Participants’ Experiences of a Mixed-Ability Yoga Series

Date
2018
Authors
Bevis, A
Waterworth, K
Mudge, S
Supervisor
Item type
Journal Article
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
New Zealand Society of Physiotherapists Inc
Abstract

The practice of yoga encourages individuals to work within their own bodies to bring balance and health to the mind, body and spirit, providing relief for symptoms of chronic conditions. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals participating in a series of mixed-ability yoga classes. Barriers and facilitators to their participation were also explored. Seven participants were recruited from the mixed physical and mental ability yoga classes. Semi–structured interviews were used to collect data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and develop themes. Prominent themes were Engagement Partnerships, Physical Activity Beliefs, Supported Participation and Concepts of Disability. These themes provided insight into the experiences of participants and the facilitators and barriers that influenced their participation. Additionally, themes were supported by literature on group cohesion and self-efficacy that highlight the potential for change to group exercise classes with cross over into rehabilitation classes. The importance of appropriate adaptation through skilled instructors was key to the success of the mixed-ability yoga series, as was the promotion of inclusion and understanding of perceptions of disability. Participants experienced health benefits from the mixed-ability yoga class. The fundamental concepts of the class can be applied in physiotherapy practice to promote physical activity for all.

Description
Keywords
Disability; Adaptation; Inclusion; Yoga; Health; Qualitative research; Physical activity
Source
Journal of Physiotherapy 46(1): 29-35. doi:10.15619/NZJP/46.1.03
Publisher's version
Rights statement
New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy. All rights reserved. Permission is given to copy, store and redistribute the material in this pub lication for non-commercial purposes, in any medium or format as long as appropriate credit is given to the source of the material. No derivatives from the original articles are permissible.