| Chair Yoga for Senior Independence
By Paul Jerard
Until a certain age in life, words like
dignity, quality of life, and independence seem to be more suitable
for descriptions, or reasons, why independent nations had
revolutionary wars, than for senior independence. However, for
seniors, these words reflect the need to stay the course of
independence.
In some cases, our bodies go on existing, while our physical and
mental health is slipping away. We need something that will maintain
our health, aside from another prescription, with side effects.
Walking offers many good benefits, but some of us have more wear and
tear on the knees, hips, and back, than we would like. We gave up
running years ago, and walking is fine, but has to be kept in
moderation. We should still walk when, or if, it is possible, but
you have to listen to your body and walk accordingly.
Chair Yoga offers a safe, low-impact workout, with cross training
benefits that will change your life for the best. Flexibility,
mobility, bone density, and strength can all be enhanced with the
practice of Chair Yoga.
With flexibility comes "new found" mobility, and this contributes to
independence. Many Chair Yoga students start a walking program, or
use an exercise bike, elliptical trainer, or tread mill, for
enhanced cardiovascular work - shortly after seeing the results of
flexibility and mobility.
Fall prevention is also covered in most Chair Yoga classes. Most of
us realize the potential consequences of falling down, with bones
that are not as pliable as they used to be. We all know how
devastating a broken hip can be. Therefore, balancing exercises are
covered, and students are reminded to work on balancing at home.
At home, the walls, and your kitchen counter, can also be used for
sturdy props when working on balancing exercises. You should also be
aware that some prescriptions will affect your balance. This is one
more good reason to talk to your doctor, or pharmacist, about the
side effects of any prescription.
You can also research any prescription's side effects on the
Internet, by going to a search engine and entering the name of the
product in your search. This will take you to the manufacturer's
site, and at the bottom, you will see the possible side effects of
that particular prescription.
Getting back to flexibility, mobility, and balance - you can make
the most of your life by visiting a local Senior Center or Yoga
studio to inquire about Chair Yoga classes. Some classes are also a
mix of disciplines, and may be labeled as stretch, wellness, or
stretch and tone classes.
If possible, try a class to see if it fits your needs. You will
start feeling the results in a week or two and make the most of your
life, right now. No matter how much time we have left, we all want
to remain independent and keep our dignity intact.
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