Several recent scientific studies continue to pile on the proof that regular yoga practice in middle-age adults provides incredible benefits for a healthy aging process. In case you hadn’t heard, the general benefits of a regular yoga practice make it a worthwhile pursuit in absolutely any age group.  As the human body begins to grow old, however, the presence of normal wear-and-tear and the natural decline experienced in our muscles and joints, makes doing yoga regularly particularly beneficial for older populations. Besides physical benefits, yoga is also known to help with mental clarity, and even increase joy! Although in our modern world, most references to yoga are talking about the physical exercise kind (Hatha, or asanas), physically limited communities can practice yoga as well, with modified poses, or by focusing on meditation and the movement of the breath.

Yoga for Osteoporosis

If you are experiencing osteoporosis, or if it runs in your family, then you know that gentle exercise is vitally important to maintaining bone density. A routine yoga practice that includes asanas like tree pose, side angle pose, and gentle seated twisting pose, has been shown to “[increase] bone strength and mineral density significantly” (sciatica.org).

Yoga for Arthritis

According to treatment guidelines published by the American College of Rheumatology, “physical activity is an essential part of the effective treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).” There are many gentle forms of yoga that allow those who are experiencing joint pain to move slowly and carefully, with minimal impact on the joints. Additionally, many forms of yoga, like yoga nidra, do not require that practitioners be able to exercise in order to see benefits like an increased mind-body connection.

Yoga for Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Not only does yoga make practitioners more body-aware (a crucial skill when staying on the lookout for worsening symptoms), but it also helps them stay mentally sharper. As quoted in a recent article published in Yoga Journal, “Last year, in the first study to suggest that memory loss may be reversed, yoga and meditation were included as part of a complex, 36-point therapeutic program. Another study found that yoga and meditation may help Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and their caregivers socialize and feel better.” Even hatha yoga classes (the physical kind you’ll find in most cities) include a bit of breath and meditation work that will help with maintaining alertness.

Please remember, however, that our bodies are unique, and what’s right for one person may not be best for another. Especially when health issues are involved, it’s important to check with your medical provider to make sure your body is healthy enough for yoga and other types of exercise.

 

http://www.sonima.com/yoga/health-benefits-of-yoga/

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-16957/5-anti-aging-benefits-of-yoga.html

http://sciatica.org/yoga/12poses.html

http://www.yogajournal.com/meditation/benefits-yoga-meditation-alzheimers-dementia/

http://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/patient-corner/disease-management/yoga-for-arthritis/