1 reply to this topic

[Jane M. Martin]

Good morning, Dr. Sharma,

Yes, that answers my question. The ability to relax the upper body is so important for people with COPD. They tend to carry a lot of tension in the shoulders and chest. I've never thought as much about the spine, but it makes a lot of sense that we have to pay attention to it.

Here is a follow-up question though, for folks who might be interested in taking a yoga class if they feel it might work for them. How do they know that the teacher is well-trained and reputable and not just somebody who has no idea what they're doing and just wants their money? This, especially for people with COPD who might be more limited and need special instruction.

Thanks!
Jane.

[Dr. Sharma]

Good morning Jane

Your concern is very valid. There are lot of untrained as well as hghly trained yoga teachers in U.S.

Here are a few guidelines:

1. Only go to a teacher who is registered with Yoga Alliance (a credential evaluation body) at least 200 hours, preferably at 500 hours level, which means that they have received teachings in Yoga for 200 hours or 500 hours.

2. Go to a teacher who teaches "gentle" yoga, soothing and nourishing yoga rather than strong, power, or challenging yoga

3. Go to a teacher who teaches coordinating breathing with yoga poses. Some teachers would only focus on yoga poses and that is not good

4. If they have seen my DVD or attended my workshop in "Yoga for COPD" that would be an added bonus

IMPORTANT: A YOGA TEACHER OR PERSON WITH COPD SHOULD NEVER ADVOCATE THAT YOGA ALONE IS ALL YOU NEED. PEOPLE WITH COPD NEED YOGA, SOME AEROBIC EXERCISE (WALKING OR TREAD MILL) AND SOME RESISTANCE TRAINING SUCH AS WITH WEIGHTS

VIJAI