Easing into Yoga and Meditation
Tips for Seniors and Caregivers Easing into Yoga and Meditation
Oftentimes, people are intimidated at the prospect of getting into yoga and meditation, especially if they are older. You might be concerned about attempting impossible positions or having to give up your belief system. However, yoga and meditation are practices nearly anyone can engage in and benefit from — and you don’t have to give up a thing.
There Are Gains Galore
Older adults often struggle with finding exercise programs that are comfortable for them, but yoga can be just the ticket. Virtually anyone can engage in certain forms of yoga, and you don’t need to perform outlandishly bendy poses or major feats of strength to reap the health benefits. Yoga can boost your flexibility, promote bone health, improve strength and balance, and help keep your mind sharp. The poses used in yoga help set you up for meditation, which also provides numerous health benefits. Spending time meditating can help lower anxiety levels, improve blood pressure, and increase self-awareness. Practicing yoga may even improve gut health because the breathing and poses of yoga relaxes the gut.
Getting Started
One great way to boost your confidence for yoga is to learn some basic stretching exercises. Stretching can be used to relieve stress levels, improve relaxation, and help you become more limber. Simply doing stretches can even ease pain, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. Also, consider adding some deep breathing exercises for maximum benefit. Another suggestion for getting started is to try some chair yoga poses, which is particularly well-suited to those with balance or mobility issues. If you have any health concerns or are new to exercise, you should discuss your situation with your doctor before you begin.
Set Up a Space
Are you looking for an exercise program you can enjoy at home? Yoga can fit the bill in that regard, and you don’t need to go to a lot of trouble or expense to get set up. Yoga requires minimal space and equipment. A mat, comfortable clothes, and a little room on the floor are all you need. If you plan to use your phone or a tablet for instruction, a small speaker could be especially helpful. If you can arrange it, a dedicated room for performing yoga is wonderful, but not necessary. Declutter whatever area you set up so you aren’t easily distracted, and aim for a spot free of foot traffic and noise.
Improve Your Environment
Many people find certain elements contribute positively to their yoga practice. Selecting certain colors for your space could help you to feel calmer and at peace, such as soft pinks, whites, and dark purples. Consider adding plants to your special area, as they can clean the air and lift your mood — peace lilies, aloe vera plants, and Boston ferns are particularly nice choices. Elite Daily points out that certain essential oils can also improve the experiences of yoga and meditation. Cedarwood is said to help you feel grounded, sandalwood promotes centered feelings, and lavender is a classic stress-reducing scent.
Enhancing Your Practice
Once you get into a routine, you’ll find you feel best doing yoga at certain times of the day. Some people like to make yoga part of their morning, starting the day off on the right foot. For others, making it a part of their bedtime ritual means getting the best night’s sleep. For optimal benefits, however, the important part is to set aside time each day — or at least several times per week — to engage in yoga and meditation.
Yoga and meditation are helpful for virtually anyone, regardless of age or ability. Get into a routine both you and your caregiver can enjoy. With your new practices, you are sure to reap some important health benefits in no time.
If you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, consider joining a dedicated yoga retreat. Combining yoga, meditation, relaxation and life-affirming experiences are the hallmarks of a retreat that can help you recharge and rejuvenate, able to take on whatever life throws at you. Check out Exhale Yoga Retreats today.