Hour 94 Yoga Therapy – Designing a Yoga Therapy Session

Designing a Yoga Therapy Session

Planning a yoga therapy session is a hallowed process—an art that blends yogic insight, therapeutic sense, and scientific knowledge. Unlike typical yoga classes, a yoga therapy session is specially individualized, designed to meet a client’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual requirements.

1. Integral Principles of Session Planning

An effective yoga therapy session rests on:

Client evaluation (through intake form, observation, and conversation)

Clear therapeutic outcomes (symptom relief, improved flow of energy, emotional balance)

Gradual movement from basic to deeper practices

Flexibility depending on the client’s response after and during the session

Every session is not a prescription—it’s a co-created path.

2. Fundamentals of a Yoga Therapy Session

a) Opening (5–10 minutes)

Grounding, centering, or observation of the breath

Establishes intention for healing

Gentle mobilization of joints (Sukshma Vyayama)

b) Main Practice (20–30 minutes)

Asana (postures), Pranayama (breathwork), and/or chosen meditative practices

Personalized to treat pain, dysfunction, or emotional imbalance

c) Integration (10–15 minutes)

Deep relaxation (e.g., Yoga Nidra or Savasana)

Short silent sitting or reflection

3. Sample Themes with Asanas

Theme: Lower Back Relief

Asana: Marjariasana-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow)

Significance: Mobilizes spine, relieves stiffness

Modification: Use folded blanket under knees for cushion

Asana: Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Significance: Strengthens lower back gently

Modification: Keep elbows bent and use minimal height

Theme: Anxiety and Grounding

Asana: Balasana (Child’s Pose)

Significance: Calms nervous system, supports inward focus

Modification: Rest forehead and chest on bolster

Pranayama: Chandra Bhedana (Left Nostril Breathing)

Effect: Cooling, calming, induces parasympathetic activation

Theme: Fatigue and Low Energy

Asana: Utkatasana (Chair Pose)

Significance: Strengthens and builds stamina

Modification: Reduce load by using wall support

Pranayama: Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath)

Effect: Energizes the system, clears mental fogginess

4. Therapeutic Adjustments and Sequencing

Begin with simple and accessible movements

Include pauses for awareness and breath

Use props generously (blocks, belts, cushions, chairs) to enhance safety and efficacy

Finish with restorative poses and guided reflection

Therapy is not in the pose—it is in the awareness the pose creates.

5. Noticing and Developing the Session

Take notes after every session on client’s reaction, mood, pain, energy

Adjust and hone in subsequent sessions

Invite feedback from the client to further develop collaboration

Conclusion

A yoga therapy session is like composing a gentle symphony—each breath, pose, and pause tuned to the client’s unique rhythm. When designed with presence and intention, it becomes a space for profound transformation and healing.

“A yoga therapy session doesn’t change the body alone—it awakens the soul to its own healing power.”