Roger x
This is Roger. Roger is one of my clients and after a year and a half, it is safe to say he has become one of my dearest friends. At 76, Roger has died once, for 43 minutes! He has had two hip replacements, and he is an advocate for Yoga - for the strength, resilience, and flexibility it promotes. He still plays tennis most days and he is a hero of mine for many reasons.
What Roger demonstrates is that embarking on a yoga journey is a decision that knows no age limits. Whether you're in your twenties or your seventies, the benefits of yoga can be transformative. It can have numerous physical, mental and emotional benefits that contribute to overall well-being. As individuals age, maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly crucial, and yoga offers a gentle yet effective approach to achieving and sustaining wellness.
Today I am writing this post, in celebration of life, my friendship and admiration for Roger, our shared hilarious stories and our love for good food.
Friendship, has an incredible capacity to grow, evolve and flourish into something truly beautiful. And it is through Yoga that ours has. I am a firm believer that Yoga can offer a shared, positive experience between teacher and student.
Not only this but there are a huge array of other benefits:
Physical Flexibility and Strength:
Yoga involves a series of poses and stretches that enhance flexibility and promote joint mobility. As people age in particular, the body tends to lose some of its natural flexibility, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Regular practice of yoga helps to counteract these effects, keeping the body supple and agile. Additionally, many yoga poses focus on building and maintaining strength, which is vital for supporting bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
Balance and Coordination:
Aging often brings challenges to balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Yoga emphasizes balance through various poses that require concentration and stability. Over time, practicing these poses can improve balance and coordination, reducing the likelihood of falls and enhancing overall physical confidence.
Joint Health:
Yoga is particularly beneficial for joint health. The gentle movements and stretches help to lubricate the joints, preventing stiffness and promoting better mobility. For individuals dealing with arthritis or other joint-related issues, yoga provides a low-impact exercise option that can be adapted to accommodate different levels of mobility.
Stress Reduction and Mental Well-being:
Aging often comes with its own set of stressors, including health concerns, lifestyle changes and the loss of loved ones. Yoga incorporates mindfulness and deep-breathing techniques that can significantly reduce stress and promote mental well-being. The meditative aspects of yoga encourage a calm and centred mind, fostering emotional resilience and a positive outlook on life.
Adaptability to Individual Needs:
One of the great advantages of yoga is its adaptability to individual needs and abilities. Yoga can be modified to accommodate varying levels of fitness and physical conditions. Whether an individual is a beginner or dealing with specific health concerns, there are often modified poses and practices that can be tailored to their unique circumstances.
Practicing yoga at an old age is not just about physical exercise; it's a holistic approach to health that addresses the body, mind and spirit. The gentle nature of yoga makes it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal practice for those seeking to maintain and improve their well-being as they age.
My love and admiration goes out to Roger. You are a champion of this field!
From my whole heart to yours,
Namaste x
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