﻿ Mindful Freedom - Yoga for Scoliosis - Reisterstown, MD
Mindful Freedom - Community Yoga Studio
Scoliosis is a lateral curve of the spine with a rotational component.
With scoliosis, the spine moves laterally, forming an "S" (or "C" ) curve and rotates at the same time.With this rotation, the ribs are pulled back on one side and pushed forward on the other. This causes the muscles of the torso to work differently on either side. As a result of these lateral and rotational movements, there is postural misalignment.
Two types of scoliosis
Structural or Functional
a. Structural - Structural scoliosis is an unequal growth of the two sides of the vertebral bodies causing bone deformity. Usually appearing during adolescence,
its causes are not well understood by medical science.
b. Functional - Functional scoliosis affects the muscular back and does not alter the body structurally. It can result from poor posture or repeated unbalanced activity i.e. carrying heavy books or a child on one side. Because only the muscles are involved, most functional scoliosis are reversible.
Why yoga for scoliosis ?
   By combining yoga with breath work, one can develop a postural awareness, creating a more symmetrical alignment the result for most people with scoliosis is better posture and less pain.
   This is accomplished by stretching muscles that have tightened and strengthening muscles that have become weak. Also, mindfully working to elongate the spine, assisting in bringing about a more centered alignment.
    For the beginner student, we will first work to elongate the spine and stretch the muscles that have become imbalanced. Second, practice postures that strengthen the spine and back.
   For the continuing student, along with the above, you will learn proper alignment in more advanced poses for your specific curve.
  Choosing to do yoga for scoliosis requires commitment and inner awareness. With scoliosis, it is important to not expect " perfection " but instead develop acceptance of oneself, and find one's own optimal alignment. The goal is to not make the spine " perfect " but to find your own center and Beauty.
Jennifer's Story
 Having scoliosis myself and suffering from chronic back pain for more than 15 years, I was blessed to find and train with Elise B. Miller, an expert in yoga for scoliosis. Elise's guidance gave me power over my pain. Using yoga to understand my body I was able to arrest my curve and reduce my pain significantly. Yoga has changed my life, I practice everyday and am very enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge and training with my students.
Jennifer's curve
right thoraco/lumbar 58 degrees
What Yoga allows me to do !!!!
My Teaching Method
  An initial private session is recommended. During this session, I will take history, see x-rays if available and examine the student's posture and pattern of scoliosis. Several specific poses/postures will be given to each student to address their individual needs. At this time it will be determined if the student can join a weekly yoga class or if additional  privates are needed. A possible combination of both may be helpful.
   With each initial private, you will receive a copy of Elise's 'YOGA for Scoliosis" handbook. A resourceful guide to refer to.
Scheduling a Private
To schedule a private with Jenn,  go to the "Student Registration" page and fill out form or call
60 minute session - $50.00
90 minute session - $70.00
First session usually runs 90 minutes and includes a copy
of Elise Millers book " Yoga for Scoliosis "
This will be used as refrence for future sesssions
Jennifer Working with " Curvy Girls " a local scoliosis support group
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