Can YOGA wreck your body?

Ok, I have to vent, but I just read an article from the NY Times titles "How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body", and it's just does not do yoga justice.

The article seems to point out all the potential and some actual injuries that people have suffered while doing yoga, but fails to mention a) the great benefits of doing yoga, b) that just because those people got hurt while in yoga class, they probably had an underlying problem that caused those issues, and c) that there is risk in anything you do.

As a chiropractor, former yoga practitioner for many years, and a fitness enthusiast I have seen my share on injuries both in and out of the office. 

When it comes to yoga, I have always advise my patients to build up slowly, listen to their bodies and stay within their skill level.  But that is my advise for just about anything they do. Sitting on a desk and typing can cause severe neck and back injuries, but I don't advise my patients to quit their jobs.  We find a way to modify their work environment, and usually do stretches while at work to prevent and alleviate problems.

Usually doing nothing is just as dangerous as doing something when it comes to exercise, so don't be dissuaded from taking action, even if it's a yoga class.  The benefits usually outweigh the risks.

Here are some local Santa Monica Yoga Studios

1.Yogis Anonymous -www.yogisanonymous.com/

2.Yoga Co. -www.yogaco.com

3. Power Yoga (Bryan Kest's) Santa Monica -www.poweryoga.com

4. Santa Monica Yoga -www.santamonicayoga.com

5. Bhakti Yoga Shala -www.bhaktiyogashala.com

6. Naam Yoga - www.naamyoga.com

7. Ellen Bain - Train With Yoga - www.ellenbainyoga.com

Dr. Eric - Your Santa Monica Chiropractor