Yoga and Chiropractic! A GREAT combo!

An estimated 20.4 million Americans practice yoga—and that was in 2012! Without a doubt, yoga is huge and with good cause: it benefits the mind, body and soul. Not only that, but yoga is an ideal complement to chiropractic care.

No one knows this better than Dr. Chad Schleiger, director and owner of The Wellness Pointe of Elkhorn, WI.  "What makes chiropractic and yoga so unique is their simple principle of bringing the body back into balance, using what the body already has inside itself to self-heal and regulate". 

Mind, Body and Spirit Benefits

"The benefits of yoga are pretty amazing," says Dr. Chad from The Wellness Pointe of Elkhorn, WI.  "From physical strength, flexibility and endurance to overall better mental clarity and more energy." Those who regularly practice yoga, much like chiropractic, will experience the benefits long-term. 

As most know who have been to orientation class at our Elkhorn office, chiropractic does not treat low back pain.  And most yoga instructors will say the same -- yoga is not a treatment for low back pain but many people with chronic low back pain have shown a reduction in pain and an increase in function with regular yoga practice.  Other studies have even been linked to reduced heart rate, lower blood pressure and show improvements in anxiety and depression.  

Are you ready to hit the mat? Keep these in mind: 

Select the class that’s right for you. There are many different class styles so find the one that fits you -- from beginner to advanced. 

Avoid a large meal one to two hours before class. Lots of moving and bending may leave you feeling uncomfortable if you’re full or still digesting.

Try different instructors. There are a wide range of instructors.  Just as there are a wide range of doctors of chiropractic.  A one-size fits all mind-set is not always best.  Just because you had a bad experience with one pair of shoes doesn't mean you have to walk barefoot for the rest of your life. 

Speak up and don’t be hard on yourself. If a pose isn’t working for you, ask your teacher for a modification. Everyone who practices yoga has to adapt their practice to the specific needs and limitations of their body.

Don’t think flexibility is a requirement. Piggybacking off the last tip—practicing yoga is not about being perfect, and it’s certainly not about meeting specific requirements. And if you’re not flexible, you’re in luck! Regular yoga is bound to improve your flexibility.

Get comfy.  Wear clothing that suits you.  You'll figure this out with practice and usually after the first or second class. 

Remember to Breath and ENJOY!