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There are numerous therapeutic modalities used in the application of yoga as a therapy. It is important to remember that yoga therapy is not a prescriptive modality and we always start from assessing the client and their disease and keep the assessment process throughout the length of the therapy. As different traditions of yoga emphasize using different methods for yoga therapy, it is therefore beneficial for a therapist to be familiar with the different lineages that offer specific practices. The more we know, the more research we study, the more tools we have at hand to help our clients. As therapists our loyalty is with the client and not the lineage—we should always use the best tool for the client’s benefit, no matter what lineage the tool comes from.

In general terms, however, we can divide a vast array of yogic practices into the following:

Consciously adopted static postures (asanas), systematic and managed breathing coordinated with movements (kriyas), and seals and locks for neuromuscular energy (mudras and bandhas) gently stretch and strengthen the musculoskeletal system in a healthy manner. They improve the mobility and flexibility of the different joints and groups of muscles. There is also concomitant improvement in the systemic function such as respiration, circulation, digestion, and elimination. A general sense of health and wellbeing is also promoted by these aspects of yoga that help release “feel good” hormones such as endorphins and encephalin.