Yoga is a practice that unites the body with the mind by associating postures with breathing, concentration and relaxation exercises, benefiting both physically and mentally.
In daily life, body movements are limited and joints/cartilages are not sufficiently stimulated. In addition to losing range of motion, lack of mobility can cause other problems.
But always remember your physical condition and fitness level. Consult your doctor before starting any new type of exercise.
Practicing yoga regularly can result in a number of benefits for older people, from greater flexibility and better balance to less stress and better quality sleep:
- Helps maintain joint health and flexibility
By relying on strengthening and stretching techniques for all parts of the body, the senior can benefit from increased flexibility, which will bring him more mobility and range of motion. It also contributes to strengthening the spine, improving blood circulation and improving body posture.
- Promotes the strengthening of bones and muscles
Strength training has benefits, but it has a low impact on the joints and is therefore less likely to cause injury.
Stronger bones and muscles allow the senior to feel more confident and balanced, thus contributing to the reduction of falls and reduction of the risk of osteoporosis.
- Helps in weight loss and gastrointestinal regulation
It is essential that people over 60 years old maintain a healthy weight. Even if practiced in a gentle way, yoga increases the heart rate and enhances the burning of accumulated fat, also contributing to the improvement of digestive functions and metabolism. In addition, the philosophy of yoga encourages the adoption of a healthier lifestyle and a more balanced diet.
- Improves sleep quality
In addition to strengthening the body and providing a break that produces well-being, the work to improve breathing allows better management of stress and anxiety, reflecting on the quality of sleep. Mental and breathing exercises rest the mind and eliminate negative emotions to promote restful sleep. Better sleep means a better quality of life!
- A practice to let yourself go!
Practicing yoga is like a privileged moment in which you dedicate to yourself a break to relax and create moments of tranquillity in everyday life.
It is essentially the practice of breathing (pranayama) in yoga that calms the mind and reduces stress. The breathing techniques practiced have several benefits: they are sometimes calming, other times stimulating or even balancing.
A non-traditional option: chair yoga for seniors
Not everyone is comfortable with the movements of traditional Yoga. In chair yoga, anyone who has mobility or balance problems can enjoy the benefits without having to lie on a mat. A large number of postures - from spinal twists to hip stretching - can be modified to be performed on a chair.
