Ideal Yoga Asanas For Seniors

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By Tim Chesbro

seniorwomanThe ancient practice of yoga is becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages, living across the world. Several people refer to yoga as a science of living, which can help cure several mental, physical and emotional problems. Some of the most common benefits that have been associated with yoga asanas or poses on a regular basis are weight loss, reduction in stress, increased immunity, additional strength, better balance, improved focus and many more. Hence, yoga can reduce the risks of suffering from heart problems, diabetes, and strokes, among other conditions, to a great extent. There are different yoga asanas that are suitable for people of all ages, right from children to senior citizens.

There are several senior citizens who are trying to explore different yoga asanas and their benefits. However, unlike children or younger people too, it is important to realize that senior citizens may have certain limitations and therefore cannot practice all yoga asanas. Moreover, there are some poses which could have an adverse effect on their body and therefore should be strictly avoided. Certain yoga asanas are ideal for people who are elderly and cannot engage in the more strenuous stretches. At the same time, these yoga asanas can improve those conditions and ailments that the elderly people are more prone to. Given below are certain yoga asanas and their benefits, for the elderly people:

Shavasana (The Corpse Pose)

• Improves conditions like sciatica or other backache related problems, as the makes those nerves and veins supple, which are connected to the lower spine

• Enables to entire body, including the nervous system to rest and relax

• Relieves stress and helps to rejuvenate the body

Bhujangasana (The Cobra Pose)

• Relieves certain digestive problems, such as constipation and flatulence

• Cleanses the body internally, right from the mouth, to the intestines

• Improves the overall appearance of the body, by making the stomach slender by reducing fat from the abdominal area

• Alleviates many types of back, kidney and liver disorders

• In women, it helps alleviate menstrual problems

seniorwoman2Naukasana (The Boat Pose)

• Strengthens the digestive system and relieves constipation

• Reduces the flab in the abdominal area

• Helps in the treatment of many lung diseases

• Increases strength in the legs, neck, back and shoulders

Uttanpadasana (The Foot Stretch Pose)

• Affects the legs, hips, thighs as well as the other parts of the body in a positive manner

• Restores the displaced center of the body (navel)

There are several yoga studios that are offering special classes for the elderly people. However, due to time or financial constraints not a lot of people can take up such classes. Fortunately, it is possible to get a lot of information on the correct way to practice such poses, through various means. Certain online resources also have yoga asanas animation clips or videos, with detailed instruction on how to perform each pose. However, it is best to avoid practicing any yoga asanas after dinner, or after any meal, as it could lead to problems. Hence, a time gap of at least two hours should be maintained between dinner and yoga asanas.

Elderly people are strongly advised to consult a doctor before taking up yoga. Please visit http://www.yogawiz.com for information about various yoga poses.

– Tim is freelancer & love to write about natural remedies, diet & yoga. He has very deep interest to explore natural solutions for various diseases.