By Lisa Bradford
Is Yoga for seniors a wise choice? As we age, our bodies go through numerous changes. Senior citizens often face health challenges such as arthritis, which affects the joints and decreases flexibility. Also, bone density decreases and energy levels may not be what they used to be. All of that can affect fitness levels and limit the types of exercises in which they can take part in.
High impact activities, such as jogging, might be replaced with walking or swimming. Another great activity for seniors is Yoga training. The gentle postures (asanas) and slow, centered movements of Hatha Yoga are the perfect way to loosen tight joints and relieve pain. Low impact exercise (and the right type of exercises) is crucial for staying healthy – not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well.
Some people might be a bit hesitant about taking up Yoga, especially if they have never practiced it before or if it has been a long time since they last practiced asana, pranayama or meditation. Seniors might be unsure of their ability level or skeptical of the need some of the poses. However, with proper guidance, including advice about the practical application of techniques and breathing, many people of all ages have found Yoga to be a wonderful way to improve one’s life.
Along with adding strength and flexibility, it can help decrease one’s stress levels. Practicing Yogic techniques can certainly add a sense of satisfaction and purpose to a person’s life that they have been missing before. Since there are so many variations to the asanas, they can be modified for any person who might have certain physical limitations. One such example is Chair Yoga. Poses can be done while seated in the chair. During the standing and balance poses, the chair can be used for extra support.
One of the best things about Yoga for seniors is that they can practice every day. It is a form of exercise (as well as a way of life) that is accessible to almost everyone, even people who have never tried it. It is particularly good for people who want to get into better shape but may have certain physical limitations due to injury or age. In the thousands of years that Yoga has been practiced it has definitely shown that it is a very adaptable form of exercise that can benefit almost anyone.
© Copyright – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division
Do you want to become a mindfulness meditation teacher?
To see our selection of Yoga instructor courses and continuing education courses, please visit the following link.
https://aurawellnesscenter.com/store/
Click here to see our online Yoga Nidra teacher training course.
Are you an experienced teacher looking for YACEP credits or continuing education?
Subscribe to Our Newsletter for Special Discounts and New Products
Related Resources
52 Essential Principles of Yoga Philosophy to Deepen your Practice
by Rina Jakubowicz
A Relaxing Way to De-stress, Re-energize, and Find Balance
by: Gail Boorstein Grossman
YOGA: THE PATH TO HOLISTIC HEALTH
by B.K.S. Iyengar
TEACHING YOGA: Essential Foundations and Techniques
By Mark Stephens
See our testimonials to find out what our graduates have to say about teaching yoga sessions and our selection of affordable yoga teacher training intensive courses.
Do you want to become a yoga teacher? See our selection of online yoga instructor certification courses.
2 thoughts on “Yoga For Seniors – A Healthy Alternative”