T. Krishnamacharya, often referred to as the father of modern yoga stated, “If you can breathe you can do yoga!” However, in our western culture the media often portrays yoga as being exclusively for the already flexible, athletic young woman. Everyone and everybody can benefit from this ancient healing practice regardless of age or ability. In fact, a recent study published by Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance in 2016 reported that there are more older practitioners than ever before.
As a Certified Yoga Therapist, I have noticed that too often seniors are told what not to do. Happily, yoga focuses on what one can do, meeting each student exactly where they are. Yoga addresses an individual’s unique abilities and unique needs, physical and emotional.
A specialized yoga class for the mature student integrates gentle postures, adapted and modified with a focus on flexibility, strength and stability. Yoga also weaves in the more subtle yoga practices of breath awareness, meditation, visualization, and deep relaxation.
Mindful movements linked with our breath can balance our nervous system, helping us to let go of tension. Yoga postures practiced consistently over time can strengthen our muscles and increase our flexibility, making daily activities easier. Yoga can also increase our balance which leads to less risk of falls, allowing us to mover through our days with a greater sense of comfort and ease. Finally, yoga’s popularity today is due in part because it creates connection to a loving community, which is vital, particularly as we age.
Now nearing 65 years of age, I know from personal lived experience and knowledge what a safe, gentle, and transformative practice yoga can be. I keep returning to yoga practice with a grateful heart and spirit for the ongoing healing yoga provides for my ever-changing body and mind. As one of my mentors Yoga Therapist Lindsay Whalen would often say, “Yoga is indeed the gift that keeps on giving!”
Finally, more and more local Senior Centres and community centres offer accessible, inclusive, gentle yoga classes for older adults and seniors, including chair yoga for individuals not as comfortable with getting down on the floor.
The Seniors Centre offer a variety of yoga classes – Yoga for Arthritis, Chair Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Active Flow Yoga at an affordable price with excellent instructors.
