become a yoga instructorBy Faye Martins

As we age, our muscles tend to become less flexible and our bones become more brittle. Some of the more high impact activities such as running and certain types of circuit training or weightlifting may become difficult or even dangerous. However, Yoga is an activity that almost anyone can do, regardless of age or fitness level.

There are numerous asanas that will help to enhance balance and increase flexibility. Those two traits can help to decrease the pain from arthritis and other joint issues that often occur later in life. Many seniors will find they find the most benefit from styles that include Hatha, Restorative, Aura, and Chair Yoga.

Hatha Yoga is perfect for those who are looking for a gentle form of stretching. It emphasizes strength through gentle and gradual low impact movements. It is particularly beneficial for people who would like to reduce stress. There are also variations on the poses for beginners or people who have problems with certain poses due to pain or injury. Hatha encourages relaxation while at the same time increasing flexibility, so it is a good choice for people of all ages.

Aura Yoga works with individual students to help them develop the best type of plan for themselves. It takes into account current and past injuries, and health statistics such as weight and fitness level. It is a very personalized style that is great for seniors who are looking for more individualized attention. The Aura Yoga instructor certification courses teach an instructor how to be aware of every student in the class. 

At Aura Wellness Center, instructors are trained to make the method match the needs and abilities of the student. In this way, a student gets the most out of a class and soon realizes that the safety of the student is a priority. With this in mind, a student who wants physical challenges will also be given challenging options.

Restorative is yet another form of Yoga that is particularly good for seniors. It emphasizes meditative transformations and developing Yogic practices as a way of life. Restorative is even gentler than Hatha, and may offer more for people who may be overweight or have other types of mobility issues or injuries.

Yoga for seniors is a viable option even for people who have health issues. It can help to strengthen the cardiovascular system as well as decrease joint pain. It is more than just a form of exercise; it is also the gateway to a healthier lifestyle. And that is something that can be beneficial for anyone, regardless of age.

© Copyright 2012 – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

Please feel free to review videos of demonstrations and lectures for the continuing education of Yoga teachers.

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