors such as mental and psychological disturbances,post-traumatic stress, neglect, abuse, physical problems,or just being a part of the foster care and court systems,and Yoga can address many of the issues faced by this increasing population. Yoga as therapy, combined with the arts, makes good medicine and is a valuable complement or alternative to traditional treatment.
Integrated Movement Therapy™: Yoga-Based Therapy as a Viable and Effective Intervention for Autism Spectrum and Related Disorders
Authors: Kenny Molly
Published: July 2020

Integrated Movement Therapy™ is an individual and group therapy approach that combines speech-language pathology, behavioral and mental health counseling,and Yoga. It is taught by master-degreed therapists who are also certified Yoga instructors. Although this approach has been successfully implemented with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD), Learning Disabilities, Pervasive Developmental Delay, Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Dyspraxia,and other specific motor-based disorders, it has had especially consistent and remarkable results with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Integrated Movement Therapy has six core principles:structure and continuity, social interaction, language stimulation, self-calming, physical stimulation, and direct self-esteem building.

The following article will describe Autism Spectrum Disorders in depth and will show how each of the six core principles of Integrated Movement Therapy specifically addresses the characteristics associated with Autism. It will also note specific, documented improvements in all areas addressed based on qualitative ratings scales and parent feedback.
Creating Yoga Therapy Classes and Individual Sessions that Work
Authors: Le Page Joseph
Published: July 2020

This article outlines a model of Yoga therapy based on the five koshas, or levels of being. By recognizing separation in individuals or groups at the level of the physical body, energetic body, psycho-emotional body,wisdom body, and bliss body, Yoga therapists can facilitate healing at all levels by designing a program of appropriate yogic techniques. A five-step process of development is described, whereby the therapist describes what is happening at each of the levels, looks at areas of separation, examines the role of stress in the separation process at each level, determines factors and yogic techniques to facilitate wellness for this group or individual, and builds a practice or class lesson plan that incorporates the selected yogic techniques.

Successful development of Yoga therapy sessions and classes requires detailed knowledge and understanding of the structure, systems, and functioning of each of thekoshas and the tools provided by Yoga to facilitate healing on all levels. The goal of all Yoga therapy is to create the appropriate environment, conditions, and relationship with the student for optimal health, healing, and awakening. Each student is addressed at the level of his/her own needs whether these be physical, emotional,or spiritual. Ultimately, all healing comes from the realization by the student of his/her own indwelling source or essence. The Yoga therapist facilitates the student's journey toward wholeness by maintaining that connection within him/herself, offering the elements of Yoga most appropriate for the student and maintaining a loving,nonjudgmental space for the student's growth.
Alternative Billing Codes and Yoga:Practical Issues and Strategic Considerations for Determining "What is Yoga Therapy?"and "Who is a Yoga Therapist?"
Authors: Kepner John
Published: July 2020

Alternative billing codes (ABC codes) have been developed to identify alternative medicine, nursing, and other integrative health care services, including unlicensed practices such as Yoga. Using the lens of ABC codes to examine what it would take to become recognized in this system highlights many of the issues Yoga therapy will have to address to be viewed as a professional practice offering therapeutic services. Among these issues are organized representation, standards, and a mechanism for national accreditation. For discussion purposes, illustrative standards for Yoga therapists are sketched out in the appendix (Editors' note: See this issue's Editorial for further thoughts on the development of Yoga teaching and Yoga therapy standards in the United States).
Yoga Group Therapy with Traumatized Adolescent Males
Authors: Longaker Kiranjit , Tornusciolo Gabriel
Published: July 2020

This paper describes how Yoga groups have been implemented as a form of interpersonal group therapy with adolescent males who have experienced severe trauma in their lives. It discusses how over time these groups have evolved to exhibit 11 therapeutic factors that are necessary for effective interpersonal group therapy. It then describes the ways in which these groups help the members begin to cope with and heal from the effects of their trauma without having to rely on traditional"talk" therapy.
Yoga Breathing Techniques (YBT) in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):A Preliminary Study
Authors: Vedanthan P.
Published: July 2020

