Yoga and Stroke Recovery: Abigail Atkinson's Inspiring Journey
Episode Overview
Abigail shares the transformative impact of integrating 'yoga snacks' into her therapy routine Her experience highlights the critical role of self-trust and proactive self-advocacy in seeking immediate medical attention Abigail's commitment to adaptive yoga instruction underscores the transformative potential of embracing a new identity and finding purpose beyond physical limitations The episode encapsulates a message of encouragement, resilience, and post-traumatic growth, offering invaluable support and inspiration to stroke survivors and their caregivers Abigail's unwavering optimism and advocacy for inclusive and accessible yoga practice resonate deeply, shedding light on the multifaceted aspects of stroke recovery and the remarkable capacity for personal transformation
I found actually that when I did what I call them little yoga snacks, I would take the yoga snacks where I would do some of my therapy stuff. And then I would do that several times a day. But part of that was, yeah, showing up every single day and working really hard.
Imagine being in the middle of teaching a yoga class and suddenly realizing something is terribly wrong. That's exactly what happened to Abigail Atkinson, who experienced a vertebral artery dissection that led to a stroke while she was guiding her students through poses. In this episode of 'Recovery After Stroke', host Bill Gasiamis sits down with Abigail to unpack her incredible story of recovery and resilience. Abigail's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
She shares how her disciplined yoga practice became a cornerstone of her rehabilitation, introducing 'yoga snacks'—short, frequent yoga sessions—into her daily routine. These mini sessions, combined with traditional therapy exercises, played a crucial role in her recovery, showing the power of consistency and dedication. One of the standout moments in Abigail's story is her emphasis on self-trust and the importance of listening to one's body.
She recounts the pivotal decision to seek immediate medical attention, a choice that undoubtedly saved her life. Her story underscores the need for proactive self-advocacy in health crises. Post-stroke, Abigail has embraced a new identity as an adaptive yoga instructor, advocating for inclusive and accessible yoga practices. Her commitment to making yoga available to everyone, regardless of physical limitations, highlights the universal benefits of this ancient practice.
This episode is a treasure trove of encouragement and practical advice for stroke survivors and their caregivers. Abigail's unwavering optimism and profound insights offer a beacon of hope, illustrating the remarkable capacity for personal transformation even in the face of daunting challenges.