New Delhi: The term Yoga came from Sanskrit which means ‘to unite’. Yoga is not just about exercising for physical fitness, it is more about involving a healthy habit in your routine which will promote a balance and harmony between the body, soul and mind. Yoga is for all, from children to seniors, it is an excellent practice for seniors, offering numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. As we age, maintaining flexibility, balance, and strength is becoming more important, and yoga provides a subtle yet effective way to achieve these goals.
For seniors who often suffer from anxiety and isolation, yoga can be an ideal way to relax and let go of the tension, especially in the shoulders and upper back.
Dr Prateek Bhardwaj of Vesta Elder Care shared with News9, “Whether you are a young bee or someone above the age of 60, it is never too late to start yoga. It is one of the most safe and effective ways to improve physical health and overall wellness. According to a recent study, around 21 per cent of adults aged 60 and older practice yoga. So if you are above 60 and are looking to improve flexibility, reduce stress, or maintain a sense of well-being, yoga is the ideal way to enhance your quality of life.”
Here’s a beginner’s guide for seniors who are planning to start their yoga journey:
Yoga Asanas Ideal for Seniors
Cat-Cow Pose or Marjaryasana-Bitilasana: It is a gentle yoga pose which helps seniors balance their posture, helps in strengthens muscles in the lower back, middle back, upper back, core, hips, and pelvis and also releases tension and gives mobility and flexibility to the spine. You can do the yoga by taking the support of a chair or else you can also sit back as if you are sitting in an imaginary chair, keeping your knees behind your toes and arms extended forward.
Seated Forward Bend or Paschimottanasana: One of the major benefits of this asana is its ability to pain and stiffness in the back and shoulder muscles, something which is highly common among seniors. It also enhances the flexibility of your spine so back and shoulder pains can be eliminated. To receive the maximum benefit of it, sit with your legs extended in front of you and gently reach for your toes, keeping your spine long.
Mountain Pose or Tadasana: This classic yoga pose is the foundation of all yoga asanas. It not only offers strength and flexibility to older adults but also helps them manage their emotions better. If you are suffering from any chronic disease or recovering after surgery practising this particular yoga asana can be highly beneficial for both physical and mental health. Simply stand with feet hip-width apart, arms at your sides, and engage your core while lifting your chest and lengthening your spine.
Benefits of Yoga for Seniors
Breathing exercises and meditation, integral parts of yoga, help to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. Also, it helps in balancing heart rate and blood pressure. In short, starting yoga after 60 is a wonderful way to look after your physical and mental health. With the right approach, yoga can be a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding practice that contributes to a vibrant and active lifestyle.
Remember to start slow, listen to your body, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of self-discovery and well-being that yoga offers
Whether you are a young bee or someone above the age of 60, it is never too late to start yoga. It is one of the most safe and effective ways to improve physical health and overall wellness. On International Yoga Day, yoga expert shared a beginner’s guide for seniors who are planning to start their yoga journey Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
