Introduced in England in 2002, the Special Yoga methodology contributes to the development of the potential of children with special needs.
THE INTENTION OF SPECIAL YOGA FOR PHILOU
Keeping the young polyimpaired person connected to their heart, their body and to a space of calm, softness, gentleness, and love within them are the intentions behind the creation of the Special Yoga practices at Philou. And above all, to allow them to benefit from yoga sessions adapted to their bodies and their needs.
HEART-TO-HEART YOGA
Yoga means union. nion of all aspects of one’s being – physical, energetic, emotional, mental and spiritual – in a harmonious and balanced whole. The yoga practices at Centre Philou also pursue this path thanks to a simple structure during which the accompanying partner is guided by a certified yoga and Special Yoga instructor. We like to call them heart-to-heart yoga sessions, between the heart of the instructor, the accompanying partner and the polyimpaired person.
“From the very first moments of exploring this practice with the Philous, I opened my heart wide, let myself be carried away and… they showed me the way. They are now my invaluable guides for every Special Yoga session.”
– Christine Levrot, Special Yoga instructor
THE BENEFITS
In addition to creating space in the body and bringing a presence to it, several benefits have been noted in our Philousas a result of Special Yoga practices. These include deep relaxation, reduced anxiety, emotional regulation, greater calm and focus.
THE STRUCTURE OF THE PRACTICES
Even if Special Yoga practices are created and directed towards the polyimpaired person, the accompanying partner is invited to practice and benefit from their effects.
1
We begin by establishing the heart-to-heart connection through a short meditation and by creating an intention for the practice.
2
This is followed by exercises intended to bring presence to the polyimpaired person’s body parts, or body awareness, through breathing exercises that enable contact with the breath and exercises to anchor and warm up.
3
Mentally calmed and anchored in the present, the polyimpaired person is ready to practice physical exercises, which we adapt to their needs and condition.
4
The session ends with a moment of relaxation followed by a chant/mantra that closes the 1-hour practice.
