Yoga for Seniors & Chair Yoga
Our senior population is growing rapidly, and so is their interest in leading active, healthy lives. On the whole, we live longer than we used to, and we all want high-quality living and good health to be a part of our older years. As we grow older, however, we typically become more susceptible to ailments that are linked to aging, and, as a result, we tend to move less. The less we move, the more susceptible we become to a variety of ailments, and so it becomes a truly vicious cycle.
Although many of us feel that we should follow the advice of "taking it easy" as we grow older, that is actually what we shouldn't do. Extended periods of sitting lead to muscular shortening, tightening, and weakening. Lack of weight-bearing activity contributes to osteoporosis. Lack of movement and stretching leads to joint deterioration and loss of flexibility. Of grave concern for our senior population is the lack of balance which stems, in part, from sitting rather than standing and from not challenging one's balance in various positions. Complications resulting from falls among people over the age of 65 frequently lead to a multitude of serious problems.
Many health concerns have been linked to the sedentary lifestyle which is typical of many older people, including, but not limited to, the following:
reduced joint flexibility
arthritis/bursitis
high blood pressure
increased body fat and decreased lean body tissue
osteoporosis
low back pain
breathing difficulties
poor blood circulation
vision problem
chronic pain
stress-related symptoms
inability to sleep peacefully
In the light of our growing senior population and the health conditions associated with aging, researchers are beginning to take a closer look at the health concerns of this population and at how these issues can be addressed. Yoga is considered by many to be a tremendous tool for combating the concerns of an aging society. The following information will explain how yoga can be used with this population to increase mobility and reduce many health concerns facing the elderly.
