16 Jan The Difference Between Yoga and Passive Stretching (PS)

Yoga is often associated with stretching. And though they may have similarities the differences are much greater. Let us delve deeper into comparison to determine when it is the right time to do yoga and when PS is needed.

What is what?
Yoga originates in India and is less of a physical exercise; it has a meditative and spiritual core. Considered beneficial for mental health and focus, Yoga is considered by gurus as a means of calming down the fluctuation/patterns of consciousness.
Though by default, PS can bring on a state of calm and relaxation, it is considered a form of physical exercise focused on improving flexibility, range of motion, posture and mobility.

Similarities
Both yoga and PS can improve mood, engage the entire body and relieve tightness in muscles. They may even have some similar goals. But other than that, they are very different.

Differences
Poses verses Passive Stretching

Passive stretching is defined as a form of stretching where an outside force is applied to a limb. At StretchSource® passive stretching is offered through partnered assisted 1:1 stretch sessions as well as straps in our StretchTribe® group class. Benefits of passive stretching include prevention of health disease, improved posture, increased flexibility, better recovery and improved performance.

Yoga on the other hand is a culmination of poses and flows. Sometimes these positions may include active stretches or dynamic stretching, but not the same benefits or outcomes
associated with passive stretching.
Furthermore, in order to execute many of the yoga poses a certain degree of flexibility is needed. Therefore, limited flexibility can lead to injury and further physical discomforts when participating in yoga. Passive stretching on the other hand is for all levels of flexibility and mobility. The degree of stretch and intensity can be modified based on a person’s individual needs. At StretchSource® we even take customizing a step further with our trademarked Flex IQ. Click here to learn more about our Flex IQ session. (add link)

Breathing
Breathing keeps us alive. Breathing deeply in yoga is meant to create a transformation in the body and mind, to purify and cleanse them allowing one to experience a true essence.
Breathing in passive stretching is meant to create range of motion and flexibility in the muscles being contracted and elongated during breathing and to relax the nervous system so the full benefit of the stretching is experienced.

Which is right for me?
If you are needing mental clarity, to calm your mind and create personal zen then yoga is for you. However, if your muscles are tight, your joints have limited range of motion, you are struggling to do the things in life that make you happy without pain or discomfort, and you need to work on your form then passive stretching is for you. Book a stretch with us so that you can relax on a table, we can do all the work and you can continue participating in the activities that make you happy for a lifetime.