Local Yoga Studio Takes Adaptive Approach to Exercise for Those Living with Chronic Illness
By Michelle Talsma Everson -
Wednesday Apr 21, 2021
Individuals with chronic illness and injury often struggle with the ability to enjoy daily activities. Ashley Sayaloune is working to create yoga programs and classes to make exercise and well-being more accessible in her new studio, Modified Movement.
“I am extremely passionate about helping people feel empowered to live without feeling limited by their bodies, illnesses or a new phase of life,†she says.
She designed Modified Movement classes with the deeper intention toward healing the limitations that limit a person’s mobility and activity. No experience needed, as Sayaloune works with each client to make sure that they are not going to exercises or poses that are beyond their current skill level or capabilities. The studio offers 60-minute weekday drop-in classes, a five-pack bundle on 60-minute classes at a special price, and 90-minute weekend drop-in classes.
While teaching classes and laying out the plan for creating her own studio, Sayaloune realized how unique her method of teaching was. As the sole educator at Modified Movement, she knew she needed to be adaptive herself to help her clients with all of their well-being needs and goals.
“There are many types of yoga and studios all over the Valley, but very few offer classes that offer complete support for injuries and illnesses,†Sayaloune shares.
Sayaloune began teaching classes for public and private clients nearly seven years ago, and shares that she noticed many of her new clients had limitations that made it difficult for them to take part in classes. It became her goal to change her teachings to not only empower them in class but improve their movement to get back to the activities they enjoyed.
“My dream is to offer new and different condition-focused classes moving forward, helping as many Phoenicians as possible. I would like to offer free classes to those struggling with cancer and the Valley’s first responders,†Sayaloune shares, adding that she would like to add special classes for cancer patients and first responders later this year.
Those interested in Modified Movement can join the grand opening celebration on May 15 from 4 - 6 p.m. To RSVP, please visit https://forms.gle/XtdMHwVAu32bfwsW8.
For more information, visit Modified Movement at http://www.modifymymovement.com. To keep up with the latest news and updates, follow on Facebook at @modifymymovement and Instagram at @modifiedmovement.