Growing old clearly has its benefits. Seniors often have more leisure time and the discretionary income to enjoy that leisure. However, the body also begins to break down, often leading to the need for medications and limiting the kinds of activities you can engage in. Diseases like arthritis, rheumatism, high-blood pressure and diabetes can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. One great way to maintain your level of physical activity is through physical exercise, and the ancient practice of yoga can help maintain flexibility and reduce stress to lead you to a healthier, more active life.



Many are initially wary of yoga, associating it with extreme body positions or assuming that there are severe religious overtones, but yoga has really entered the mainstream in the last twenty years. It is offered at most health clubs and classes abound at university and colleges. There are yoga instructors and yoga sessions particularly designed for senior citizens. They often focus on increasing mobility and agility to maintain flexibility in daily life, without dealing with the overly taxing inverted positions. The yoga mat, used for floor positions, is often replaced by a chair, lending increased stability for standing and stretching positions.



The first yoga practice can create some anxiety. However, most yoga instructors are very encouraging, and the soothing voice and soft music most often used during instruction create a welcoming and open environment for you to connect with your body at whatever level you currently practice. A yoga practice is very much centered on the individual. One of the most important tenets of yoga is to find your own level and work to expand and transcend your own boundaries. This is useful at any stage in life, but can be particularly useful for seniors that might be feeling limitations based on age. "Yoga" is an ancient Sanskrit word which means "union," and yoga practice is centered on uniting the physical body with the mind to bring about overall harmony to the individual.



Aside from the physical benefits of yoga, there are also mental benefits. Yoga is a very meditative process, and it can help to calm the mind and reduce tension and stress. The deep breathing exercises inherent in yoga can cleanse the airways and help to avoid respiratory ailments. Deep-breathing will also bring an increased oxygen flow to the body and will help lessen the strain of many physical activities. Yoga often brings a peace and tranquility to its practitioners, imbuing them with a sense of well-being in both mind and body.



Yoga can restore lost vitality, keep you limber, and work against the degenerative effects of old age. It is not a cure-all, but combined with good nutrition and an otherwise active lifestyle, yoga can help keep you active through your golden years. Don't be afraid to venture out and try something new or ask your community center to begin introductory classes into the intriguing world of yoga.