We can all agree that the injuries are a huge bummer, and in the practice of Ashtanga Yoga they can (and most likely WILL) happen to some degree. So, what do you do when something just doesn’t feel quite right and puts a damper on your yoga practice? As a long-time practitioner, I’ve seen my fair share, so here are my top three tips for what to do when you think you have an injury:
1. If you’re feeling pain during the practice (i.e. specific movement patterns like taking your arm overhead or bending forward) immediately cease doing that movement. Let the teacher know and ask them to help you develop some modifications if possible.
2. If you’re feeling okay during your practice, but feeling pain after and throughout the day, try the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate. You could be experiencing some inflammation, and this method may help reduce pain. Another helpful strategy could be to take an anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medicine for a few days to allow it to build up in your body and work on reducing your pain, but always consult with your healthcare provider to see if this is right for you.
3. If you’re feeling pain both during and after your practice, stop what you’re doing and seek professional help. If you’ve tried methods one and two and pain persists, it’s time to step away from your practice for a while and take care of yourself. Physical therapy can be a great place to start as PTs are well equipped to evaluate and pinpoint what the issue might be to give you guidance on what the next best step is for your recovery.
The yoga practice is intended to support your lifestyle outside of the studio and to help you show up better in the various roles you play, not to chew you up and spit you out! Yes, this practice is hard, but there’s a difference between something being challenging and it being harmful. The awareness we develop in practice each day helps us to understand the difference so we can approach it with care and receive the most benefit from it.
And remember, sometimes injuries can be more taxing on our mind and emotions than our bodies! If you feel down or discouraged, know that you are not alone. It can be helpful to talk to other students and teachers to learn how to cope with feelings you’re having and receive encouragement you need from your community to take care of yourself until it’s time to return to the mat.
Have you experienced an injury? What was your plan of action and how did it work out? How did your community support you during that process? Share your words of encouragement below!