Yoga Breathing techniques (YBT) have been in vogue as an adjunct treatment in the management of asthma. The current study was done to determine the value of YBT in patients with COPD. Eleven patients (6 male, 5 female) in the age range 61–82 years (mean age 72) with an established diagnosis of COPD volunteered to participate in the study. Written consents were obtained prior to start of the study. All subjects were taught the YBT and relaxation techniques by a senior Yoga teacher. The procedure for YBT used in this group was modified to accommodate the limited physical capabilities of the participants due to their age as well as the severity of their COPD. The techniques involved breathing exercises with hand stretching, guided relaxation,sectional breathing, and meditation. All the participants received recorded audiotapes so that they could practice these techniques at home for a period of one week prior to the study. All the subjects were on continuous supplemental oxygen 1–3 liters per minute via nasal prongs.

On the study day, baseline vital signs (blood pressure,pulse rate) were taken, a physical examination was done, and spirometry and oximetry were performed and readings recorded. The supplemental oxygen supply was stopped and subjects were asked to perform the YBT off oxygen. The subjects were closely watched and supervised by the Yoga teacher, as well as by the principal physician investigator, during this procedure. Continuous oximetry readings were taken and readings were recorded at baseline, 10 minutes, and 20 minutes during the performance of the YBT. Pre- and post-Yoga spirometry also was performed and recorded. All the subjects were requested to write down their impressions of the effect of YBT. Results: Oxygen saturation dropped to an average value of 87% (range: 82%–92%) immediately after the oxygen supply was discontinued. The oximetry values rose at 10 minutes to 92% and at 20 minutes to 94% during theYBT session on room air alone (without the use of supplemental oxygen). Ten out of 11 subjects felt subjectively better and relaxed overall. One subject could not tolerate being off oxygen, but still felt better subjectively during YBT. Spirometry values before and after YBT did not show any significant change. Conclusion:YBT seems to offer some benefit to patients with COPD and emphysema.
Yoga Hatha Medica: An Integrated Medical Yoga Curriculum
Authors: Cheikin Michael
Published: July 2020

A physician describes the evolution of using his Yoga practice to help his patients heal. Over the past two decades he has been developing a curriculum that integrates yogic and medical knowledge bases to enhance each other. Included are considerations of how to apply the "scientific method" to the development of a Yoga practice, as well as case studies.
Creative RelaxationSM : A Yoga-Based Program for Regular and Exceptional Student Education
Authors: Goldberg Louise
Published: July 2020

School is a stressful place, especially for those with special needs. Sitting still, paying attention, staying on task are not skills that come easily to anxious learners,yet classroom learning is very difficult without these constraints. There are few opportunities in most educational curricula to train students in the skills required for self-control and focusing the mind. Any Yoga teacher knows, however, that control of the body and mind are skills that one can learn with instruction and practice. Creative RelaxationSM is a Yoga-based program designed to teach students to strengthen, stretch, and calm the body, quiet the mind, and control the breathing. The teaching principles of Creative Relaxation are as follows: make a sacred space, engage the student, provide tools for success, and create opportunities for independence. This article will demonstrate ways to apply these principles in an educational setting for regular and exceptional student education, based on the experience of the author as a consultant in the public school system since 1981. Anecdotal data and examples will be given from the author's work with children in regular education,as well as with those with autism and related disabilities,emotional handicaps, ADHD, and learning disabilities, and with anxious learners. In addition, the author collaborated with school professionals in a study to evaluate the effectiveness of a Yoga-based relaxation program for six children with autism over an eight-week period. A summary of the group's findings is presented.
Yoga and Chronic Pain Management—Telling Our Story
Authors: Wood Ginger
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To examine the effects of an 18-month period of Yoga therapy on a single student suffering from chronic pain, specifically fibromyalgia, and to determine what measures are needed to report improvements. Improvements documented over a specific time period in a controlled setting can further the case for using Yoga as a primary means for managing fibromyalgia and chronic pain and also provide a background to establish a working dialogue with practitioners of Western medicine. Study Design: Using case-study research methods, an 18-month period of gentle Iyengar-based Yoga was implemented 1–2x/week in a woman suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Findings: The findings showed that the student steadily improved in many measures, including pain, body awareness, medications dose/type, body weight, cholesterol, hypertension, bone density, and subjective quality of life measures(increased confidence, improved body image). Conclusions:The information collected during this study provides positive evidence that can assist in the future development of chronic pain management with Yoga therapy. As Yoga therapists, we have a professional obligation to document the changes and improvements our Yoga students are experiencing in a controlled Yoga studio environment. Collecting this information is vital to establishing an open dialogue between practitioners of Western and Eastern medicine. Future case studies and research should include more diverse populations of chronic pain sufferers as well as the use of tools that quantify a student's intangible concerns and complaints(i.e., pain level, quality of life, psychological health,emotional health, ease of daily activity completion, etc.).
A Perennial Debate
Authors: Khalsa Sat Bir
Published: July 2020

