ABOUT
Are you struggling to do
the things that matter to you?
The Yogaroots approach is grounded in occupational therapy (OT), weaving yoga into the process. As the holistic rehabilitation profession, OT is rooted in a whole person approach - body, mind, spirit. OT is further informed by an understanding of the big picture: the complex, dynamic relationships between the person, their occupations (activities) and the environments in which these experiences unfold. It is the mosaic of all our occupations, from self-care to productivity to leisure, that gives our life structure, purpose and a sense of identity.
Occupational therapy is much more than "work therapy"; occupational therapy is therapy for the job of living.
From an OT lens, we explore the nature of your challenges, within the context of your unique reality. From here, synergistic opportunities for growth and change are identified. We support you to take control, to increase action and participation, to live with meaning.
At Yogaroots, we attune to your unique needs. We meet you where you are at and seek to understand you in an authentic way to encourage a deep, meaningful transformation. Are you ready to reimagine, to take control, to root to rise? It's never too late. Contact us today.
*Occupational Therapy services are income tax deductible. If you have extended health benefits, services may be covered.
yoga & OT
a perfect union
"Occupational therapy and yoga are rooted in similar holistic beliefs about unification of the mind, body, and spirit" (Bradshaw, 2016).
“Yoga is a complete system of occupational [activity/ lifestyle] regulation... relating occupation directly to health and wellbeing”.
~Yoga: An Ancient Occupational Therapy? (Mailoo,2005)
What is occupational therapy (OT)?
In a nutshell, Occupational Therapy is a mainstream health profession grounded in a holistic approach to rehabilitation and wellness.
What kind of training does an OT have?
Occupational Therapists are regulated health professionals in Canada. They have completed a rigorous masters degree program. This includes 26 weeks of clinical practicums in hospital and community settings.
Yoga Class vs Yoga as Therapy:
What's the difference?
Yoga Class/ Therapeutic Yoga Class:
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Student - Teacher relationship
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General practice of yoga techniques
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Registered Yoga Teachers need only the most basic training (10 hours) in human anatomy; no training in medical conditions.
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Typically a group setting
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Limited individual focus or adaptations specific to health concerns
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"Therapeutic" is not "therapy"
Yoga in Occupational Therapy:
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Client - Therapist relationship
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In depth holistic assessment & treatment plan
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Tailored to your concerns & goals
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Private & confidential as per health laws
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Registered Health Professional status; services covered by extended health plans*
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Masters degree in the human systems (physical, mental, emotional), medical conditions & rehabilitation
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Rigorous competency assessment: 26 weeks (1000hr) practicum in hospital/clinics & a national board exam
Meet the Therapist
Alana has a background in yoga, psychology, rehabilitation science and environmental studies. A registered yoga teacher since 2008, it was her keen interest in the therapeutic benefits of yoga that led her to discover, and then pursue a masters degree in occupational therapy. Among the many "occupations" that are meaningful to Alana, she is a lover of wandering trails in mountains, riding waves in the sea, and a gypsea soul with eternally itchy feet. She is currently rooted in Jasper National Park and offers private therapy services with limited availability.