Do You Need Yoga Therapy or Yoga Instruction? Here's How to Choose the Right Path for You
Yoga is a powerful tool for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being—but not all yoga is created equal. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you’d benefit more from yoga therapy or a traditional yoga class, you’re not alone.
Both yoga instruction and yoga therapy offer profound benefits, but the key difference lies in intent and individualization. Here’s how to know which path is right for you—and how to choose wisely.
What Is Yoga Instruction?
Yoga instruction typically refers to the general classes you find at studios, gyms, or online platforms. These sessions are often:
Group-based
Focused on physical fitness, flexibility, and stress reduction
Sequenced to guide the class through a flowing practice (e.g., vinyasa, hatha, yin)
These classes are great if:
You’re looking to build strength and mobility
You want to manage everyday stress
You enjoy practicing in a group setting
You don’t have specific injuries or health concerns
Yoga instruction is best for general wellness.
What Is Yoga Therapy?
Yoga therapy is a personalized, often one-on-one approach rooted in the therapeutic application of yogic tools—like movement, breathwork, meditation, and lifestyle practices—to address specific physical, mental, or emotional health conditions.
A certified yoga therapist will:
Perform an intake assessment to understand your health history and goals
Design a custom practice based on your unique needs
Coordinate with other healthcare providers if needed
Progress at a pace that’s safe and sustainable
Yoga therapy is ideal if:
You’re recovering from an injury or surgery
You’re dealing with chronic pain, illness, or limited mobility
You’re struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety or depression
You want a deeply personalized practice for healing and integration
Yoga therapy is best for targeted healing and transformation.
Yoga Instruction vs. Yoga Therapy: Key Differences
FeatureYoga InstructionYoga TherapyFormatGroup-basedOne-on-one or small groupFocusGeneral wellness, fitness, flowSpecific condition or life challengePersonalizationMinimalHighly personalizedTeacher’s training200–500 hrs (RYT)800+ hrs with therapeutic focusIdeal forHealthy individualsThose seeking support or recovery
Questions to Ask Yourself
To help guide your decision, ask yourself:
Am I looking for general fitness or targeted healing?
Do I have any medical conditions or limitations?
Would I feel more comfortable in a group or private setting?
Do I want a consistent routine or a personalized plan?
Am I looking to transform something specific in my life?
If you're dealing with a specific physical or emotional challenge, yoga therapy may be the most effective and compassionate path. If you're healthy and want to stay that way through movement and mindfulness, a yoga class may be just what you need.
How to Choose the Right Practitioner
For Yoga Instruction:
Look for a certified RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher)
Try different styles to find what resonates (e.g., vinyasa, restorative, kundalini)
Ask about class levels and modifications
For Yoga Therapy:
Seek a certified yoga therapist (C-IAYT)
Ask about their experience with your specific concern
Ensure they conduct an initial assessment or intake
In Summary
Yoga instruction and yoga therapy both serve meaningful purposes. One is not “better” than the other—they’re simply different tools for different needs. Think of yoga instruction as a broad-spectrum wellness practice, and yoga therapy as a laser-focused healing modality.
When in doubt, consider starting with a consultation. Many yoga therapists or experienced instructors can help guide you to the most appropriate path.
Your body, your mind, and your life are unique—your yoga practice should be too.