Yogable
A Gentle Approach to Yoga – for Special Populations
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I know what I want to say. I’ve had a written outline for months, and it’s been in my head for years. And yet, all I can do is take a deep sigh and think, “So, you want to teach yoga to special needs kids and adults? Bless you!” This population will love you and challenge you. They are honest, and they can be loud or very subdued. You may be touched, smelled, licked, and hugged, or just as easily ignored and dismissed. One minute your heart may be so full you’re simply bursting with love, and the next you are asking yourself, “Why am I doing this?” Before saying yes, be aware these kids will be your teachers. They will stretch you to grow, maybe beyond your comfort zone, to be a better person, and they will hold you accountable. It’s really not for the faint of heart. Now, let’s continue. How do we begin a special needs yoga class? Start by saying “Yes, you are welcome here. The whole family is welcome here.” I am big on family style yoga for the special needs population. As the parent of a special needs child, I have spent many hours in waiting rooms and on the sidelines, with other worn out parents, while my child participates in therapies, treatments, and sports. When I started teaching Special Needs Family Yoga, it was with the intention to include parents, to provide an activity where the special needs child, siblings, and parents may participate together. It’s all inclusive!
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About the Book
Yogable delivers the ancient teachings of yoga, making them accessible to all abilities and fitness levels. Learn how to set up a yoga class for all types of special populations, including those on the Autism Spectrum, and how to practice and deliver yoga in a gentle way. Delve into fascinating information on the relationship between yoga and the body’s aura. You’re invited to discover your creative flow with the guidelines presented and find your inner teacher.
About the Author
Patty Wildasinn lives in Southern California with her husband and two adult children. Her son, Kaler, who was diagnosed early in his life with Autism and an overgrowth disorder called Soto’s Syndrome, has been a driving force in her personal journey and an inspiration for teaching yoga to special populations. Patty is a Level Two certified Kundalini Yoga teacher and has taught yoga to all levels and abilities. She loves working with non-typical yogis, seniors, and kids with special needs, which fueled her passion and commitment to make yoga accessible to everyone through acceptance, modification, and choices. Prior to teaching yoga, she was a counselor by profession working primarily with people in chemical dependency rehabilitation facilities. Her background in human development and helping others to succeed carries over naturally into her teaching and writing. In the beginning of her yoga journey, Patty was given the spiritual name of Patwant Kaur. The destiny provided by the name translates as “The Princess Who is the Keeper of the Honor.” Patty is honored to maintain, expand, and share life and the yogic teachings with extraordinary groups of people.