Sensation or Pain? How Do You Know?
A Therapeutic Yoga practice introduces a whole new realm of unfamiliar sensations. In the beginning, every pose is new experience, and discerning between sensation and pain can be a learning curve. We are learning how to decipher the language our body speaks, and the initial lack of familiarity requires deep listening, patience and compassion.
Over time, through mindfulness and practice, you will develop a deeper understanding of your body's signs and signals, and be able to distinguish between sensation that signifies progress and pain that calls for caution. This learning process is an integral part of the transformational journey that Therapeutic Yoga offers.
Below are some general guidelines to help discern the difference between sensation and pain.
Quality & Intensity:
Sensation: Sensations often feel like a general awareness, warmth, stretch, or engagement in a particular area. They may vary in intensity but are manageable.
Pain: Pain is often characterized by a sharper, more localized discomfort. It may be intense, stabbing, or throbbing, and it tends to grab your attention more forcefully.
Location:
Sensation: Sensations are often spread across a broader area and may be felt along the length of a muscle or throughout a joint.
Pain: Pain tends to be more pinpointed and localized to a specific spot.
Duration:
Sensation: Sensations are often transient, changing as you move or adjust within a pose. Sensations may come and go.
Pain: Pain is more persistent and tends to linger even after a change in position or movement.
Characteristics of Discomfort:
Sensation: Sensations can be described as a feeling of stretch, warmth, or the engagement of muscles. Some sensations can be uncomfortable or challenging but they are manageable.
Pain: Pain is characterized by a more negative and protective quality. It may make you instinctively want to avoid or guard against a particular movement.
Effect on Movement:
Sensation: Sensations may alter the feeling of a stretch or movement but generally don't inhibit your ability to continue or modify your practice.
Pain: Pain tends to limit or restrict movement. If a particular movement consistently causes sharp or intense pain, it's crucial to address it.
Listening to Your Body:
Sensation: Sensations are often part of the process of challenging the body as you progress through your yoga practice
Pain: Pain is the body's signal to proceed with caution. Ignoring persistent pain can lead to injury, so it's essential to pay attention and adjust accordingly.
Soreness is normal and natural after practicing.
Often times, people report soreness after classes, especially in the beginning. Experiencing soreness is a normal and often a beneficial response that can be attributed to the nature of the practice. It is important to learn how to differentiate between soreness associated with muscle engagement and the sensation of pain. Soreness is a natural part of the body's adaptation process and usually dissipates with consistent, regular practice. However, if you experience persistent or sharp pain, please let me know so that we can ensure that the practice is aligned with your individual needs and capabilities.
Transform pain with consistent, regular practice.
Approaching your yoga practice with patience and compassion is essential if you're dealing with chronic pain. Mindful movement, with the use of props for support, and consistent but gentle progression can help you reap the benefits of the practice without causing additional strain.
Prioritize relaxation to help manage stress and pain perception. If a pose is painful, be proactive in adapting or skipping it. Always practice attentive listening to your body's signs and signals. Therapeutic Yoga has the incredible potential to transform pain. By cultivating awareness and a deeper connection with our bodies, we learn to navigate discomfort with grace.
Book your next Therapeutic Yoga class with us—either in person or online—and give your body the care it deserves.
If you feel called to explore this work more deeply, I invite you to join me for the upcoming Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training. Click here to get all the details and take the next step in your journey.
