Multiple sclerosis, or MS, occurs when your immune system attacks the myelin sheaths that protect the nerve fibers in your brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include numbness in limbs, tremors, dizziness and fatigue. According to MayoClinic.com, women are twice as likely to develop MS as men.
A 2004 study at Oregon Health & Science University found that yoga -- Iyengar yoga, in particular -- helps MS patients with fatigue and enhances physical health and quality of life. Iyengar yoga is known for its emphasis on therapeutics.
Yoga Background
Yoga offers physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation as a balancing practice for body, mind and spirit.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine cites studies that show yoga can heighten your mood, decrease stress, improve muscle relaxation and improve strength and flexibility. These benefits are all helpful in dealing with MS symptoms.
Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar yoga, developed by and named for B.K.S. Iyengar of Pune, India, focuses on precise alignment and the use of props -- such as straps, blocks, blankets and chairs -- to modify poses. Breathing techniques, meditation and restorative poses all offer therapeutic benefits such as better body awareness, stress management skills and overall well-being.
Eric Small, co-author of "Yoga and Multiple Sclerosis: A Journey of Health and Healing" and a certified Iyengar instructor, began practicing yoga 50 years ago after he was diagnosed with MS at the age of 22. Supported by the National MS Society, he developed a yoga program with a focus on MS.
Yoga Practice
The American Yoga Association recommends a 30-minute daily yoga practice to relieve MS symptoms. A gentle yoga practice helps your body rest; breathing techniques can reduce stress, release pain, and improve concentration; and meditation can build an inner support system.
To help with fatigue and heat intolerance, common for those with MS, breathing exercises and restorative poses cool the body and calm the nervous system.
Modifications
Iyengar yoga offers many modifications using chairs, blocks, straps, blankets and the wall. Eric Small adapted many of the Iyengar poses, including downward facing dog against the wall while sitting in a chair; seated forward bend and bound angle pose using two chairs; and spinal twist in a chair. He also recommends the restorative pose, legs up the wall, which you can do either on the floor or on a bed.
Considerations
If you have MS, see your physician before beginning a yoga practice. Look for an MS-trained instructor or one who is knowledgeable about MS. Be sure to stop practicing if you feel pain.
