Have you tried yoga? This question is notoriously annoying amongst people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME). Well-meaning and clueless advice givers often suggest yoga when they discover that a friend or colleague is suffering from CFS. What they don’t understand is that the very nature of chronic fatigue makes it very difficult to do any sort of exercise, and often leaves people feeling worse for days.
In my hypnotherapy practice, I work with a lot of people suffering from chronic illnesses like (CFS/ME). Anxiety, depression, dissociation, negative thought patterns, lack of boundaries, and trauma are often linked to chronic illness and are commonly a big part of what needs to be resolved for these clients on their path of healing and recovery. I find that as these problems are resolved, clients are able to start moving away from their contracted, isolated way of being, and step into a new, more active, more fulfilling, and healthy lifestyle.
The problem with chronic illnesses like chronic fatigue syndrome is that while people are suffering, they have to limit their physical activity so much that their bodies weaken. This physical limitation is necessary while they are ill, but as their mental, spiritual, and emotional health improve, their physical capabilities often lag due to weeks, months, or even years of a sedentary lifestyle.
As they progress through their healing processes in Depth Hypnosis, many of my clients reach this point where they are ready to return to a more normal life, but they still don’t trust their bodies to sustain their endeavors. And the reality is, they really do need to take it slow in order to avoid an injury caused by their weakened state. This turning point when my clients have reached a place where they are ready to move forward, but are limited by their bodies is when I love to ask, “Have you tried yoga?” After we have a good laugh at the irony of the suggestion, I explain why I think they might be ready for it, and why I think it’s a great gateway to a more integrated lifestyle.
People recovering from chronic illness need to take small steps toward strengthening their bodies. Even going slightly beyond physical limitations can cause injury and discouragement. Gentle, mindful yoga can be an excellent way to learn to really listen to the body and give it exactly what it needs. The mindfulness of a yoga practice teaches people to know their bodies and recognize when they need rest or recovery. It helps people with a history of dissociation to learn how to stay present through challenging emotions. It helps people know where in their bodies they are storing their emotions. A regular practice gives a grounding place for those who struggle with stress and anxiety. The stillness and focus can bring forth very powerful insights. At the same time, a regular practice enables someone who is weak of body to slowly build strength and flexibility. All of these things make yoga, in my opinion, the ideal tool for those who are the path of recovery.
There are some things to keep in mind when deciding to adopt a yoga practice. It is imperative when begining yoga to be mindful not to push past physical limitations. I encourage my clients to take baby steps and build their practice slowly over time. Yoga is most effective when you have a consistent, regular practice, take breaks when you need to, rest when you need to, and modify poses to avoid overextending. Yin yoga can be a good place to start, and more vigorous practices would not be appropriate. Self-paced home videos or private instruction would be ideal.
If you are interested in beginning yoga after chronic illness, or as a companion to Depth Hypnosis, I have a recommended place to start. Adriene Mishler is an online yoga instructor who has hundreds of free online yoga videos to suit every mood and level of experience. Adriene's motto is "Find what feels good." She is very good about reminding you to check in with your body and only go as far as is comfortable for you. You can pick and choose from her many videos, or if you sign up for her email list, you can get monthly calendars with curated and recommended videos for each day. Whether you are building strength after a prolonged illness, or are looking for ways to be more present in your body and life, yoga is a great place to start.