This issue of the journal includes a number of articles that address the manner in which Yoga practices are applied for therapeutic and research purposes. One of the central arguments made by many of the authors is that applying isolated Yoga âsanas or breathing techniques for a specific medical complaint, in isolation from the entire spectrum of Yoga practice as a multi-component lifestyle intervention, carries limitations and potential problems. This is by no means a new issue, and is one that parallels a number of old but ongoing discussions.
Reflections on Researching Yoga
Authors: Sherman Karen
Published: July 2020

I spend a great deal of time thinking about the most appropriate ways to design studies to evaluate various complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies. Each type of CAM therapy offers unique challenges to the researcher, and Yoga is no exception.
What Yoga Therapists Should Know About the Anatomy of Breathing
Authors: Kaminoff Leslie
Published: July 2020

The emerging field of Yoga therapy offers its practitioners a singular opportunity to provide the public with accurate and useful information about breathing. In this article, I summarize the four most common confusions about breathing, based on a review of how breathing is described and taught in Yoga literature. To dispel each of the common confusions, I present anatomical information, analogies, and images. This anatomical information can inform the practice of Yoga therapy, as illustrated by principles from the Yoga therapy tradition of T. Krishnamacharya and T.K.V. Desikachar.
Harvesting the Full Potential of Group Yoga Therapy Classes
Authors: Taylor Matthew
Published: July 2020

Group Yoga therapy is a valuable tool for supporting students with health challenges. This article describes the current use of group settings in Yoga, followed by steps Yoga therapists can adopt to build successful and sustainable group Yoga therapy programs. Curriculum design, participant skills, support materials, and business considerations are included in the discussion. The article also presents an argument for honoring and facilitating both the prescriptive and process aspects of Yoga therapy.
Enhancing the Quality of Communication and Collaboration between Yoga Practitioners and Clinical Scientists
Authors: Goldin Philippe , Manber Tali
Published: July 2020

One of the most exciting social movements of our time is the surging interest in Yoga practice and research. It is important that bridges between Yoga practitioners and academic scientists be forged in order to produce high-quality, reliable research. Such bridges often arise from formal and informal discussions at conferences, local Yoga studios, and centers for mind-body practice or research. One important upcoming event that will connect the Yoga community and the scientific community is the inaugural Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research (SYTAR) to be held in Los Angeles in January 2007.
Keeping Compassion in Yoga Therapy
Authors: Devi Nischala Joy
Published: July 2020

Many students initially come to Yoga because they are suffering, whether in body, mind, emotions, or from our most common suffering, a disconnection from spirit. They ask Yoga for "just one technique that would work to cure me," something simple to do that would alleviate back pain, headache, depression, and even cancer or heart disease.
Going Forward
Authors: Lee Michael
Published: July 2020

