Yoga for Seniors

As we age we naturally loose a certain amount of strength and flexibility, especially as we also begin to move less.  With our senior population  enjoying a longer and more active lifestyle well into their retirement years, the desire to remain physically and mentally active has become more important.

Chair Yoga is one of the gentlest forms of yoga available. Poses are done seated on the chair or the chair is used for support during standing and balance poses. At times the wall may also be used for support.  Use of the chair allows for greater stability to help participants feel supported and safe as they move in/out of each pose.
 
Poses are modified so that even those with health restrictions, decreased range of motion and physical limitations can perform versions of twists, hip stretches, forward bends and mild backbends that will provide the same benefits from a traditional yoga practice including improved muscle tone, better breathing habits, reduction of stress and improved sleep.

Benefits for starting or continuing a yoga practice for seniors:

1. Physical balance  is improved which results in fewer falls, sprains and breaking of bones.  Yoga  tones muscles, builds strength and confidence.
2. Breathing exercises help to build focus and moves you from short, chest breathing to deep from your belly breathing.  The deeper you breathe reduces stress and anxiety and brings a sense of calmness to your day which can positively affect your decision making.
3. Balances your mood by incorporating deep intentional breathing while meditation and movement create an overall feeling of well being and joy.
4. Improves the start and end of your day! Yoga poses can both energize and relax. Your yoga practice can be comprised of poses that bring energy to start your day or can be structured to allow for relaxation to aid in better sleep.
5. Builds friendships!  By joining a yoga class with other seniors you build your social circle.
6. Yoga requires little to no special equipment or fancy clothes!
7. Yoga can be done at any age, body size, or level of physical activity.

 
It's never too early, or too late, to start!  Not sure if yoga is for you, or how to start your practice, contact me and we can chat!