Move with Ease: Yoga Modifications for Joint Support and Pain Relief
For the millions of people living with arthritis, daily movement can feel like a challenge—but it doesn’t have to be. Yoga offers a gentle, empowering way to reconnect with your body, ease discomfort, and build strength without strain. Whether you're new to yoga or looking to adapt your practice to better support your joints, there are simple modifications and supportive tools that can help you move with confidence and care.
May is Arthritis Awareness Month, and at Soul Society Yoga, we’re shining a light on how yoga can be a powerful tool for managing joint pain, increasing mobility, and building confidence in movement—no matter your age or experience level.
How Yoga Supports Joint Health
Yoga isn't just about flexibility—it's about moving mindfully, listening to your body, and creating space where there was once tension. For those living with arthritis or joint sensitivity, yoga offers a way to strengthen supporting muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion, all while calming the nervous system.
Studies have shown that regular yoga practice can reduce joint stiffness and pain, especially when combined with breath awareness and gentle movement. More importantly, yoga gives you permission to move at your own pace, and find what feels good for you.
Common Modifications for Joint-Friendly Yoga
We understand that everyone's body is different, which is why our instructors regularly offer modifications to make practice more accessible and supportive. Here are some of the most common joint-friendly props and practices:
Wrist wedges or folded blankets to ease pressure in tabletop or downward dog.
Bolsters and blocks to bring the ground closer and reduce joint strain.
Chair yoga for those who need more stability or struggle getting up and down from the floor.
Blankets under knees or hips for extra cushioning and joint protection.
These simple changes can make a huge difference in how safe and supported you feel in class.
Teacher Tips for Listening to Your Body
At Soul Society, all of our yoga instructors are trained to create a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for everyone—including those living with arthritis. Whether you're in a gentle class or a more active flow, our teachers are equipped to offer modifications and guidance to help you move with confidence.
One of our beloved instructors, Debra Kelly, brings a wealth of knowledge to this approach. Debra teaches both Chair Yoga and Ayurveda-based practices, and she is especially passionate about meeting students where they are. She often reminds her students that "warm-ups are extremely important for arthritis sufferers" to safely prepare the body for movement. With over 20 years of experience, Debra specializes in breath-guided movement, energy awareness, and adapting postures to fit each unique body.
Her heart-centered, accessible teaching style ensures that everyone—from beginners to long-time yogis—feels supported on their path to wellness.
Our instructors are trained to help you find what works for your body, not someone else’s. Some of our favorite reminders for those navigating joint pain:
Start slow and notice how each pose feels — there is no rush.
Use props early and often — they’re tools of empowerment, not signs of weakness.
Breathe through discomfort, not pain — sensation is normal, sharpness is not.
Ask questions! We love helping you find your best variation.
Try a Joint-Friendly Class at Soul Society Yoga Studio
If you're curious about how yoga can support your joint health or you're working through arthritis, we invite you to join us for one of our slower-paced, prop-supported classes:
Unheated Gentle Yoga: Tuesday–Thursday at 11:00 AM & Saturdays at 9:30 AM
Yin 75 (Unheated): Monday & Friday at 11:00 AM
Stop by and let us show you how props can support your practice. Our instructors are happy to demo wrist wedges, bolsters, chairs, and more to help you feel confident and safe on the mat.
Breathe easy. Move with ease. You belong here. Explore our classes
Finding Strength in Stillness
Living with arthritis doesn’t mean you have to give up movement—it means finding the right kind of movement. At Soul Society, we believe yoga is for every body, and with the right support, props, and guidance, you can build strength, ease discomfort, and rediscover joy in the way you move.
Whether you're managing joint pain or simply looking for a more mindful way to care for your body, know that you’re not alone. Our community is here to support you every step (and stretch) of the way.
Come as you are. Move how you need. And know that healing starts with one breath at a time.