Yoga For Elders -- A New Beginning

One aspect of yoga that makes it such a popular practice is its accessibility -- nearly anyone can do yoga anywhere. Although the more advanced positions of yoga may be beyond the reach of many elders, its basic principles can be put to good use by people of any age. In fact in India, 50 is believed to be the perfect age for beginning yoga, because a lifetime of experience can help the individual reach the higher levels of consciousness sought by many yoga devotees.

It's Never Too Late

Unfortunately, in our society most people are becoming less and less physically active. Many elders live sedentary lives in which television programs dictate the day's schedule.

Muscles already weakened by age become even weaker with inactivity. Negative side effects of a sedentary lifestyle can include joint stiffness and pain, muscle cramps, back pain, fragile bones, osteoporosis, and decreased mobility.

Worst of all, these problems can form a vicious cycle in which the elder is trapped. Yoga can be used by elders to escape this cycle, improving their health and enriching their lives to the very end.

The practice of yoga leads a person toward greater union between body and spirit. Perspectives on life and on ourselves change as we age. The spiritual side of reality becomes more important, and this forms an excellent foundation for older people to begin practicing yoga.

Some of the more acrobatic yoga poses are not advisable for most elders, of course, but many yoga poses are simple and easy. Elders can also successfully apply and benefit from yogas important breathing and relaxation techniques.

Easy Does It

It is important for elders to begin the practice of yoga with gentle movements. For the first weeks -- or even months -- the entire practice might be made up only of warm-up exercises. One of the most important principles of yoga practice for the elderly is gradualism.

By taking physical exercises step by step to higher levels, yoga practitioners of all ages can enjoy stronger muscles and better blood circulation. Yoga is known as one of the best techniques for massaging muscles and internal organs -- key to a strong, healthy body. Yoga also helps increase blood oxygen, which translates not only to greater physical strength, but also to a sharp, focused memory and increased attention span.

Breathing Lessons

One aspect of yoga that is unique and vital is its focus on the breath. Though it is essential to keeping us alive, we are usually unconscious of our breathing. Yoga acknowledges that importance by including many breathing techniques that can build energy and sharpen concentration. Deep, controlled breathing induces a state of relaxed alertness that can help a person face the problems of old age with a more positive attitude.

You don't have to spend years of practice in order to enjoy yoga. On the contrary, many elders feel that this is not work -- its fun! When practiced correctly, yoga is safe and it pays dividends in greater joy and vitality at any age.