Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q: I am thinking about taking a yoga class, but I am not sure if it is the right form of exercise for me. I am 78.
A: Yoga is a great form of exercise, especially as we age. Seniors may have some health challenges, and we know that yoga could be very beneficial.
As usual, I recommend that you check with your physician before you begin any exercise program, even yoga. Once you get the thumbs up from your doctor, you will want to research what type of yoga appeals to you and agrees with your body.
One of the most important things to remember is to start slow. Some of us have gotten used to a relaxed lifestyle that keeps us parked on the couch rather than in the gym, so start slow.
Yoga can be done while standing, but for seniors, chair yoga may be just the right thing. This form of yoga involves modified poses and moves that help those who might be a little unsteady on their feet.
It is growing in popularity and the health benefits it offers are quite numerous. Seniors can experience increased mobility, balance, and even diminished joint pain and stiffness.
Susan Awot, Certified Yoga Instructor in the greater Kane County area recommends chair yoga for seniors.
âChair yoga is a gentle form of head to toe movement, using the body, mind, and breath to travel from one pose to another. Yoga teaches the student to honor their abilities as well as their limitations. Chair yoga is non-competitive and each student learns to listen to the unique needs of their own body. Consistent practice can bring improved body awareness, posture, balance, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, concentration, memory, and sleep,â she said.
The type of chair is not important, but make sure it is stable and secure and doesnât roll away, move, or wobble. A group setting with a professional is a great way to begin. Check your local senior center to find out if classes are offered. If youâd like more information, we can connect you with Susan, our favorite yoga expert. Give us a call and we can point you in the right direction.’
⢠Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
