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Exercising Postpartum: Where to Start (and What Actually Matters
Postpartum exercise guidance from a Victoria, BC Athletic Therapist & yoga therapist. Rebuild strength safely with what actually matters after baby.
Julia Cole
May 52 min read


Should You Stop Exercising When You Have Pain?
Feeling pain during your workout and wondering if you should stop? Not always. As an Athletic Therapist in Victoria, BC, I explain the difference between pain you can work through and pain you shouldn't ignore — plus how to modify exercises safely so you keep moving without making things worse.
Julia Cole
May 41 min read


Can Poor Breathing Cause Neck and Low Back Pain?
Struggling with neck or low back pain and can't figure out why? Your breathing might be the missing piece. As an Athletic Therapist in Victoria, BC, I explain how poor breathing patterns create tension in your neck and lower back, what proper diaphragmatic breathing looks like, and simple techniques to start breathing better — and feeling better — today.
Julia Cole
May 42 min read


Why Does My Low Back Feel Tight All the Time? (And What Actually Helps)
Does your low back feel tight no matter how much you stretch? The problem might not be your back at all. As an Athletic Therapist in Victoria, BC, I explain why your low back feels tight all the time, what muscles are actually driving the tension, and why stretching alone rarely fixes it — plus what actually helps for lasting relief.
Julia Cole
May 23 min read


Why Your Breathing Mechanics May Be Causing Neck and Low Back Tension
Your neck and low back tension might start with how you breathe. As an Athletic Therapist and yoga therapist in Victoria, BC, I break down how faulty breathing mechanics overload your neck and lower back muscles, why chest breathing creates a chain reaction of tension, and how to retrain your diaphragm for better posture, less pain, and more efficient movement.
Julia Cole
Apr 284 min read


Strength Training After Injury: Why It’s Essential for Long-Term Recovery
Recovering from an injury and wondering when to get back to strength training? Rest alone won't rebuild resilience. As an Athletic Therapist in Victoria, BC, I explain why progressive strength training is essential for long-term recovery, how it prevents re-injury, and when and how to safely load your body again after setbacks.
Julia Cole
Apr 284 min read


Strength Training: The Key to Injury Prevention and Enhanced Sport Performance
Strength training is often associated with building muscle mass and improving aesthetics, but its benefits extend far beyond the gym. For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, strength training is a critical component of a well-rounded regimen, crucial for preventing injuries and enhancing sport performance. Let’s delve into how strength training should be an integral part of your routine. The Impact of Strength Training on Sport Performance 1. Increased Power and Explosiveness
Julia Cole
Aug 16, 20242 min read


Shift from a Pain to a Wellness Mindset in Physical Rehabilitation
As a yoga/Athletic Therapist and Strength and Conditioning specialist, I have witnessed countless individuals embark on their journey of physical rehabilitation with a mindset solely focused on alleviating pain. While acknowledging and understanding pain is a crucial aspect of the healing process, I've come to realize that adopting a wellness mindset can be profoundly transformative in facilitating recovery and restoring overall well-being. In this blog post, I'll explore the
Julia Cole
Mar 15, 20242 min read


Power of Self-Compassion
As an Athletic Therapist that uses Yoga when helping people navigate the challenging journey of pain and injury, I've come to understand that one of the most powerful tools we can offer our clients is the practice of self-compassion. The role of self-compassion in pain management cannot be overstated, and in this blog post, I'd like to explore its significance and provide an evidence-based self-compassion practice. The Science Behind Self-Compassion Recent research has shed l
Julia Cole
Jan 26, 20242 min read


Let Go of the All-or-Nothing Mindset
In the not-so-distant past, my identity was entwined with a determined, type A personality, and the all-or-nothing mindset that came with it. While this approach propelled me to high achievements, the years brought a realization of the value of gentleness and self-compassion. However, it wasn't until I became a mom that I truly grasped the necessity of shedding the all-or-nothing mindset, especially concerning self-care and exercise. In this blog post, I'll share my personal
Julia Cole
Jan 24, 20242 min read


