Yoga for Movement Disorders

Book excerpt: A daily guide to yoga practice designed for people with dystonia, muscle imbalance, rigidity, and spasms due to such causes as Parkinson's, stroke, and multiple sclerosis. The focus is on rebuilding strength and flexibility as well as physical and emotional balance. Part 1 prepares the reader for practicing yoga. It includes an introduction, a chapter on how to begin, from where and when to practice, how to use the book, safety precautions, and a note to teachers. Part 2 flows as a yoga class would, with breathing exercises, modified poses, and guided relaxation. The poses presented in later chapters include a variety of difficulty levels, from seated to standing, with step-by-step directions and easy-to-follow photos. The mind/body connection is woven throughout and each chapter concludes with a brief list of why the day's practice is beneficial along with suggestions of how to apply the poses and concepts to everyday activities. LIM (Less Is More) Yoga, it tones and stretches gently, without exertion and with an emphasis on relaxation.