The following are classic yoga poses that Eric Small, under the guidance of B.K.S. Iyengar, adapted for people with disabilities caused by MS. Many of these postures would also be appropriate for the elderly or for people suffering from other conditions, such as arthritis. The benefits listed are those traditionally ascribed to the poses.

     Practice the poses at your own pace, never forcing or straining. Remember that the goal is to enjoy the practice, not to achieve a particular posture. Hold each pose for 10 to 20 long, deep breaths, then release and move with awareness to the next posture.

Seated Forward Bend
4) Forward bends release tension in the lower back and are beneficial for the bowels and digestive system. They are adapted here for people who can’t get down on the floor. (Note: When asked to pick up your leg, always place your hands under your knee to retain the flexibility of the muscles in the grain.)

     Sit on one chair, with another chair facing you. Picking up your legs with your hands, stretch your legs out across the seats of both chairs. Bending forward at the hips, rest your hands on top of the opposite chair back. Spread your fingers. Do not grip.

Wheelchair Variation
5) With the wheelchair locked and the safety belt fastened around the waist, place your hands firmly on the seat of a folding chair and push it away from you (If you are extremely stiff, place your hands on the chair back.) Now push he chair diagonally, first away from the right knee, then away from the left, to get a cross stretch.