Yoga and Cystic Fibrosis

The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj," meaning "to yoke" or "to unite." This reflects yoga's fundamental purpose—to unite the individual consciousness with universal consciousness, bringing harmony between mind, body, and spirit. When practitioners say they're "practicing yoga," they're literally engaging in a discipline designed to create union and wholeness within themselves.

Benefits of Yoga for Individuals with Cystic Fibrosis

• Improved Respiratory Function: Yoga emphasizes deep breathing techniques, which can help enhance lung function and capacity.

• Stress Reduction: The practice of yoga promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

• Enhanced Physical Fitness: Yoga can improve flexibility, strength, and endurance, contributing to better overall physical health.

• Increased Mindfulness: Practicing yoga encourages mindfulness, helping individuals cope with chronic illness and its challenges.

• Improved Quality of Life: Regular yoga practice can lead to a better quality of life by promoting emotional well-being and physical health.

Considerations for Practicing Yoga with Cystic Fibrosis

• Consult Healthcare Providers: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially for individuals with CF.

• Tailored Practices: Choose yoga practices that are gentle and accommodate individual health needs, avoiding overly strenuous poses.

• Focus on Breathing: Emphasize breathing exercises that can aid in lung function and relaxation.

• Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any symptoms during practice and adjust accordingly.

• Incorporate Other Treatments: Yoga should complement, not replace, existing CF treatments and therapies.

Cystic Fibrosis and Yoga Resources:

Yoga Resources for People with CF:

• CF Yogi:

  A virtual yoga studio specifically for the CF community, offering online classes led by instructors with CF experience. 

  • Classes are designed to include multiple limbs of yoga (asana, pranayama, etc.) and incorporate themes from the Yamas & Niyamas. 

  • They offer both on-demand videos and weekly livestreamed classes. 

  • All classes, videos, and events are free to people with CF and their families. 

• BreatheStrong CF:

  Provides tools, resources, and inspiration to help individuals with CF and their families live fuller, healthier lives. 

  • Offers exercise grants to help individuals with CF engage in physical activities. 

• "Yoga for CF" DVD:

  Created by Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters in Norfolk, Va. 

  • To get the DVD, email resources@cff.org with the title of the DVD, the quantity, and your contact information. 

• Yoga for Better Breathing:

  A new course for people with Cystic Fibrosis, with access to a closed Beam group for additional resources and support. 

• Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF):

  • Offers resources and information on managing CF. 

  • The CFF website provides information on staying active with CF. 

• Cystic Fibrosis Research Institute (CFRI):

  • Offers wellness classes for the CF community, open to individuals with CF, as well as parents, spouses, partners, and siblings of those with CF. 

  • These classes aim to improve the physical and emotional health of those with CF and their family members. 

• NIHR ARC East of England:

  A trial investigating the effects of online yoga classes for people with CF. 

• Royal Brompton Hospital:

  Research on online yoga for people with cystic fibrosis.