Yoga is a therapy for the mind, body, and soul. It is no wonder that more people are keener on learning all the yoga techniques to enhance their lifestyle, spirituality, and health. Yoga has countless benefits for the old and the young. The practice of yoga for senior citizens is very beneficial.
Considering their age, they are more prone to many diseases and poor health. Yoga helps them to keep fit and even helps to prolong life. The seniors should take care of their health by working out through yoga and eating healthier.
For the elderly looking for ways to enhance their physical and mental health, yoga is the way to do it. The stretching, breathing, and meditation is a great solution. Regular practice of yoga for senior citizens will bring a ton load of benefits. They will soon experience greater flexibility, loss of pain in joint areas, lowered stress, and better sleep.
Yoga for the elderly.
There is no doubt that yoga is becoming highly popular among people. It is especially true for people who are above the age of 50 years. Internationally there has been a significant jump towards the practice of yoga, especially among the seniors. The only reason why it is becoming so popular is because of its many benefits!
Benefits of yoga.
We have listed some benefits that a regular practice of yoga brings to the elderly.
Better balance.
Most of the seniors have trouble with their core balance and suffer from joint and limb pain. Yoga eliminates these symptoms and gives them a better balance for their core. It helps them to strengthen their abdominal muscles and get them steadier on their feet. It reduces the risk of falling to a great degree.
Better flexibility.
Yoga techniques can be great stretching exercises for seniors. It helps to relax and loosen the muscles. And increase the range of motion. Stretching and remaining in the same position for a while stops the contraction of the ligaments. It relaxes the muscles and makes them more flexible.
Enhanced breathing.
The controlled breathing exercises help to expand the lung capacity of the seniors and improve their pulmonary health. Studies show that elderly citizens who repeat these exercises three times a week have a better respiratory system than average. Check out this article to learn more about breathwork meditation, their differences, similarities, and the benefits they provide.
Stronger bones.
Aging makes one prone to brittle bones and osteoporosis. For this, it is essential to practice yoga. With the older men and women, a regular yoga routine with weight-bearing can strengthen the bone. It also keeps them sturdy. Studies show that yoga improves bone density in women who are beyond the postmenopausal period.
Relaxation.
Yoga helps to reduce anxiety and stress. The meditation controlled breathing and focus on the present helps to loosen you. It also eases in letting go of stress and find a sense of peace. Yoga has been seen to lower the stress hormone cortisol and alleviate anxiety and depression. More than 85% of people who practice yoga regularly have said that they have a reduction in stress and depression.
Better sleep.
Yoga helps to relieve sleep disturbance, which is a common complaint with senior citizens. Studies have shown that older people with insomnia and who underwent regular yoga sessions sleep better in just a few weeks of starting. After three months, they were able to enhance the duration and quality of their sleep.
Best Yoga types for the elderly
There are many yoga styles in existence. But the ones that are the absolute best for senior citizens are mentioned below.
Hatha
This type encompasses all the physical postures. It has a series of slow-paced and gentle sitting and standing poses that are ideal for seniors. They are mostly related to stretches and breathing. These techniques are also very suitable for people who are just starting.
Iyengar
This type is relatively methodological and precise and works on the principle of a proper form. There is a use of props in the process that helps to achieve a correct alignment. It is ideal for people who are suffering from conditions such as arthritis or any chronic conditions.
Yin
This is a type of restorative yoga that focuses on holding a posture for a long time. In yin, you get to practice an active stretch along with maintaining the pose. It helps to stretch the deeper connective tissues and elevates stiffness.
Vinyasa
This technique involves matching the breathing to the movements from one flow to the other. Though the pace can differ, the routines are fluid and quick. It is a relatively advanced level type, and you might have to work your way up to be proficient in it.
