The stigma surrounding Yoga is that it's "easier for women" to practice that are "already physically fit" between the "ages of 18-30." But the truth is Yoga can benefit many more than just women. Yoga has benefits for men, seniors and even kids!
Yoga For Men - Men, who are probably the most reluctant group to begin practicing Yoga are surprised by its awesome effects. In fact, men find themselves incorporating Yoga into their daily or weekly exercise routines. Yoga can help men increase their muscle power, stamina and flexibility. The best news for men is that Yoga does not have any prerequisites. Men don't need to be overly flexible or insanely strong. By way of combining deep stretches, relaxation and focus on the breath, men will find themselves less stressed both in body and mind. If relaxation or stress reducing methods aren't working, just maybe Yoga will!
Yoga for Pregnant Mothers - Mothers expecting a new baby are perfectly able to practice yoga. By focusing attention on the linear muscles along the inner thighs and groin can often times ease labor pain and body positioning. Learn more about types of poses and what to focus on by trimester in our Pregnancy Yoga section of this website.
Yoga For Seniors - If you have never practiced Yoga before, then taking things slowly is advisable. And specific classes geared toward senior participants are a great place to start your journey with Yoga. Also, due to the more tender nature of bodies over the age of 65, always seek guidance from your health practitioner prior to taking your first class. Gentle yoga practice, such as Hatha Yoga, will help to strengthen and lengthen muscles. Increased blood flow is also another benefit because Yoga aims to "create space" between the vertebrae in the spine. By creating this space, blood can pump more freely and better elasticity in the joints induces free movement. Practicing Yoga can also promote increased attention span and improve your memory. All great reasons for seniors to practice Yoga.
Yoga For Kids - Yoga for kids can be great fun. Due to the fact that Yoga poses are often time named after animals, kids will have no problem remembering "Monkey" pose and "Eagle." Yoga for kids can also allow them to relieve stress and exert some pent up energy as it requires them to slow down and hold positions for 1 minute at a time. Learning that stretching is important at an early age will prepare kids for future activities such as outdoor / indoor sports, dance and physical fitness. Regular yoga practice for children may make them calmer and able to relax much quicker, especially if signs of early aggression is present. It's important to discuss Yoga with your child and educate them on the benefits of Yoga both as a youth and as an adult.
...And of course!
Yoga For Women - Yoga can assist in weight loss as well as toning the body, building muscle and increasing your overall level of general fitness. Yoga can also be practiced during and after pregnancy. Certain yoga postures can help strengthen the back. Other postures will help to reduce stress and anxiety. Breathing exercises are always useful in preparing for the birth. Yoga postures can also help with menstruation and menopausal problems. Always consult a doctor and qualified yoga practitioner before undertaking any yoga practice.
Above is an basic outline of general benefits that Yoga can bring to people of all sexes and ages. Yoga is also said to have many healing qualities alongside the physically challenging ones. Yoga tests the limits of our major muscle groups as well as our minds. The challenge lies in you and your ability to calm the body and remain still; so still that the connections between body and mind are realized during your practice. As you progress, you will soon realize connection between the mind and body that may even promote healing. To read more about Yoga and its complements to orthodox medicine, read: Yoga of Heart: The Healing Power of Intimate Connection by Mark Whitwell.
