Yoga vs. Yoga Therapy: What’s the Difference and Which One is Right for You?
Yoga has surged in popularity as a tool for physical fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. But in recent years, a specialised branch—yoga therapy—has gained traction, particularly among those seeking targeted relief for health issues. So, what sets these two practices apart?
1. Purpose: Wellness vs. Healing
Yoga is a holistic practice designed to harmonise mind, body, and spirit. Whether you’re flowing through a Vinyasa class or holding poses in Hatha yoga, the focus is on building strength, flexibility, and inner peace. It’s ideal for general wellbeing and stress reduction.
Yoga therapy, on the other hand, is clinical in nature. It addresses specific health challenges—like chronic pain, anxiety, or post-surgery recovery—by tailoring practices to individual needs. Think of it as a personalised prescription for healing.
2. Approach: One-Size-Fits-All vs. Customised Care
In a typical yoga class, you’ll follow a teacher-led sequence designed for a group. While modifications are often offered, the practice isn’t tailored to your unique physiology or medical history.
Yoga therapy starts with a detailed assessment. A therapist will evaluate your posture, breathing patterns, and health goals, then craft a plan that might include:
- Gentle asanas for joint mobility
- Breathwork to regulate the nervous system
- Meditation techniques for emotional balance
For example, someone with hypertension might focus on calming pranayama, while a PTSD patient could use grounding poses to ease hypervigilance.
3. Training: Teachers vs. Therapists
Yoga teachers complete 200–500 hours of training, learning to guide safe, effective classes. Their expertise lies in group instruction and general wellness. I did an initial 500 hr yoga teacher training course with The Inner Yoga Trust.
Yoga therapists undergo 1,000+ hours of advanced study, including anatomy, psychology, and pathology. They’re trained to interpret medical reports, collaborate with doctors, and adapt practices for conditions like diabetes or depression. I did a further 100 hr adaptive chair yoga training, 600 hr Thai Yoga Therapy training, 60 hr Yoga for Health training and 600 hr Yoga Therapy Training.
4. Setting: Group Energy vs. Individual Attention
Yoga thrives in studios and online platforms, where collective energy fuels motivation. It’s perfect if you enjoy community and variety.
Yoga therapy often happens in clinics, private sessions, or small groups. The intimate setting allows for close monitoring and adjustments—like tweaking a pose to avoid aggravating a knee injury.
5. Outcomes: Feeling Good vs. Getting Better
- Yoga helps you feel better overall—more relaxed, energized, and connected.
- Yoga therapy helps you heal, with measurable goals like reduced pain levels or improved sleep quality.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Opt for yoga if you want to maintain fitness, manage stress, or explore spirituality.
- Try yoga therapy if you’re recovering from an injury, navigating a chronic condition, or seeking trauma-informed support.
Final Thoughts
Both practices offer profound benefits, but their applications differ. Yoga is your go-to for daily wellness; yoga therapy is a healing ally when life throws curveballs. Whichever you choose, the journey inward is always transformative.