“Your props for your yoga practice today are a Mat, Strap, Block, Bolster… and a Chair.” -yoga teacher
Chair Yoga, how so???
… the physical aspect of yoga classes can sometimes feel inaccessible to individuals with varying abilities. This is why we’re passionate about accessible yoga, because everyone should be able to benefit from this amazing practice.
Our approach to yoga meets you where you’re at, regardless of physical condition, age, or experience level. Our goal is to make yoga truly universal, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their practice.
The truth is, the chair is rarely offered as a valid yoga prop-definitely not as often as other props. Additionally, many students and teachers undervalue the chair.But we’re here to change that!
We hold an unwavering ethos about creating a more accessible yoga environment. From a recent Yoga Loft blog written by us, Ashlee McDougall, co-owner of Yoga Loft, and Bonnie Golden.
You can read the full blog about our approach at accessibility, here.
So here’s our view:
Yoga should be accessible to everyBODY. We love to use the chair as a prop to make that happen.
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You are about to have or are recovering from surgery such as knee replacement.
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Your balance is challenged and knowing the chair is available helps you practice standing poses.
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You are recovering from an injury or illness and want to ease back into a practice without feeling self-conscious.
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You are improving balance, and the chair can help you safely do so.
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You aren’t feeling comfortable getting up and down off the floor.
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Late pregnancy or prenatal physical restrictions make it difficult to move.
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You need to modify the practice for other medical reasons.
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Current physical limitations such as weight or different abilities require a seated practice or support of a chair.
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You want a gentle practice that helps you feel grounded.
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You want to learn how to practice at your work place and you don’t want to get down on the yukky floor!
Yoga Loft teachers are committed to adapting ALL the tools of yoga (not only the physical poses; we have a blog about that here) to the needs of the individual or group they are guiding at that moment in time.
In our ever-evolving yoga class schedule, we’re excited to add Gentle + Strong, our most accessible yoga class! This class is designed to encourage the use of one of our favorite props: the chair!
Gentle + Strong, taught by Bonnie Golden, combines seated yoga asana (the poses), breath work, and meditation to create a gentle class that’s accessible to most. Standing pose variations are also optional, with the chair to hold for balance.
You will be introduced to meditative breathing, which will strengthen your mind-body connection. You will also find support by using props like blocks, bolsters, and chairs. You will find an increase in your flexibility and strength at a gentle pace.
You will not be required to get up and down off the floor. Sign Up Now