What is Special Needs Yoga? Adaptive Yoga, Language, and Inclusion
What is Special Needs Yoga? Exploring Adaptive Yoga, Language, Accessibility & Inclusion | Episode 2
What does special needs yoga really mean, and how can the language we use help create more accessible, inclusive yoga experiences? In Episode 2 of The Adaptive Yoga Podcast, host Sophie Schnitzlein, founder of the Adaptive Yoga Resource (AYR), explores the language surrounding special needs yoga, special education, adaptive yoga, and inclusive yoga. Through personal stories and experiences teaching yoga in public schools, healthcare facilities, and community settings, Sophie examines how familiar terminology can open doors to yoga while also raising important questions about accessibility, disability, and belonging. The words we use matter. While terms like “special needs yoga” may help families, caregivers, educators, and administrators find relevant resources, they don't necessarily tell us what an individual needs to participate in a meaningful yoga practice. Sophie shares why adaptive yoga educators should look beyond diagnoses, listen to individual preferences, and create welcoming spaces where people of all abilities can experience yoga in ways that work for them.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Who Should Listen? This episode is for: Yoga teachers interested in adaptive yoga and inclusive teaching. Special education teachers and school administrators exploring accessible yoga programs. Parents, families, caregivers, and support professionals. Yoga therapists and movement educators interested in disability inclusion. Healthcare and community organizations seeking more accessible wellness offerings. Anyone curious about disability language, inclusive communication, and yoga for all abilities.
A Question to Reflect On How can we use language that helps people find the resources they need while ensuring that every person feels welcomed, respected, and included? Sophie invites listeners to stay curious, listen to individual preferences, and embrace the idea: “I don't know yet, but I'm willing to learn.”
About the Host Sophie Schnitzlein is the host of The Adaptive Yoga Podcast and founder of the Adaptive Yoga Resource. Our mission is to empower neurodiverse individuals, special educators, parents, and yoga instructors with the knowledge and skills to experience and share Adaptive Yoga, supporting social-emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
Continue the Conversation What language do you use when talking about special needs yoga, adaptive yoga, or inclusive yoga? Has your understanding of accessibility and disability language changed over time? Share your thoughts and experiences, and help continue the conversation about making yoga accessible to all.
If this episode resonated with you, please follow or subscribe to The Adaptive Yoga Podcast, leave a review if your podcast platform supports it, and share this episode with a yoga teacher, educator, caregiver, or friend who may find it helpful. Thank you for listening and helping us create a world where yoga is truly for all minds and bodies.
