I am recently returning to yoga after more than a year absence due to having my spine fused. I thought perhaps someone may have the same condition and could suggest a class and instructor that would be knowledgeable about modified poses for spine problems. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Jen,

Welcome back to the mat. Yoga is wonderful for the spine. My husband came to Sunstone having had a fusion at C4/C5, IDET surgery on the disc at L4/L5, and rhizotomy at S1-L3 as well as L1/T12. Yoga has provided enormous relief for some of the ongoing pain he experiences. Especially the Fire series. Wood has also helped strengthen his core to better protect the back. In the beginning he needed to ask me and other teachers many questions after each class to learn how he should approach each posture to help get his back strong. I recommend you do the same. You can never ask too many questions before and after class. Feel free to email me as well. I cannot provide any answers now as I do not know where your fusion is, but I would definetly know that the yoga will be waking up many dormant muscles in your body so do not be afraid or alarmed if your back is "grouchy" in your first 10 classes : ) Pace yourself and be open to the healing that yoga can bring. All good things to you in this new year!

I am relatively new to Sunstone Yoga (42 classes now) and I can't give you advice, but I do want to welcome you back to yoga! What a great decision to return. I am confident you will get lots of support from your instructors

Elizabeth,
Thanks for the advice. My fusion is L3-4. It has been a long year and I am excited to be getting back to what I love. I've gained some weight along the way and I am ready for a change. I had thought that the Wood series would be excellent and was hesitant about the fire series. I will make sure to ask the instructor and see what modifications or advice they can give. How long did it take your husband to get back into the swing of things? I think the worst part is my inability to get up off the floor without something to pull up on. I am hoping after several classes I will become stronger and will have an easier time doing so.