The 2007 IAYT conference in Los Angeles was a huge success. In particular, I appreciated the diversity and professionalism that was present and celebrated throughout the event. I left with two key ideas that I want to support with action going forward:

1. Research is very important, and we need to embrace it individually and as a profession.

2. Standards are also very important to the practice of Yoga therapy, and we have a unique opportunity to not only create standards for our profession but to do so in a way that acknowledges, embraces, and supports our diversity.
Editorial
Authors: McGonigal Kelly
Published: July 2020

At the 2007 Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research opening session, an IAYT member issued a challenge to the speakers on the "What is Yoga Therapy?" panel: Would they commit to beginning a serious conversation on the issues of defining Yoga therapy, creating training standards for Yoga therapists, and deciding whether and how Yoga therapy should be regulated as a profession? This issue marks the beginning of a public conversation. The Perspectives section includes opinion pieces by several members of IAYT and IAYT's Advisory Council, including the founders of three Yoga therapist training programs. To shed some more light on the possibilities and pitfalls of professional regulation, the journal invited an article by legal expert Michael Cohen ("The Search for Regulatory Recognition of Yoga Therapy: Legal and Policy Issues"). This issue also includes interviews on these topics with IAYT's new president, Janice Gates, and the president of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA), Wynn Werner.
Yoga for Asthma
Authors: Morse Deborah
Published: July 2020

This article reviews relevant research on the possible benefits of Yoga interventions for individuals with asthma. Research suggests that Yoga, especially when practiced with inclusion of the whole of its traditional techniques (including âsana, prânâyâma,meditation, and relaxation) provides benefit for asthma sufferers. The article then offers suggestions for Yoga teachers and Yoga therapists who would like to develop a Yoga practice for students with asthma. Specific prânâyâma and âsana practices are described. The recommended practices will help students with asthma develop a new awareness of how physical posture and breathing techniques can minimize the frequency and severity of asthma episodes.
A New Direction for Yoga Therapy? A Physician's Perspective
Authors: Usatine Richard
Published: July 2020

The first annual SYTAR conference by IAYT was full of energy and hope for the future of Yoga therapy. Yoga therapy is now a professional discipline with a variety of standards and a blossoming research base. I will address the opportunities and pitfalls for the development of Yoga therapy from the perspective of a practicing physician who uses Yoga in his own life and prescribes Yoga for his patients. I am not a Yoga therapist, but I have been fortunate to learn much about Yoga therapy while co-writing Yoga Rx with Larry Payne.
What Yoga Therapists Need to Know about Ayurveda and Kinesiology
Authors: Stiles Mukunda
Published: July 2020

This perspective responds to two questions that John Kepner, director of IAYT, asked following discussions on establishing standards of education for Yoga therapists:

1. What suggestions do you have on the anatomy,physiology, and possibly Ayurveda requirements for Yoga therapists? Assuming there is a limit to the requirements one might expect, should Ayurveda be a substitute for anatomy and physiology, or should strong anatomy and physiology be a foundation for all therapists?

2. I am quite sensitive to the student teacher relationship issue. It's a key part of Yoga therapy,and it's also a disappearing element in much of today's conventional healthcare environment. I don't know how to address that in standards,but I certainly don't want to impede that in any fashion either.
Yoga and Ayurveda: A Call for a Complete Yogic System of Medicine
Authors: Frawley David
Published: July 2020

