I didn’t discover Yoga or it’s benefits until midlife, but I soon became a convert to the practice. When I think of yoga, I think of incense burning, vegetarians, people who run away to India, chanting ‘Ommmmm” – a little weird, whacky and airy fairy types of things.
I was also sceptical of the physical value of yoga from a legitimate workout point of view. Unless I am huffing and puffing I didn’t think it counted as a workout.
How wrong I was. Being a runner, I wish I had discovered the benefits of doing Yoga and how it can improve your running and should be included as part of your regular workout schedule.
Having a lower back problem for many years, regular stretching and yoga practice has reduced the pain to almost zero. I am feeling much more flexible, agile and stronger.
Yoga can be an intense physical workout and also provides an avenue to clear your mind and centre yourself.
It can be challenging for the beginner as we work out way through our poses. When I first started I didn’t know my ‘downward dog’ from my ‘dolphin pose’, my ‘child’s pose’ from my ‘shavasana’.
But that didn’t matter!
Once I overcame my initial self-consciousness as a beginner I realised that the wonderful part of a yoga practise is that there is no judgement – even from yourself. You do what you can at your own level. You set your intention for the practise and you focus entirely on that.
Yoga is a great workout for all ages, shapes and sizes. It is a great way to compliment your regular exercise and training workouts because of the holistic value in each practise. It helps you to avoid injury by strengthening muscles.
Convinced yet??? Wait there is more…..
Practising regularly provides a total workout for your whole being – physically, mentally and spiritually.
Physical Benefits
- Improves Flexibility
- Provides Relaxation Techniques
- Heals Aches & Pains
- Builds Core Strength
- Builds Muscle Strength
- Improves Posture
- Has cardiovascular benefits
- Teaches you how to breathe correctly to cope with stress
- Improves Balance
- Improves Sleeping
Psychological Benefits
- Improves Inner Strength
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety
- Improves Self-Esteem
Spiritual Benefits
- Helps you to focus
- Provides clarity
- Provides a sense of well-being and calm
Now that you want to try yoga – where should you go?
There are many studios and different forms of yoga. However trying to find one that is right for you may mean trying several studios.
Word of mouth is always the best form of advertising so ask your friends.
Many studios offer discounted classes for a short period so take advantage of these to see if you like it before investing in more expensive classes.
Can’t get to a yoga class? There are many online options available for you to practise yoga in the comfort of your own home.
My friend, Monica Bruno has written a very informative article on how to get a little yoga into your day. I recommend this to you for further information.
http://www.monica-bruno.com/how-to-get-a-little-yoga-into-your-day-no-matter-what/
‘Namaste’
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17 Comments
The only time I’ve ever done yoga is at home. Usually watching a video or playing a workout based game. one thing I found doing yoga, I have the worst balance in the world.
Yes Jeffrey my husband (68 years old) has just started and he is improving. Great for our flexibility though and no one is watching so it doesn’t matter what we look like. LOL:)
I’ve often thought of trying yoga, but haven’t seriously looked into it. Never knew there were so many wonderful benefits. I need to give it a try.
Yes Mason, I’m a late discoverer of yoga and it’s benefits. I will never probably be a ‘yogi’ but I certainly feel great after a session – you should try it!
awesome post. I adore yoga and have been practising since I was 20. I love that you’ve listed all the benefits 🙂
I’ve only started Yoga in the last year so I’m way behind you Kalpanaa. I do enjoy it though and was surprised to find all the benefits that it provides. I’m a convert!
I’ve been reading about yoga in blogs all over the place lately Sue – it might be the universe trying to tell me something! I’ll be keeping my eyes open for a class nearby (haven’t seen any yet though) One day to go!
Yes it is becoming more popular again Leanne. I only started last year but I really feel physically so much better after a session and of course the mental benefits are an added bonus.
I too discovered Yoga in midlife too and I love it. Bryan Kest has a great Power Yoga DVD. My Y post is up http://atcad.blogspot.com/2016/04/yin-yang-yoga-kittens-atozchallenge.html
Oh thanks for the tip Alasandra – I will look out for the Power Yoga DVD. Thanks for stopping by and I’ll check out your post.
Coming from the land that is the birth-place of Yoga, I feel proud to read this! Indeed yoga is the most sublime and holistic approach to well-being. I would like to add here that the benefits of yoga will be all the more only when done under the skillful guidance of a trained instructor who will guide you correctly about the breathing techniques while performing each ‘asana’. A great post Sue!
@KalaRavi16 from
Relax-N-Rave
I agree Kala I should add that tip. I couldn’t breathe properly or clear my mind when I first started but I find now I understand how I can focus on breathing to push through and hold the pose for longer.
I can’t wait to start me new class. It’s been awhile and hoping the flexibility is still there.
Hi Michelle, it is always exciting starting a new class and I’m sure looking at your photos that you will still be flexible!
I just checked and we have something called Body Balance at my gym. Its not all yoga but it has some yoga in it! I just might give it a try, Sue!
Yoga is probably the only form of exercise that I actually enjoy. I’m at the computer constantly, so the stretching feels so good! And I love the philosophy of yoga that encourages you to proceed at your own pace – It’s YOUR journey… thanks for reminding me. It’s been a little while – time to get back to it!
Oh yes I love a good stretch Kimberly. When I started I thought I had to keep up with others until I realised that it is a personal journey. Now I enjoy my practice and get so much from it. Have a lovely day and thank you for visiting.