Yoga for Arthritis (YFA) is a specialized training that uses the tools of yoga to improve the health and well being of people living with arthritis. YFA can help you rediscover freedom of movement and the inner power to live life on your terms. This certification enables yoga instructors to offer unique workshops while also knowledgeably guiding people in any class who are experiencing arthritis.
New class series starts Nov. 24th – Learn more!Alka Kaminer is YFA’s Teacher of the Month
Alka is honored to be Yoga for Arthritis’s teacher of the Month for November 2020
Sign up for my newsletter, be the first to hear of upcoming workshops.
Subscribe Now
Combining yoga practices with medical knowledge
Yoga for Arthritis was developed at a leading research university by an interdisciplinary team of rheumatologists, psychologists, public health researchers and yoga therapists. Combining yoga practices with medical knowledge, this program offers modifications to address the unique abilities and limitations of rheumatoid and/or osteo arthritis patients. In a 7- year randomized clinical trial, program participation was associated with improved arthritis symptoms, disease biomarkers, physical fitness, psychological functioning and quality of life.
I have found Alka Kaminer’s chair yoga class so beneficial. Her exercises for all parts of the body, while sitting in a chair do work. One example: the arthritis in my hands has lessened considerably. Her classes are great. – Barbara Kleinman
I never realized how much chair yoga could be useful in my life, taking classes with Alka Kaminer has become important to me. Her classes have helped my arthritis by strengthening my muscle tone and increasing my flexibility. I look forward to every class with her. If you are looking for a way to exercise I recommend you try her chair yoga class. – Barbara Heiner
Benefits of Yoga for Arthritis instruction
- Customize yoga to the needs and limitations of each student
- Use breath and mental focus components for mental health and coping skills
- Provide supportive social connections to encourage re-framing of the disease Low/no impact
- Optimize Range of Movement
- Increase flexibility
- Increase muscle strength and stability
- Increase balance
- Improve bone density
YFA Teachers
YFA teachers are inspired to improve the lives of people with arthritis. They have trained with YFA beyond the Yoga Alliance industry standard. Many are YFA Certified teachers who have completed a second training and a mentorship.
Articles and Resources
Yoga Benefits for Arthritis – from the Arthritis Foundation
Practicing yoga regularly can reduce pain, increase flexibility, improve function and lower stress.