Yoga Therapy
Yoga is the ancient practice of uniting breath with movement. Originating in India thousands of years ago, yoga has been used by people of all ages as a means of creating balance in the body through strength and flexibility. Yoga therapy is a gentle and safe way to enhance the development of children with special needs. Yoga postures (asanas) are used to increase body awareness, tone, strength and flexibility. Specialized breathing exercises and relaxation techniques are used to improve concentration, balance, memory and reduce hyperactivity. Yoga will also foster increased self confidence, social and communication skills. The end result is a profound improvement in a child’s quality of life.
Frequently asked questions about yoga therapy:
» What is a typical yoga session like?
Each child will be evaluated and a personalized yoga program will be created. A typical private yoga session will last 30 minutes to an hour and may consist of breathing exercises, singing, postures (asanas), games, meditation and/or deep relaxation. Sessions are designed to be fun, entertaining and engaging.
» What are the benefits of yoga therapy?
Benefits of yoga include: increased strength and flexibility, greater body awareness, improved self-esteem and confidence, increased concentration and memory, stretching and realignment of the spine, improved muscle tone, greater range of movement and coordination, relaxation, better sleeping, strengthened immune system and central nervous system, enhanced cognitive and motor skills, better communication skills, emotional balance and weight management.
» What diagnoses can benefit from yoga therapy?
Everyone can benefit from yoga! Regardless of age, flexibility, strength or disability, the benefits of yoga are profound. In fact, parents are encouraged to also practice yoga so that they too can experience the same benefits.
» What training or certifications does a yoga therapist have?
All yoga therapists at Big Sky have obtained at minimum the 200-hour registered yoga teacher credentials through Yoga Alliance and have been certified through Sonia Sumar’s Yoga for the Special Child.
» Why should my child receive yoga therapy in addition to occupational, physical and/or speech therapy?
While traditional therapy methods focus on specific goals pertaining to a child’s development, the benefits of yoga extend beyond that by targeting the total body and mind. Yoga can easily be practiced with the entire family creating a fun and bonding experience.
» My child participates in activities like gymnastics or karate, how is yoga different?
Yoga is a very gentle and safe practice that can provide your child with the same benefits as many other “sports” activities. Yoga differs in that there is little risk for injury. In addition to strengthening the body, yoga is also non-competitive, eliminating undue stress between a child and their peers. Yoga also urges a child to work from within and challenge themselves.
» Is yoga therapy covered by my insurance?
More and more insurance companies are beginning to recognize yoga therapy as a covered service. We will be happy to help you file with your insurance company by providing the necessary documentation. 
» Where can I go for more information about yoga and yoga therapy?
Links to additional information are provided on the Resources tab. You may also email us at
or call our facility with any questions that you may have.
» How do I get started with yoga therapy?
Please contact us at 512.306.8007 to schedule an evaluation. You and your child will then meet with a yoga therapist to design a personalized program.
