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Schaff Yoga Therapy’s Medical Yoga Training Program 

making yoga accessible to people with limited mobility

Schaff Yoga Therapy’s Medical Yoga Training Program provides nurses, physical and occupational therapists, yoga therapists and other treatment professionals with a solid foundation to adapt classic yoga postures for students who are limited in movement because of age, illness, disability, or injury.  Chairs, straps, blankets, blocks, and the wall are used along with gentle assists.

This training program provides 32.5 hours of continuing education credits for nurses and IAYT yoga therapists. It is recognized by the Arthritis Foundation and the International Association of Yoga Therapists as a treatment modality. Continuing education credits for successful completion of this program are awarded by the American Nursing Credentialing Center (ANCC), the Massachusetts Nursing Credentialing Council for Nurses, the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), and by IAYT for certified yoga therapists.

This course prepares you to:

  • Understand basic anatomy and physiology as it relates to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and 11 spine and hip conditions.

  • Modify classic yoga postures for people with physical impairments, ranging from neurological conditions (such as Parkinson’s and strokes) to arthritis, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis and other back conditions.

  • Use breathing exercises and meditations to deepen your students’ experience.

  • Structure classes so that students of any age, shape, size, ability, or disability may be able to participate and enjoy the yoga experience safely and comfortably.

Goals: At the end of this training program you will be able to:

  • Guide people living with physical limitations confidently and compassionately through a yoga experience that is both safe and satisfying.

  • Be prepared to teach yoga in a variety of settings including independent and assisted-living facilities, nursing homes and hospitals.

This training program is appropriate for nurses, physical and occupational therapists, physicians, yoga therapists and for those interested in deepening their own personal practice.