Pelvic Yoga Therapy for the Whole Woman
A Professional Guide
Focusing on women’s pelvic health through yoga therapy, this evidence-based resource covers the intersections of biomechanics, self-study through yoga philosophy, emotional resilience, pain science and dynamic strategies for pelvic embodiment.
Integrating pedagogical frameworks that differentiate yoga therapy from pelvic floor physical therapy, the book demonstrates how they can work together by including somatic education and case studies. It also covers breath patterns, mental constructs and conditioning, and baseline body awareness - taking the practitioner through the journey of self-assessment, building the therapeutic relationship and ongoing embodied practice.
Looking at the individual rather than pelvic health as a sole diagnosis, Yoga Therapy for the Whole Woman is an invaluable guide for yoga teachers, yoga therapists, movement and fitness professionals and healthcare professionals working with women with pelvic floor challenges.
The title perfectly describes this intelligent and cohesive yoga therapy approach to pelvic health. Cheri artfully combines modern science, somatic exploration and the deeper aspects of yoga in a comprehensive program that surpasses mere physical relief. Her step-by-step guidelines also gently lead to empowerment and deep inner healing.
Written with compassion, gentleness, nuance, academic rigor, and through her own practices of embodiment, Cheri has written a one of a kind book on the intersection between pelvic health and yoga therapy that empowers bodily autonomy, consent and trauma-informed practices. This is a comprehensive guide for yoga therapists and healing professionals and fills a much needed gap in our society’s understanding of the unique and sensitive needs of women’s health. A truly affirming and breath-taking guide for all women seeking embodied wisdom and on the journey of learning that their lived experience is their greatest teacher.
Designed for yoga therapists, Ryba’s brilliant text is a must-read for ALL clinicians who interact with humans with a pelvic floor to embrace, engage, and normalize the core of our being in a biopsychosocial-spiritual way. Knowing is not enough; Ryba brings the felt experience of embodied connection to the pelvic floor.
Pelvic Yoga Therapy for the Whole Woman is a remarkable book that has the potential to change the landscape of women’s pelvic health. It seamlessly bridges the ancient wisdom of Yoga with modern holistic healthcare. Physical Therapists, Medical Doctors, Yoga Therapists and other healthcare professionals will learn something new and have realizations about the connection between body, mind, breath and personality in an entirely new way after reading this book.
Cheri Dostal Ryba is a C-IAYT yoga therapist and Franklin Method Movement Educator with 20 years experience in teaching yoga, dance, corrective exercise and personal training. Mentoring yoga teachers since 2010, she currently serves as co-director and faculty of AlcheMe Yoga Therapy Training based in Irvine, CA and online. In 2018, she launched an online program for foundational pelvic health embodiment. She lives in California with her family and serves clients online globally. To enroll in training, online programs, or work together, visit www.cheridostal.com
Part One - Why yoga therapy for pelvic health? 1. The Role of a Yoga Therapist. 2. Philosophical Foundations of Yoga Therapy. 3. Body Wisdom. Part Two - Where are we? What does a pelvis require? 4. Local Anatomy. 5. Breathing, Sound and Pranayama. 6. Global Functional Relationships. 7. Insight into Pelvic Health Conditions. 8. What about Mula Bandha and Kegels? Part Three - How do we deliver pelvic yoga therapy? 9. Discovering. 10. Being. 11. Doing. Part Four - How do we source inspiration and sustain action? 12. Cultivating Commitment. 13. The Gifts of Belonging. End Notes. Appendices.