Finding Serenity in the Chaos: A Busy Mom's Journey to Rest, Recharge, and Restore
In the whirlwind of life as a working mom to a lively 1.5-year-old and a stepmom to an 11-year-old and 14-year-old, the current season holds a distinct theme for me – it's all about rest, recharge, and restoration. Navigating through a year and a half of chronic sleep deprivation with a little one has made every moment of rest and sleep feel like an exquisite luxury. In this blog post, I want to share my personal journey of prioritizing rest and embracing various yoga techniq
Julia Cole
Jan 4, 20243 min read


Yoga Nidra for Relaxation and Healing
In the fast-paced world we live in, finding moments of tranquility and inner peace is essential for maintaining overall well-being. One practice that has gained significant recognition for its profound relaxation and healing benefits is Yoga Nidra. I have personally benefitted greatly from this practice especially during times of turmoil and increased stress in my life. I have also prescribed it to countless clients in the last 10 years. Often referred to as "yogic sleep" or
Julia Cole
Jan 3, 20243 min read


Importance of a Clear Vision in Pain Management and Injury Rehabilitation
As an Athletic Therapist and Yoga Instructor, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a clear vision in the realm of pain management and injury rehabilitation. Much like athletes preparing for a competition, individuals seeking relief from pain and recovery from injuries can benefit immensely from setting a well-defined vision. This vision becomes the foundation guiding their actions and mindset towards a more purposeful and effective healing journey. All too oft
Julia Cole
Aug 5, 20232 min read


Yoga Breathing Technique for Pain Relief: A Step-by-Step Guide
In this post we'll explore a yoga breathing technique known as "Pranayama" that can help in pain relief and promote a sense of calm and well-being. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, an acute injury or looking for holistic methods to supplement your treatment, this step-by-step guide will help you harness the therapeutic power of your breath. As an Athletic Therapist using yoga techniques in my practice I typically recommend doing breath work right before doing home e
Julia Cole
Jul 31, 20232 min read


5 Tips for Integrating Yoga Poses in Your Physical Therapy
Welcome to a guide on how yoga asanas (poses) can elevate your physical therapy experience. As an athletic therapist, I understand that rehabilitation is a personalized and holistic process, and incorporating yoga asanas can add immense value to your healing journey. In this blog post, I will share five tips (following principles of rehabilitation) to integrate yoga asanas into your physical therapy sessions. Tip 1: Personalized Yoga Poses for Tailored Care In physical therap
Julia Cole
Jul 26, 20233 min read


Yoga Poses for Low Back Pain: An Athletic Therapist's Guide to Relief
As an Athletic Therapist, I understand the challenges that low back pain can pose to your daily life. If you're seeking a natural and effective way to alleviate discomfort and promote a healthier back try these poses. Read our previous blog if you want to understand the benefits of movement for pain. In this blog post, I'll share my insights into specific yoga poses you can try to provide relief for your low back pain. As always though listen to your body and modify as needed
Julia Cole
Jul 22, 20233 min read


The Vital Role of Movement in Injury Recovery
Experiencing an injury can be a setback, both physically and mentally. While rest and recovery are crucial, it is equally important to recognize the immense value of movement in the healing process. In this blog post, I will explore why movement plays a vital role in injury recovery and how it empowers individuals to regain strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. Restoring Range of Motion and Flexibility: After an injury, immobility can lead to joint stiffness and musc
Julia Cole
Jul 18, 20232 min read


Embracing Healing: Shifting from Fight-or-Flight to Rest-and-Restore
Living with chronic pain can be an all-encompassing battle that affects every aspect of our lives. However, what if there was a way to find relief by simply changing our approach to pain? In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of transitioning our bodies from the fight-or-flight mode to a state of rest and restoration, ultimately fostering a gentle and nurturing approach to chronic pain management. Understanding the Fight-or-Flight Response: When we experience
Julia Cole
Jul 18, 20231 min read


Harnessing the Healing Power of Yoga: Alleviating Pain and Restoring Well-being
In this article, we explore the transformative potential of yoga as a holistic approach to managing pain and restoring well-being for...
Julia Cole
Jul 18, 20233 min read
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