What is Adaptive Yoga LIVE?
Adaptive Yoga LIVE (AYL) is a disability-led, non-profit, organization providing accessible and inclusive yoga classes that cater to any level of mobility - empowering everyBODY to experience the benefits of yoga.
Can I do the classes sitting down?
Yes. Virtually any yoga pose can be made accessible. Poses can be done seated, lying down, or assisted. The benefits are the same as a traditional practice. Our teachers are there to find the most suitable poses for YOU.
Do I need prior yoga experience to attend these classes?
No previous experience required. Adaptive yoga classes are open to everyBODY – regardless of your level of ability, age, shape, weight, or mobility. Our classes are suitable for beginners of ALL abilities.
How do I access the classes?
Join a live Zoom class to interact with your instructor and your fellow students in our free Membership Area
OR
Subscribe to our YouTube channel which has recordings of our previous classes - available to watch anytime!
Who can I email for support?
hello@adaptiveyogalive.com
What can I expect when joining an Adaptive Yoga LIVE class?
Adaptive yoga classes are generally taught with the participants seated, either in straight-backed armless chair, or in wheelchairs. Sessions are usually 60 minutes including time for relaxation and meditation. Movements are very gentle with focus on finding connection to the breath - rather than achieving physical postures.
Classes are mixed male and female and will typically include people with a range of impairments. Remember this is a judgment free zone and your fellow yogis are there to provide a supportive environment.
What is the most important thing to remember whilst practising adaptive yoga?
Listen to your body and honour what you’re feeling. Don't compare yourself with anyone else in the class and remember EACH POSE LOOKS DIFFERENT ON EACH STUDENT. Go at your own pace - its your practice - do it your way!
What are some of the benefits of practising adaptive yoga?
Improved Strength: continue with hobbies and daily activities independently
Improved Flexibility: undertake activities that you have perhaps been unable to
Improved Proprioception: the skill of knowing where your body is in space, and coordinating your movements accurately
Reduced Stress and Improved Mental Clarity: Mindful movement and meditation can help reduce stress (and thus brain fog) by bringing us to the present moment
Opportunities to Meet People and Socialise: There's nothing quite like practising yoga with people who are all sharing the same lived experience of living with chronic illness or disability. Yoga can be a great way to meet other people and feel connected to a community
What if I’m sceptical if I’m physically able to participate… is yoga really for everyone?
Yes! Yoga really is for everyone. There’s a famous saying “If you can breathe, you can do yoga.”
Yoga is actually a form of meditation - it’s about using the mind to bring awareness to the body to reach a state of peace.
Even if you are just being aware of the rise and fall of your chest as you breathe, you are practicing yoga.