Seniors generally find it difficult to maintain excellent physical health since their muscles begin to lose mass and they are not as powerful as they once were. Although typical types of exercise can be too risky for seniors, and can frequently result in potential injuries or discomfort, yoga is one way that people can benefit from it. But chair yoga is one simple and very helpful method, particularly for senior citizens.
What Is Chair Yoga?
This type of yoga practice makes conventional poses more accessible by modifying them. As such, it’s a great choice for people who struggle with balance, mobility, or other chronic ailments that limit their ability to perform standard yoga poses. A holistic approach to health and wellness is provided by the continued emphasis on breathing, flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.
Benefits Of Chair Yoga For Seniors
Improved Blood Circulation: Swelling, discomfort, and cardiovascular problems are frequently caused by poor circulation, which is common among the elderly. Frequent chair yoga can mitigate this problem by gently moving and extending the body to improve blood flow. Increased vitality, cardiovascular health, and a quicker recovery from small accidents are all benefits of improved circulation.
Relief from Joint Pain: Seniors with increased mobility and flexibility can benefit from daily chair yoga practice. According to a 2016 study, chair yoga was practiced for eight weeks by older persons with osteoarthritis (OA). Their joint pain was the only thing that the yoga helped with, but the benefits persisted for at least three months after the programme ended.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Chair yoga helps older folks manage their tension and anxiety by incorporating breathing techniques and focused practices. These methods encourage relaxation, which can improve sleep quality and general wellbeing.
Seated Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
To do this pose:
- Sit at the edge of the chair with feet hip-width apart.
- Inhale, lengthen the spine and let the hands reach the floor.
- Hold for a few breaths, then slowly roll back up to seated.
Seated Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
To do this pose:
- Place hands on the knees or thighs.
- Exhale and relax the shoulders down.
- Repeat for several breaths, focusing on posture and breath.
In Short
With its gentle approach, chair yoga is suitable for seniors with different levels of mobility and health issues. Older folks can reap the many benefits of this type of yoga, such as increased social interaction, lower stress, and improved strength and balance, by incorporating it into their daily practice. Chair yoga is a fun, safe, and efficient way to promote healthy ageing whether it is done at home or in a group environment.