How yoga can help hypermobility?
- Hypermobility is a condition where the joints have a greater range of motion than normal, which can make them more prone to injury and instability. Yoga can be beneficial for individuals with hypermobility because it can help improve joint stability, build strength, and increase body awareness. Here are some ways yoga can help individuals with hypermobility:
- Strengthening: Yoga poses that focus on building strength in the muscles around the joints can help stabilize the joint and prevent injury. Strength-building poses like Plank, Warrior II, and Bridge can be especially helpful for those with hypermobility.
- Proprioception: Proprioception refers to the ability to sense where the body is in space. This can be challenging for individuals with hypermobility, but yoga can help improve body awareness and proprioception. Focusing on proper alignment and engaging the muscles around the joints during yoga poses can help individuals with hypermobility better understand where their joints are in space.
- Mindfulness: Yoga is a mindfulness-based practice, which means that it encourages individuals to be present and aware in the moment. This can be especially helpful for those with hypermobility, as it can help them tune into their bodies and recognize when they need to back off from a pose to prevent injury.
- Modifications: Many yoga poses can be modified to make them more accessible and safe for individuals with hypermobility. For example, using props like blocks or straps can help provide additional support and stability in poses like Triangle or Downward Facing Dog.
- Slow and controlled movements: Individuals with hypermobility may benefit from practicing yoga at a slower pace and focusing on controlled movements. This can help them better engage the muscles around the joints and prevent overstretching.
- Overall, practicing yoga mindfully and with proper alignment can help individuals with hypermobility build strength, stability, and body awareness, and reduce the risk of injury. It is important for individuals with hypermobility to work with an experienced yoga teacher who can offer guidance and modifications tailored to their specific needs.