To bring out the full healing potential of Yoga, what we need is not just Yoga therapists applying the tools of Yoga according to the guidelines of Western medical doctors. What we need in the long run are Yogic doctors who can diagnose and treat disease according to the Yogic medical system of Ayurveda. This article explores the separation of Yoga therapy and Ayurveda in the West and how they may be brought together.
End-of-Life Yoga Therapy: Exploring Life and Death
Authors: Taylor Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Loss and death are ongoing, universal, natural aspects of life. Yoga therapy is a profession that inherently addresses the many physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects within end-of-life care and requires extensive preparation both professionally and personally. This article introduces concepts, tools, and specific guidelines that can assist Yoga therapists to more effectively and compassionately serve those who are living with serious illness, loss, and end-of-life issues. Yoga philosophy that supports end-of-life therapy is discussed.
*Good-bye Back Pain – Leonard Faye DC *Healthy Back: Exercises for High-Stress Professionals – Larry Payne *Energize with Yoga – Lilias Folan
Authors: Martin Donna , Rain Willow , Dreaver Jim
Published: July 2020

*Good-bye Back Pain, subtitled "A step-by-step guide to full back recovery," by chiropractor & author Leonard Faye DC, provides a clear and readable explanation of the major causes of back pain and the various treatment approaches currently available.

*An excellent companion to Good-bye Back Pain, and a useful booklet on its own, is Larry Payne's, Healthy Back: Exercises for High-Stress Professionals. An experienced Yoga teacher who has trained with, T. K. V. Desikachar and Professor A. G. Mohan, Dr. Payne has become an expert in treating back problems using Yoga therapy.

*Energize with Yoga, by Lilias Folan. Anyone who has worked with Lilias in person knows that her classes can range from the vigorously challenging to being totally relaxing. Either way, she is an empowering teacher, and the "energizing" effects of doing yoga with Lilias come as much from her joyful enthusiasm as from her impeccable yoga.
Discerning the Fundamental Problem According to Advaita Vedanta
Authors: Saraswati Swami Dayananda
Published: July 2020

Vedanta is not a technique, nor a theory nor a system that one can learn and apply to the ways of the mind. It is a teaching that changes your understanding... your vision, in fact, of the nature of all problems that the mind comes up with. Thus, the very nature of problem-solving is altered by seeing that when one solves a specific or topical problem it is only a temporary resolving.
Asana as Sculpture, Kinetic Toy and Worshipful Ritual
Authors: Rain Willow
Published: July 2020

A sculpture is the indwelling potential of the stone or wood to be carved. An artist uncovers the shape, sensitive to the qualities and character of the material. Likewise, asanas are expressions of the inherent potential of the human bodymind.

Each time an asana holds a body, the posture creates a new and unique sculpture. Body parts may assume positions similar to those held previously, but variation is infinite in the subtle points of expression. Breathing may be manipulated or left free flowing.
Understand Your Backache: A Guide to Prevention, Treatment & Relief
Authors: Cailliet Rene , Lasater Judith
Published: July 2020

Not surprisingly, when I was in physical therapy school, our anatomy text was Gray's Anatomy. Because the text is so detailed, we would occasionally ask our teacher how much we had to know. The answer was always the same: "Know everything. You can't know enough anatomy."

Obviously, keeping anatomical details in mind is difficult at best, yet a thorough knowledge of lumbo-sacral anatomy is critical when working with Yoga students who may be suffering from lower back pain. Cailliet's book makes this task easier for several reasons
Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse with Yoga
Authors: Lilly Mark , Hedlund Jaime
Published: July 2020

This article outlines the rationale and best practices for helping young people recover from the trauma of sexual abuse using integrative and therapeutic Yoga practices. As a model for such work, we describe a specific program, Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse with Yoga, currently offered by the authors in the Portland, OR area. The program serves both girls and boys and has a teen leadership component to allow older youth to serve as role models for preteens. This article outlines the necessary steps for working with this population, including self-inquiry, training, program design, teaching strategies, and integration with other therapies and services. A full eight-week curriculum is described, with focal points for each class, as well as suggested poses, mantras, creative activities, and mindfulness practices. The article also addresses specific contraindications and risk factors and ways they can be mitigated. Finally, it covers observed outcomes from two sequential eight-week sessions of the Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse with Yoga program.
The Use of Yoga for Spiritual Development in Older Adults: A Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Wang Donna
Published: July 2020

