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Asana / Pose Contraindications Index by Condition — for Yoga Teachers, Yoga Therapists, Health & Wellness Coaches, Holistic Healthcare Providers

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, we introduce the essential topic of contraindications, cautions, and how to choose appropriate pose alternatives.

Objective

Understand the importance of recognizing and applying contraindications and cautions, and be prepared to choose alternatives with clarity and discernment.

Description

Define contraindications and distinguish them from cautions. Using sacroiliac (SI) joint pain as an example, examine a pose that is contraindicated and one that may be practiced with caution. Explore why knowledge of contraindications alone is not always sufficient to guide students effectively, and consider key principles for selecting appropriate alternatives. When you learn of a condition while teaching, you need a resource that is both quick to access and comprehensive. Developed from hundreds of references over decades of research, the Contraindications Index is an invaluable tool for yoga teachers and others working with injuries or health conditions. Easily scan the index to identify poses and breathing practices to avoid — supporting clear, confident, and informed decision-making.

Related Lessons

This is part of a series of related topics. Use the quick menu above to navigate within this section.

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