The senior population in Singapore is growing fast and so is their curiosity in living dynamic, healthy lives.

As a form of exercise, yoga is an extremely beneficial exercise for seniors because it helps in increasing flexibility and balance, enduring pain, relieving fatigue and stress.  Many seniors love Yoga because it contributes to their overall well being and also helps them feel younger.

What do seniors stand to gain?

Benefits of Yoga for seniors

Reduces Arthritis.

Many arthritis patients are usually advised to start carrying out yoga practices so as to reduce the side effects of arthritis and also speed up its treatment.

For this reason, a good yoga plan is highly valuable especially for an arthritis patient.

Helps one fall asleep

Many seniors are usually faced with difficulty when trying to fall asleep and this is where yoga for seniors comes handy. The feeling of relaxation and relieve from stress that one gets from a yoga class is what enables one to fall asleep without difficulty.

Remedy for excess weight

Studies have shown that practicing yoga regularly highly helps in loosing excess weight.

Stress relief

Practicing this type of exercise also helps in relieving stress and alleviating mood and anxiety levels.

Helps ease chronic pain

Another reason why practicing this exercise plan for seniors is advantageous, is because yoga helps to ease chronic pain. Any senior suffering from chronic pain only requires a few weeks of yoga practice to ease the pain.

Are you suffering from neck pain? We’ve also explored the poses you can try if you need neck pain relief.

What about back pain? We’ve got that covered too. The 7 Best Yoga Poses for Back Pain

Remedy for breathing difficulties and lung problems

Many elderly persons suffer breathing difficulties and lung problems. Some yoga poses help in muscle relaxation and has postures to help people with breathing difficulties.

Reduces diabetes and hypertension

Studies have shown that this exercise plan for seniors helps reduce the side effects of diabetes and hypertension among the elderly people.

So before you get excited for your first lesson, make sure to continuing scrolling.

What you should know before you start

As an older person, there are several factors you need to consider before starting any yoga lesson (especially if you are a complete beginner). You also need to know the most suitable yoga poses for seniors so as to avoid straining yourself with poses that your body may not be able to endure.

Check with your doctor.

One of the greatest things about yoga is the fact that it is adaptable to diverse populations with different fitness levels and needs. However, before starting this exercise you have to consult with your doctor and let him be aware that you are going to start increasing your body’s level of activity. Checking with your doctor is also paramount especially if you have, a heart condition, blood pressure, any joint problems and also if you are under any type of cardiac medications.

Set a goal

Before starting yoga classes, make sure you have a personal goal. When you commence this exercise without setting your fitness goals then you will not fully benefit from it. It does not matter whether the goal is short term or long term because setting a goal will help you achieve your desired fitness levels and health benefits. After you have set your goals, do not fail to record your progress as you keep working towards your goals.

Attend Yoga classes

Even though it is possible for you to learn yoga from videos and books, the best way of practicing this exercise is through teaching instructions in a yoga class. This is because attending a yoga class will allow you get the most out of this exercise while minimizing the risk of sustaining injuries.

Yoga classes for seniors are easily available in Singapore. Most neighbourhood community centres or yoga centres should have some beginner lessons that are senior-friendly. Of course, we also have instructors who have plenty of experience with older practitioners. (let us know if you have any specific needs)

Be aware of the ideal poses for you

The ideal type of yoga for you will be determined by your physical abilities and current level of fitness. If you are a beginner or if you are starting to exercise after a long time then you ought to start with gentle practices so that your body can slowly adapt to the new activity it is being involved in.

Suitable Yoga poses for seniors.

There are various styles of yoga styles recommended for seniors. Here are the basic styles of yoga that are best suited for seniors and general tips on how to choose the style that is ideal for you;

Hatha

Hatha is one of the six original styles of yoga that focuses on breathing techniques, relaxation and physical postures. The style is recommended for seniors because it emphasizes on breathing, stress relief and can also be meditative.

Iyengar

This type of yoga focuses on body alignment. Iyengar is a good yoga style for seniors because it is usually done with great care and also has a lot of enhancements through props so as to slowly introduce a beginner to this type of exercise plan.

Kundalini

Unlike many other common styles, the Kundalini yoga style majors on devotional elements, i.e. meditation and chanting. This style is ideal for any senior who is looking for a simple way to improve their flexibility or relieve stress since the style is known to have a strong spiritual element.

Yoga styles that are not recommended

Power Yoga

The power yoga is strictly based on promoting strength and flexibility. The original form of power yoga was not recommended for seniors because of the more strenuous movements. However, those who are fit and also looking for a challenge on their general fitness, can try it out as long as they start slowly. Try this at your own risk!

Most yoga for seniors classes take between forty five minutes to one hour. It is important to start and work on it at your own pace. Take it slow and easy, and you will reap a wealth of health benefits.

Make sure to find an instructor that puts your needs first. Inform them prior to the first lesson of all your health issues and concerns.

If you decide to take up yoga classes, here are some tips that may be of help for first timers.