Therapeutic yoga can encompass multiple forms of yoga and is most often used in private or small group classes. Hands on healing is a key component of therapeutic yoga and is generally used in conjunction with elements of yin, restorative and gentle practices. This type of yoga is often used with patients that have chronic illnesses, are fighting cancer or have other limitations. The practice can also focus almost solely on breath work and meditation and mindfulness as opposed to physical poses. The benefits of therapeutic yoga are more often being recognized in traditional western medical world as well.