From head to toe, adults 55 and over – and anyone else, truth be told – can feel better through yoga, regardless of their level of yoga expertise. Numerous studies have been done, the results of which back the statement: “Practicing yoga provides benefits for young and old.” The longer you participate in yoga, the longer you will enjoy the benefits. Practice yoga your entire life, and you can enjoy its benefits throughout your days.
According to WebMD, there is no bad or wrong age at which to practice yoga. The low impact moves associated with yoga help build strength and can keep people flexible – even as they age. If you have health issues such as limited mobility, arthritis, etc., yoga can even accommodate your precise physical needs through certain modifications. That’s one of the things that makes yoga so very beneficial to retirement-age adults.
Better Self-Care
Scientific studies have validated the value of yoga where healthcare is concerned. They have proven that the following benefits have been experienced by numerous participants:
- Chronic pain relief
- Improved women’s health
- Oncology benefits
- Help with balance issues
- Assistance in the area of osteopenia (low bone density)
- Relief from arthritis symptoms
Supportive Community
Participating in group yoga can provide support and healing and ease loneliness.
Manage Stress
Scientific evidence shows that a better quality of sleep, weight loss, healthy eating, mindfulness, mental health, and stress management are all supported by regular yoga routines.
Suggested pose: Savasana (corpse pose)
Brighter Moods and Energy Boosts
Routine yoga can help people experience fewer negative feelings, boost enthusiasm and alertness, and increase physical and mental energy.
Sleep Better
To help your body not only go to sleep but stay that way, and to get your head in the right mindset for sleep, research has shown that a consistent routine involving bedtime yoga is useful.
- Suggested pose: Legs-up-the-wall pose
Heart Health
To contribute to a healthier heart, reduce body-wide inflammation and stress, and address topics such as excess weight and high blood pressure – which contribute to heart disease – regular yoga may be useful.
- Suggested pose: Downward dog pose
Ease Symptoms of Arthritis
John Hopkins did some studies that showed people with arthritis and swollen, tender joints experienced some relief – symptoms were eased – through gentle yoga.
Relieve Back Pain
To improve mobility and ease pain, basic stretching through yoga may help those with back pain.
- Suggested pose: Cat-cow pose
Improve Flexibility, Balance, and Strength
You can build strength by holding a pose. Deep breathing and slow movements help to warm up muscles and increase blood flow.
- Suggested pose: Tree pose
Note: All of the above-stated yoga poses are easily found online should you wish to explore how to do them.
Health and Wellness Opportunities for Retirement Age Adults
Residents at Rittenhouse Village At Michigan City can greatly benefit from participating in our Dimensions Health and Fitness program. Here, life’s essential aspects – social, intellectual, medical, emotional, spiritual, and physical wellness – are concentrated on. Through exercise classes, spiritual gatherings, educational opportunities, and more, residents are provided a fun and interesting source of activities for the body, spirit, and mind.
