5 benefits of pranayama for adults with learning disabilities
Pranayama is part of the 8 limbs of yoga is focused on breathe work. 'Prana' meaning energy or life force and 'ayama' meaning control and is known to have many benefits including improved concentration, reduces anxiety and depression, improves relaxation and increases oxygen availability in the lungs. Introducing those technique to adults with a learning disability has benefits for their physical health as well as emotional and psychological well being.
Being present People with learning disabilities rarely take time to be still and present. By introducing simple technique of focus on breathe they calm and forget about everything else even for a short period. Standing in Tadasana ( mountain pose), eyes closed and hands by the sides of the body focusing on the breathe can help focus and prepare the group for yoga class.
Using the whole of the lungs Everyone generally uses a small percentage of their lungs during respiration. By focusing on deeper inhalation and exhalation you can increase the lung capacity used in respiration. This means increased oxygenation and use of the base of lungs that are rarely used. In people with learning disabilities they can be prone to chest infections. So deep breathing can help reduce the chance of developing chest infections.
Improve coordination Using breathing techniques such as square breath help people focus and coordinate inhalation/exhalation with movement of a finger in a square pattern.
Increase control over facial and respiratory muscles Blowing bubbles may seem like a very simple technique. Think about the facial muscular and breath control required to successfully blow bubbles through a wand. To maintain a long slow breathe or form the lips in a circle may be very difficult. However everyone enjoys blowing bubbles and have fun trying not realising the physical benefits.
Pranayama being FUN Yes it can be fun. Brahmari (bumblebee breathe), elephant breathe, snake breathe (hissing sounds), lions breathe all add fun and laughter. Even putting a block in the abdomen and asking the group to watch it fall and rise as they breathe in and out adds fun to breathe work.
Pranayama for adults with learning disabilities has many benefits. For people who experience chronic or frequent chest infections or breathing difficulties it has a physical health benefit, exercises facial and respiratory muscles, helps to aid relaxation and bring fun to the start of a yoga class.
Try it....