As Yoga teachers, therapists, and practitioners, we are fully aware of the benefits of Yoga for the physical, mental, and spiritual bodies. We have embraced these practices, and for many of us, they have changed our lives, health, and perspectives on life for the better. One of the goals of the Yoga community is to make these benefits of Yoga available to everyone. However, as simple and wonderful as that may sound, the truth is, it is easier said than done. Although Yoga has become quite mainstream over the years, there are still many segments of the population that have not been adequately reached out to. Older adults is one of those populations.
Is Women's Participation in Different Types of Yoga Classes Associated with Different Levels of Body Awareness Satisfaction?
Authors: Delaney Kelley , Anthis Kristine
Published: July 2020

This study examined the relationship between women's participation in different types of Yoga classes and different facets of body image. Ninety-two women at five different sites of Yoga instruction completed assessments of Yoga experience, internalization of Yoga principles, body satisfaction, body awareness, body consciousness, and eating attitudes. Yoga experience was coded according to months/years of practice, self-rated expertise, and how much the classes attended emphasized the "mind" aspects of Yoga (e.g., meditation, breathing, mindfulness, and chanting) as well as the "body" aspects (postures, fitness). Participants in Yoga classes that included more emphasis on the mind showed significantly greater levels of internalizing the teachings of Yoga, as well as greater body awareness and satisfaction. Greater experience with Yoga was associated with lower objectified body consciousness. Greater internalization of Yoga principles was associated with greater body satisfaction and sense of control of the body. Greater self-rated expertise in Yoga was associated with greater body awareness and fewer body shape concerns. None of the Yoga measures was significantly associated with the Eating Attitudes Test, which is designed to measure attitudes and behaviors associated with eating disorders. Although correlational, the results of this study suggest that further attention be paid to how the psychological benefits of Yoga differ across different types of Yoga classes. Future experimental research on the psychological benefits of Yoga should examine the importance of emphasizing a fully integrated mind-body practice rather than only the fitness aspects of Yoga.
An Overview of Regulatory Issues for Yoga, Yoga Therapy, and Ayurveda
Authors: Seitz Daniel
Published: July 2020

In order to gain greater credibility, emerging healthcare and health-related fields usually establish a variety of self-regulatory structures and organizations. These structures serve to promote safe and effective practice, strengthen the field's legal status, expand professional opportunities, increase the profession's political influence, and legitimize a field in the eyes of potential patients, potential students, governmental entities, and the healthcare industry. Self-regulatory structures can also set the groundwork for professional licensure and other types of external recognition. Developing self-regulatory structures, however, can pose significant challenges and invariably involve trade-offs. Therefore, practitioners and educators within emerging fields should engage in inclusive, representational, and transparent decision-making processes to build support for any self-regulatory measures being considered.
The Art of Yoga Project: A Gender-Responsive Yoga and Creative Arts Curriculum for Girls in the California Juvenile Justice System
Authors: Harris Danielle Arlanda , Fitton Mary Lynn
Published: July 2020

As girls enter the juvenile justice system, they stand on the precipice of a lifelong cycle of crime and incarceration, yet still have the opportunity to turn toward healing and rehabilitation. With this in mind, The Art of Yoga Project (AYP) has designed a gender-specific intervention that combines Yoga, visual arts, and creative writing to help girls learn how to create a positive future for themselves. This article introduces AYP and shares the goals, objectives, and experiences of the program. A thorough description of AYP's comprehensive Yoga and Creative Arts Curriculum is provided, including a sample class plan and overview of the entire course. Eight principles of best practices are presented and discussed. We hope that this blueprint will inspire and empower other Yoga therapists to develop similar programs that serve this important and underserved population.
Teaching Yoga in Urban Elementary Schools
Authors: Harper Jennifer Cohen
Published: July 2020

