Yoga anyone? - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

TheGaddingVine · 11-13-2008, 10:22 AM

has anyone tried yoga and had good results? I'm thinking flexibility, strength, balance and co-ordination etc. Also think it might be good for relaxation and state of mind. Wondering whether to give it a shot...

MSJayhawk · 11-13-2008, 02:37 PM

Yoga and Tai-Chi have both been studied with fairly positive results for MS. That said, there are varying levels and schools of Yoga. As with any program, your instructor/teacher should know your condition and your limitations. Moderation should be the key word to remember. Too much of anything is not good. Over-doing is not good. Even when I stretch, there have been times I over-did it.

Whatever you decide to do, go into it with open eyes and foreknowledge of what you need to achieve. The more information you have and the more experienced your instructor, the better your results should be.

april1848 · 11-13-2008, 04:34 PM

My grandmother taught me yoga when I was a kid, and I've been doing it ever since. It has definitely helped with flexibility and stress release, among other things. I don't know, but I'm hoping, that it is working well for my balance--I just don't have proof.

Yoga is both physical and spiritual. Both sides require discipline and concentration. The great thing about the spiritual part is that you can ascribe to any religion and still benefit from it; for me, it's how I pray.

I would recommend it. Start very slowly though, since some of the stances can be dangerous; you have to work your way up. There are different systems of yoga. If memory serves, Hatha yoga is geared more towards physical health, while Bhakti "royal" yoga encompasses that plus deep meditation and prayer. There are other systems too, but my memory fails.

I can say for myself with certainty that it has helped me with staying balanced emotionally, making decisions clearly, relaxing, and many more things. Good luck, and have fun with it. There are lots of good books and videos about it.

Hanksmom123 · 11-20-2008, 11:32 AM

LOVE IT! It will be 2 years in April from Dx and i always liked excersise but got really tired. This is great because you are working everything but it isn't strenuous. Just make sure you start as a beginner.

Andrew1734 · 11-23-2008, 01:41 PM

Just said about yoga on another thread, i have suffered from cramping a lot in the past and the yoga helps 100%, it handy too! just get down on the floor while watching TV even and take up a few moves