This applies even if the individual isnt enrolled in the VA system.
This is where the potential of alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, and tai chi comes into play.
The answer was a heartening and optimistic “yes.”
Verywell / Alison Czinkota
Ive noticed my legs are much stronger and I have very little back trouble.
Its a seemingly small detail that can make all the difference to the longevity of these programs.
According to Okerlin, one of the best things about yoga is its functional adaptability.
Yoga can be modified for anything; it doesnt matter what limbs you’re missing.
A guy walked in without any hands, so we did things on his forearms.
Yoga is also surprisingly well-suited to veterans due to the regimented nature of the practice.
A guy walked in without any hands, so we did things on his forearms.
When youre in the military youre trained to shoot a weapon.
One of the main things about shooting a weapon is breath control, so yoga makes perfect sense.
Environment, lighting, sound…need to be pretty calm, in my book, says Okerlin.
Even the wrong music choice can have a triggering effect.
Deeply rooted trauma is extremely difficult to overcome, especially when some of that trauma is rooted in shame.
They put themselves in harm’s way so that we didnt have to.
And veterans with PTSD may feel this almost every day.
It also helps us to view things in a non-judgmental way with openness and acceptance.
It also helps us to view things in a non-judgmental way with openness and acceptance.
And theres plenty of research to support these statements.
After 16 weeks, all participants reported a significant decrease in symptoms of PTSD.
The challenge lies in broadening awareness of how well these therapies work and expanding accessibility to treatment programs.
Originally a style of fighting, tai chi has evolved into a form of moving meditation.
And similar to yoga, it involves a system of sequential movements that promote physical fitness and mental resilience.
A 2019 study published inNaturecompared tai chi and conventional aerobic exercise in the context of neuroplasticity.
Many of Guos program participants have reported significant positive improvements in their overall health and mental outlook.
Ive noticed my legs are much stronger and I have very little back trouble.
Others even reported less reliance on prescription pain medications.
Check out the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairswebsitefor programs happening in your area.
And as always, if you need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
January 13, 2023.
2020;58(S2):S125-S132.
2018;19(7):797-806. doi:10.1016/j.jpain.2018.02.012
Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016.
U.S. Government Publishing Office.
