Getting older presents a variety of valuable gifts such as wisdom, maturity, experience, grace, and perspective. Like a double-edged sword, growing old carries several challenges.
At the physical level, it becomes harder to exercise and manage weight. Studies conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than a third of adults older than 65 are obese.
This increases the risk of life-threatening ailments such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Joint stress and other types of pain will get common as grow older.
At the psychological and emotional levels, seniors have recorded high rates of anxiety, depression, stress and other forms of mental disorder. In most cases, the memory declines and this can lead to low self-esteem and confidence.
Not to forget the number of elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease which impairs the ability to socialize, create relationships and fully function in the world.
With these facts and statistics in mind, the topic of growing old usually makes the majority of people fearful as the candles on their birthday cake pile up. The truth is you don’t have to be scared of the aging process. You cannot stop the aging process but there are certain things you can do to keep your body and mind in shape.
By eating healthy foods and exercising regularly, you’ll prevent diseases and enhance the flexibility of your mind. Yoga is one of the best exercises for seniors because it has proven to work physical and psychological wonders most of the time.
If you struggle with joint stress, osteoarthritis, imbalance, and other physical limitations, you will greatly benefit from incorporating yoga into your daily routine. Here are some of the proven benefits of yoga for seniors.
Improves stability and balance
According to papersowl reviews, most yoga poses are aimed at improving balance and stability which are incredibly important as you get older. Improving your balance and strengthening your muscles reduces the likelihood of falling which is quite common in elderly people. Apart from preventing them, it also strengthens seniors to bounce back when they fall.
Improves joint health and flexibility
If you’ve been looking for exercises that will enhance your flexibility, yoga is one of the best options out there. Flexibility exercises are great if your joints tend to be stiff or achy. Research on the effectiveness of yoga to manage osteoarthritis found out that yoga provided therapeutic benefits for patients.
These slow moves not only loosen your muscles but also help in toning your support muscles which prevent injuries in the long run.
Improves respiration
As you grow older, you may start experiencing respiratory limitations. Reduced tolerance for physical activities is normal. Anything that reduces the amount of oxygen in the system tends to have negative effects on the mind and body. Studies have shown that extensive yoga programs improve respiratory functions in the elderly.
You can’t live without breathing. You can survive for several days without food or water but you can’t go more than a few minutes without breath. Therefore, it’s important to keep your respiratory system in top shape.
Reduces high blood pressure
As nursing assignment help reports, high bold pressure is among the top causes of cardiovascular diseases and kidney disease. Studies show that yoga reduces and eliminates oxidative stress in seniors. Oxidative stress is one of the common causes of high blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attacks especially for seniors.
Reduces stress
Yoga classes are usually calm to allow the body and mind to recover lost energy and vitality, especially for seniors. When you practice yoga regularly, you’ll reduce the fight or flight response of the sympathetic nerve which can cause inflammation and discomfort on the body and mind.
Yoga practice revolves around focusing on slow movements and breath which help in triggering the parasympathetic nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety.
Encourages Mindfulness
Yoga is focused on listening to your body and breathing; both of which expand your awareness. The human mind is likened to a monkey because it can’t stay still and tries to imitate things in its environment.
Yoga helps in calming your mind down and being present. You can only be peaceful and happy when you are focused on the present moment.
Increases blood circulation
Seniors require exercise programs that get their blood flowing without straining their joints or muscles. Yoga provides enough physical activity to boost the circulation of blood to all parts of the body without overexerting the elderly. It’s one of the best forms of exercise that seniors can choose to promote their health and vitality.
Improves social skills
Seniors need to spend time with other people especially their age mates. Turning exercises into social opportunities will make it easier for the elderly to stay motivated and inspired. They can encourage each other to exercise more or consume healthy foods. And this will improve their health in the long run.
Conclusion
Doing yoga is one of the best ways for seniors to boost their health. You might enjoy being a lone wolf, however, it’s important to spend time with friends and family as you grow old.
This article was written by Kurt Walker is an experienced editor and writer for personal statement writing service, dissertation service and resume help who currently lives in London. He is also a content creator for thesis help, assignment help, and paper writing service. As a journalist, he is interested in education, productivity, and technology.
