Sarah, 40, who has physical disabilities and is autistic and neurodivergent has found that Park Yoga greatly boosts her wellbeing…
“As an autistic person (diagnosed just 3 years ago), I find being in nature incredibly regulating for my nervous system. Practising yoga surrounded by birdsong, trees, and the feel of the grass beneath me creates a really unique and grounding experience which is why I’ve been attending Park Yoga Southampton for the past 4 years.
I have several complex health conditions, including hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS), and Complex PTSD. Some people are sceptical about those with EDS doing yoga because of joint problems and hypermobility. But for me, yoga has improved my joint stability by enhancing my interoception and proprioception. My posture’s improved too, and I’ve found it really helpful for both pain and stress management. Park Yoga has helped me so much and I really enjoy it too.
Yoga became a vital coping tool for me during one of the most challenging times in my life while dealing with severe pain from MALS. Two years ago, when I was writing my MSc dissertation, my pain levels were so severe I had to lie on the floor in Sphinx pose just to read academic papers. Yoga helped me get through that.”
If you’re concerned that yoga might worsen your pain, I’d say give it a try—but speak to your doctor first if you have any underlying medical conditions. The key is to listen to your body, take things gently, and don’t push beyond your limits. What I love about Park Yoga is that some people choose to just lie down and relax for the hour—you don’t have to do all the poses.
There’s a wide range of abilities at Park Yoga. Some people are experienced yogis, and others are complete beginners. That’s what makes it so welcoming and inclusive—it’s accessible to everyone.
I’m on disability benefits as I can only do a limited amount of paid work and can’t always afford paid yoga classes. Park Yoga has given me the chance to keep practicing, even when money is tight. I’m so thankful for that.”
Park Yoga is suitable for all physical levels and abilities, and no experience is necessary – last year 30% of our participants had never tried yoga before. There’s no need to book, just turn up with a mat (or towel or blanket) and enjoy the session. Visit our venue page to find your closest Park Yoga location.