Purpose Despite the evidence that yoga is beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis (MS),substantial in-depth qualitative studies of yoga and MS, in particular individualized yoga programmes (IYP), are lacking. The aims of this paper are a) to conduct a case study on an IYP for one participant with MS in terms of their experience of yoga and how yoga affects their particular symptoms of MS and b) to better understand the unique and changing needs of someone with MS in the context of an IYP. Design and Method A qualitative case study design with data collected via a participant diary completed over the 24 week duration of IYP; an exit interview after the final IYP session, and weekly records completed by the yoga teacher. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Over the course of the IYP the female participant experienced an increased awareness of negative thoughts and feelings about MS and how it affected them and their body. As the programme progressed she began to work through these feelings and by the end of the programme reported experiencing improvements in muscle tone, strength,balance, psychological well-being and confidence. Conclusion Our findings highlight the importance of a programme individualized to meet the complex health and psychological needs of an individual with MS. |