Yoga provides an effective natural way to deal with many symptoms of MS. For example, yoga can help with fatigue, spasticity, balance, coordination, improve range of motion and strengthen weak muscles. Many people with MS find that they have increased energy and their moods are improved with regular yoga practice.
There are programs specifically designed for people with multiple sclerosis. Generally, these are slower paced yoga programs with slow stretching and a focus on breathing and movement to release muscle tension. A good program offers a customized approach, depending on how you are feeling on a specific day.
When you are having a good day, you can try a bit more challenging practice and go slower on days when you are not feeling up to an intensive workout. One of the hallmarks of yoga, whether for MS or a general practice, is to listen to your body and move at your own pace. This is especially important for treating MS symptoms.
The breath body link is important in yoga and offers specific benefits when managing MS symptoms. Slow, rhythmic breathing and moving with the breath offers physical and emotional benefits. The length of the inhalation and exhalation breaths should be the same and you should breathe slowly and deeply to fill the entire torso, including the chest, back and into the abdomen.
There are modifications in most types of yoga to match the movement and intensity to your needs and level of flexibility. In hatha yoga and other types of yoga, props are used to modify specific asanas. This is done to increase stability and support the body in the poses.
There are many yoga props available and you can use items from around the house, if you don’t have a certain prop. For example, some of the props that are used include straps, blocks, and bolsters. If you don’t have these items, you can use the belt to a bathrobe, books for blocks and folded blankets or pillows for bolsters. The important thing is to use the props to get the most from your practice, while giving your body the support it needs.
Because each person with MS is a unique individual, you should get your doctor’s permission to try yoga to relieve your symptoms. A qualified yoga therapist or class that is specifically designed for people with MS may be the best way for you to get started. Your therapist or teacher can guide you and offer advice for a home practice to use in between sessions to get the maximum benefit.