Lida Husik

Foundations and Advanced Program Graduate
C-IAYT Yoga Therapist
Location: Portland, OR
Website: www.bendintheriveryogatherapy.com
Yoga Therapy Case Study: Autism Spectrum Disorder

“Since starting the Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy Program, I have deepened my own practice and my love and reverence for yoga. I have also connected with a community that I know will support me for the rest of my life. In April of 2021, I completed all requirements for IAYT certification, and I am looking forward to a long career in helping people in need.

When I applied to the program, I was at a crossroads in my life. I saw an ad on Facebook, spoke to a student in the program, and checked out a video of Brandt teaching. I knew immediately that this was the school for me, and I have been so happy with the education I received. Brandt’s teaching style allows for all things: practicality, spirituality, and meeting the student where they are. Brandt is extremely inclusive, non-judgemental, and an excellent communicator of complex material. For me, this is what sets Breathing Deeply apart from other schools. In addition to teaching the school’s unique and versatile yoga therapy approach, the program includes practical business classes that help the student create their path forward.

In the practicum, I have worked with patients at a nursing home in extreme illness and end stages of life. I am not ‘curing’ anyone, but I am reaching people on a deeper level through practices of meditation and surrender. I feel honored to be able to help in this way. I also have adult clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This work requires a unique skill set, which I am sharpening more and more, as I both learn from and teach my clients.

Being in the practicum was a great help—not only because of the detailed suggestions and feedback that Brandt provides—but also because of the community of support of my fellow students. I know that going forward, I will still be able to check in and get guidance when needed.

I came into the program with a big story of childhood mother loss and chronic pain. I have been given the tools to ease and heal myself. It’s an exponential process, and I feel grateful to be on the journey with everyone at Breathing Deeply.

The teaching tools I acquired from the program have enlivened and refined my approach with clients. I am so much more aware of safety in the poses, and the value of pranayama and spiritual teachings. I am now able to treat the whole person, physically, spiritually, and emotionally, and I am more confident in the seat of the teacher. I have so many resources to choose from that I never feel at a loss about what direction to go in.

I would recommend this program highly to anyone interested in working towards a goal that is challenging and rewarding. It’s a whole lot of fun, a whole lot of work, and a whole lot of love.”