The ancient practice of yoga is popular among many age groups. However, the activity is especially beneficial for senior citizens. Classes are readily available at local community or fitness centers, and the various types of yoga ensure seniors can find a group suitable for them. Here are a few reasons seniors should do yoga.
Increases Balance
Falls are a major concern for older adults. The positions practiced while doing yoga strengthen the muscles required to hold a pose, which enhances balance. Doing yoga helps seniors gain self-confidence, which enhances their overall quality of life.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust homecare experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
Enhances Joint Health
By bending and flexing the joints in gentle fluid movements, seniors can increase their range of motion. While bearing body weight, older adults also boost bone health by preventing osteoporosis.
Builds Muscle Strength
Yoga poses work all the major muscle groups. Side planks and the boat pose strengthen the abdominal muscles. While supporting the weight of the body, arm muscles become toned. Various poses strengthen the hips, quadriceps, and thighs. Bridges, squats, and warrior poses develop the gluteal muscles. The cat/cow pose, the child’s pose, and the downward-facing dog stretch all strengthen back muscles.
Reduces Pain
Many yoga poses focus on the body’s core, making abdominal muscles stronger and aligning the spine in a more natural position. Strong abs support the spine and eliminate undue stress, and spinal realignment alleviates back pain. As muscles and bones become stronger and joints more flexible, overall discomfort subsides.
Strengthens the Cardiovascular System
The peaceful surroundings and calm atmosphere in yoga groups alleviate stress and minimize the release of stress hormones, which increase blood pressure and pulse rate. The slow, controlled breathing performed during yoga also calms the cardiovascular system. More intense forms of yoga act as aerobic exercise, which strengthens the heart.
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Boosts Cognitive Function
While practicing yoga, participants clear their minds, breathe deeply, and concentrate on the poses they make. When in a stationary state, the prefrontal cortex is stimulated. Yoga movements also enhance blood circulation, which provides the brain with more oxygen and nutrients, enabling neurons to function at higher levels.
Enhances Mood
Yoga poses offer an emotional release, while the controlled breathing techniques encourage a sense of calm. The need to concentrate while forming and holding poses also prevents the brain from focusing on stressful events. The brain releases feel-good chemicals that promote inner peace and happiness. Seniors also feel a sense of achievement when they’re able to boost overall health by engaging in yoga routinely.
Increases Socialization
Whether older adults practice yoga outdoors in a park setting or indoors in a class, they have the chance to get to know other people and broaden their social circles. In these groups, they’re bound to meet other individuals with similar interests, which provides the opportunity to form friendships.
Practicing yoga isn’t the only way older adults can enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to boost their health and wellbeing should consider making healthy lifestyle choices. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Clearwater Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (727) 330-7862 today.