|
Yoga for Elders
One of the things that made yoga such a popular practice is its accessibility. Of course, the advanced stages of
yoga may be hard to reach by some people, but the basic principles can be put to good use by any age category. For
example, Indians believe that an age of fifty years is perfect for yoga, as the accumulated experience will help
them reach higher levels of consciousness.
Yoga practices lead towards a greater union between body and spirit. Perspectives on life and ourselves tend to
change as we progress in age. The spiritual side of the world receives more importance as we grow older - this
forms an excellent foundation for elderly people to start practicing yoga. Some of the more acrobatic yoga poses
are not advisable, of course, but elders can successfully apply most of the breathing and relaxation
techniques.
Unfortunately our society is becoming less and less active, as far as physical movement is concerned. Many elders
are affected severely by their sedentary lives in which television programs dictate most of the day's schedule. The
weakened muscles will become even weaker if they are not used for hours in a row. Just some of the negative side
effects of a sedentary life style may include back pain, muscle cramps, weak bones, osteoporosis, joint pain and
decreased mobility. The problem is that all these can form a vicious circle in which the elder allows himself to
get caught. Yoga may be the solution to the lack of determination and will power that can lead to such a poor life
style.
It is important for elders to begin practicing yoga with gentle movements. The whole practice can be formed, for
weeks or even months, of only warm up exercises. One of the most important principles of yoga practices for the
elderly is gradualism. By taking yoga physical exercises step by step to a higher level they can enjoy strengthened
muscles and better blood circulation. Yoga is known as one of the best techniques for massaging muscles and
internal organs, a key factor in a healthy and strong organism. Apart from this, yoga also helps oxygenate blood
vessels better. This translates not only in increased physical strength, but also in a sharp and focused memory and
increased attention span.
While physical exercises may also be replaced by other forms of staying fit, such as gentle jogging or light gym
exercises, there is a practice related to yoga that is absolutely vital: breathing. We are not even conscious of
our breathing although it is the one keeping us alive. Yoga practices rely heavily on breathing techniques that can
improve energy and concentration. An average human being breaths over 2000 times a day - imagine the potential
benefits that can be drawn from improving each breath even by 1%. Deep and controlled breathing will help any elder
face the problems of old age with a more positive and relaxed attitude.
You don't have to spend years and years of practice in order to enjoy yoga. On the contrary, many elders feel that
this is not hard work - it is fun! When practiced correctly yoga is safe and it brings with it numerous positive
changes that can turn into joy and vitality no matter what your age is.
| 
Delicious
Google Bookmarks
Stumbleupon
Digg
BlinkList
Blogmarks
Facebook
Ma.gnolia
Reddit
Twitter
Yahoo My Web
Livejournal