Teaching Yoga to children is a fulfilling but challenging journey, particularly in poverty-stricken urban school districts. The physical, mental, and emotional impact of poverty on children has serious implications for their academic achievement. Introducing Yoga as part of their regular school experience shows tremendous potential for helping students navigate challenges that interfere with learning. This article helps teachers and therapists understand the experience of providing Yoga and mindfulness programs in urban elementary schools and provides specific information on ways to ensure successful program implementation, including a sample class description, activity instructions, and best practices in training teachers and teaching.
Yoga, Pradhana Dharma, and the Helping Professions: Recognizing the Risk of Codependency and the Necessity of Self-Care
Authors: Garland Kate Hillman
Published: July 2020

As members of the helping professions, we are drawn to giving. We craft our careers around service to others. But what exactly do the classical texts of Yoga say about duty, giving, and service? Is this in conflict with the messages we receive from our modern world and the values it projects? This article contrasts the philosophies of Vedanta and Samkhya in an examination of the concept of dharma, or duty, and how it pertains to Yoga teachers, Yoga therapists, and other members of the helping professions. From a careful reading of core Yogic texts and reflection on the risks of codependency, this article offers suggestions for finding balance and maintaining a practice in accordance with the values of Yoga and its teaching of dharma, through appropriate self-care.
Partner Yoga for Establishing Boundaries in Relationship: A Transpersonal Somatic Approach
Authors: Swart Amy
Published: July 2020

This article is written for yoga therapists and psychotherapists who work with couples who have difficulty setting boundaries and maintaining individuality in their relationships. Partner yoga, transpersonal psychology, and somatic-based psychology are approaches that can provide clients with a holistic system of therapy to encourage healthy boundaries and emotional connection. The process of partner yoga is described from a transpersonal, somatically oriented approach. Examples of specific asanas, or yoga poses, are discussed alongside the special considerations that a therapist must consider when exploring boundaries and communication through partner yoga. Insights from individual case sessions with couples are included to illustrate the process of differentiation and the possibility of experiencing a transpersonal union through partner yoga.
This I Know for Sure
Authors: Lasater Judith Hanson
Published: July 2020

The practice of yoga therapeutics is still very much in its infancy in the United States. While there are increasing numbers of teachers being trained in the art of yoga therapeutics,we are all still, admittedly, learning and defining our craft. With this in mind, I would like to discuss the widest possible aspect of yoga therapeutics: the context, or "canvas," of the student-teacher relationship where our art is practiced.
Table of Contents & Editorials
Authors: McGonigal Kelly
Published: July 2020

In 2005, I took over the role of editor in chief for this journal. When the board of IAYT hired me, they gave me two goals: 1. Institute a peer review process. 2. Get the journal indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE,the world's leading database of scientific and medical journals.

The first, I knew we could do. The yoga therapy world is full of people with wide-ranging expertise and a willingness to serve their profession. Whether we needed expert analysis of a pilot study or scholarly insight into the modern history of yoga, I believed our community would step up(and they did).
Yoga for Women Living with Breast Cancer-Related Arm Morbidity: Findings from an Exploratory Study
Authors: Thomas Roanne , Shaw Rhona
Published: July 2020

Treatments for breast cancer assault the body and can disrupt the relationship between body, mind,and spirit. In this article, we discuss the ways in which yoga was experienced and understood as a healing therapy among ten female breast cancer survivors between the ages of 26 and 70 and living with treatment-related arm morbidity. The women participated in 6 weekly sessions of gentle Iyengar yoga and responded to open-ended surveys before and after the intervention. The majority of women reported physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits from the practice of yoga. Specific benefits included improvements in physical function and relief from symptoms related to treatment; increased peace of mind and hope; and connection to other yoga participants. Integral to this healing process was social support from other breast cancer survivors.
Influence of Hatha Yoga on Physical Activity Constraints, Physical Fitness, and Body Image of Breast Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study
Authors: Van Puymbroeck Marieke , Schmid Arlene , Shinew Kimberly , Hsieh Pei-Chun
Published: July 2020

