Senior Spotlight: Benefits of Yoga for Aging Bodies

Yoga offers advantages for all ages, with the practice boosting wellness in countless ways. While some assume yoga is nothing more than a relaxing spin on stretching, its benefits extend far beyond flexibility.

We’ll explore a few of these key benefits below, with a focus on older adults. Keep in mind that seniors’ capabilities span the spectrum, requiring a regular yoga practice customized to meet each individual’s needs. Studies show that yoga, modified for aging bodies, can benefit seniors in the following ways:

• Strengthens bones.

Bones decrease in mass and density over time, leading to osteoporosis when new bone generation can’t keep up. While not a miracle cure for this condition, yoga has been proven to prevent the onset of osteoporosis.

• Increases flexibility and range of motion.

By loosening muscles while also strengthening them, yoga provides the best of both worlds – and can help introduce a wider range of motion in older adults. More flexible bodies not only recover more quickly, but may experience fewer aches and pains – especially those related to stiffness and limited mobility.

• Boosts balance.

Yoga’s slower motions, guided by the breath, promote better balance. Improved body awareness and balance can help prevent falls and in some cases, help seniors maintain their current level of independence.

• Promotes peace of mind.

Yoga not only boasts physical benefits, but mental ones as well. By combining mindful breathing, movement, and meditation, yoga effectively releases tension and reduces stress. It has even been shown to reduce the risk of depression, partly because of the group setting it is typically practiced in. This is especially important for seniors who may experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.

• Improves sleeping habits.

Often inspiring a sense of serenity and calm, yoga can also be beneficial to seniors’ slumber habits. Its relaxing effect can help aging individuals fall asleep and get the proper amount of shut-eye.

Some exercise regimens only serve a specific fitness level, but yoga is hardly one-flow-fits-all. That’s the beauty of it, after all! To learn more about adapting yoga poses to meet your specific needs or to schedule a class, get in touch today! Complete the contact form online or email me at SunshineAndPoses@gmail.com.