you asked

I was in a car accident 2 years ago and have taken a couple of Pilates classes to try and help heal my body. I am wondering though if yoga would be a better choice for me and to help me overcome the whiplash I suffered? I also suffer from a stress related illness (IBS) and wonder if Yoga would help that too? I am interested in Bikram but afraid it might be too intense to begin with. Please let me know what the best route would be for me to take so I can get back to being a healthy me! - Brittany

a yogi answers

Dear Brittany,

I would definitely begin a yoga practice, and would certainly avoid Bikram, which can be a bit intense as you begin. I would probably recommend that you begin a practice outside of a hot room, particularly if you are looking to heal your body. So try to find a more neutral environment. If you haven’t practiced for very long, and are beginning to explore you may also benefit a lot from a more restorative practice. Pilates classes will also be great for your body, but the breath work in yoga will bring you the most benefit in handling stress or a stress-related illness – you will take great leaps!

- Grace, lululemon Queen St. ambassador

what is ask a yogi?

Ask a Yogi is a yoga advice column that is published on Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays. If you have a yoga question for future yoga panels, please email askanexpert@lululemon.com.