Breast cancer survivors often experience changes in their perception of their bodies following surgical treatment. These changes in body image may increase self-consciousness and perceptions of physical activity constraints and reduce participation in physical activity. While the number of studies examining different types of yoga targeting women with breast cancer has increased, studies thus far have not studied the influence that Hatha yoga has on body image and physical activity constraints. The objective of this study was to explore the changes that occur in breast cancer survivors in terms of body image, perceived constraints, and physical fitness following an 8-week Hatha yoga intervention. This study used a nonrandomized two-group pilot study, comparing an 8-week Hatha yoga intervention with a light exercise group, both designed for women who were at least nine months post-treatment for breast cancer. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected in the areas of body image, physical activity constraints,and physical fitness. Findings indicated that quantitatively, yoga participants experienced reductions in physical activity constraints and improvements in lower- and upper-body strength and flexibility, while control participants experienced improvements in abdominal strength and lower-body strength. Qualitative findings support changes in body image, physical activity constraints, and physical fitness for the participants in the yoga group. In conclusion,Hatha yoga may reduce constraints to physical activity and improve fitness in breast cancer survivors. More research is needed to explore the relationship between Hatha yoga and improvements in body image.
Yoga and Quality-of-Life Improvement in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Literature Review
Authors: Levine Alison Spatz , Balk Judith
Published: July 2020

Objective: Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer often turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including yoga, for improvement of mood, quality of life (QOL), sleep, and treatment-related side effects. The extant literature was reviewed to examine the clinical effects of yoga practice on QOL for patients with breast cancer. QOL was defined as physical well-being, social functioning, emotional health, and function-al adaptation. Methods: Seven databases, including PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were used to search for studies of patients with breast cancer that included a yoga intervention and QOL assessment. Attention was paid to assessing study population, outcome variables, the type of yoga intervention used, and methodological strengths and limitations. Results: Seventy-one articles were identified that fit the search criteria. Although the literature provided evidence of QOL benefits of yoga for patients with breast cancer, no specific aspect of yoga was identified as being most advantageous. Conclusion: Although participation in yoga programs appeared to benefit patients with breast cancer, greater methodological rigor is required to understand the mechanisms that contribute to their effectiveness.
Bridging Yoga Therapy and Personal Practice: The Power of Sadhana
Authors: Bhavanani Ananda Balayogi
Published: July 2020

Yoga chikitsa (yoga as a holistic therapy) is becoming extremely popular, and numerous studies worldwide are providing scientific evidence of its therapeutic potential. 1-5 In our zest to make yoga popular, we may be missing the experiential link in the chain. The interconnectivity between research findings, their therapeutic applications, and the yoga therapist's practice must be strengthened to maintain the integrity of the practice of yoga. The strength of any chain is defined by its weakest link. Similarly, the healing potential of yoga chikitsa depends on the personal sadhana (practice) and conscious living of the therapist. We are the conduits, and we are responsible for transmitting the spirit of yoga to our patients or clients.
Creating a Biopsychosocial Bridge of Care: Linking Yoga Therapy and Medical Rehabilitation
Authors: Taylor Matthew
Published: July 2020

If you are reading this perspective, chances are that you are curious about the therapeutic potential of yoga and how to build a bridge between your experience and convention-al paradigms of rehabilitation. My intention is to facilitate bridge building between yoga practitioners and the rehabilitation community, including physical, occupational, respiratory, and language therapists and speech and language pathologists. Using a question/answer format, this perspective delineates the many facets of yoga therapy as they relate to rehabilitation. Hopefully the insights offered will inspire you to create your own professional bridges and collaborative partnerships.
Yoga Therapy Research, Individualized Yoga Therapy and Call It Yoga Therapy
Authors: Criswell Eleanor , Wheeler Amy , Partlow Lauttamus Mary
Published: July 2020

Three independent perspectives on Yoga therapy research, Individualized yoga therapy and the current controversy over nomenclature for our field, i.e., yoga therapy vs. medical yoga.