YOGA VS YOGA THERAPY

The individual adapts to yoga

Yoga adapts to the individual

Mainly teaches group classes. Sometimes does private lessons

Mainly has individual sessions. Rarely teaches group classes.

Works with students

Works with clients

Education can start from 200 hours or even less

Must have a yoga teacher training of 200 hours as preliminary training plus a minimum yoga therapy teacher education of 500 hours. Often has 500+ hours of basic teacher training and 800+ yoga therapy education.

Basic anatomy and physiology during training. Focused mainly on yoga poses, breathing and meditation.

The intensive Yoga Therapy Training includes an in-depth (medically oriented) studying and understanding of different problems and diseases

Teacher may use yoga philosophy, music, mantra singing and singing bowls during class and sessions.

Therapist only uses specific techniques to address individual client's situation for empowerment of client and as motivation to become more active in self-care.

Often follows specific yoga poses during class or session as exercise that may not be therapeutic. (twist, side bend, backbend, hip opener, forward bend etc.)

Uses yoga poses needed for the client at that moment in time. Also uses other strengthening and therapeutic exercises needed to improve overall health.

Uses yogic breathing exercises

Adapts the breathing exercises to what a client is allowed to do, able to do and need.