Yoga Can Be A Great Way to Keep Seniors Fit, Active, and Relaxed
Posted by Deb Spinelli on July 17, 2020
Yoga is an age-old fitness program with a multitude of benefits. Today, as its benefits become more widely acknowledged, yoga classes are offered at community centers and even churches in nearly every town. From increased flexibility, to better coordination, to stress reduction, the benefits of yoga are innumerable.
For some people, the word "yoga" conjures visions of impossibly pretzel twisted bodies and head-standing gurus. In reality, however, many forms of yoga incorporate simple, gentle stretching exercises and calming breathing techniques. Hatha yoga is perhaps the gentlest form of yoga in practice and it can be highly beneficial to the elderly for whom other, more strenuous forms of exercise may be off limits.
Some of the effects of practicing yoga, such as increased muscle tone and improved cognitive abilities are particularly beneficial to seniors who may suffer from slackening muscles and diminishing cognitive capacities. Recent studies suggest that yoga may even be beneficial in controlling the symptoms of Alzheimer's and dementia!
One of the key foundations of any yoga practice is breathing exercises. Yoga breathing, also referred to as pranayama, can increase lung capacity over time. This makes yoga breathing particularly helpful for those who might suffer from underlying breathing issues or for elderly patients recovering from bronchial or lung problems.
Indeed, it is possible to practice yoga solely through breathing exercises so even those who are unable to perform basic stretching exercises can reap the benefits of pranayama. Stress reduction is among the benefits of practicing yoga breathing exercises. Even the bedbound elderly can benefit from such exercises since all that is required to perform them is an activity that comes naturally to all of us. Breathe in. Breathe out. It's as simple as that!
Of course, it is essential to always check with a healthcare professional before beginning any exercise program, even one as gentle as hatha yoga. Perhaps even breathing is difficult for some and obviously some form of lung conditioning is necessary before beginning a yoga practice. If this is the case, then we can help you to breathe easier.
The Medical Maven offers a variety of respiratory aids designed to assist with breathing improvement and develop increased lung capacity. Whether you are searching for a nebulizer, an incentive spirometer or other respiratory accessory, we can help you find what you are looking for. Visit our website to view our varied selection of respiratory aids.
Statement: Yoga can improve lung capacity and cognitive capability and reduce stress in seniors.
