Yoga Teacher Training Forum

Yoga is well known as a low impact, high-energy activity. Yoga is a very inclusive activity as well, since it can be done at all levels. The ability to maintain very simple, low stress poses can lead to vast improvements in health [SUCH AS...]. Yoga's restorative powers make it a great way to build confidence. It will help you dispense with any negative feelings you may have about reaching a certain age. We are truly only as old as we feel, and yoga will physically make you look and feel much younger. This makes it an excellent choice for senior citizens who need to continue to be active, but not over do it. Seniors need to be aware of several things in order to make the most of their yoga exercise.

Be aware of your overall health status before you begin. Make sure your teacher has taken a yoga teacher certification course. If you are just getting back into the swing of things, you do not want to jump right into poses that could end up stressing your body too much. Know the limitations of your current physical shape, as well as the limits of your aging body. There is no shame at all in starting slow and allowing yourself the patience to really let yoga work for you. You will start seeing results a lot quicker than you might think! In a similar vein, be aware of specific ailments that you have. Bad knees are obviously not going to be able to support many of the popular poses, but that in no way limits your overall ability to participate in yoga. Do not force yourself into doing things that your body cannot comfortably handle. There is always an alternative way to achieve your goals in yoga.

Yoga should be a stress relieving exercise. This means you want to attempt to remain positive about the entire experience. Progress gradually to build up to a comfortable level. When a pose becomes painful, slowly come out of it. Do not stress your muscles to the point of exhaustion; instead allow them to slowly grow into the exercise. No matter your level of expertise, do not feel, as imperfection is a failure. You will get there with patience and practice. The realization of your newfound physical strength is an amazing feeling. Remember it is just as much about the peace of mind you achieve through yoga, as it is the physical benefits.