Chair yoga classes for seniors are growing in popularity. These classes are now being offered in yoga studios, retirement communities, senior centers and community centers around the country. Seniors aren’t the only ones who can benefit from these poses.
People with previous injuries or some health conditions can benefit from the gentle stretch provided in these classes. The modification of the asanas is useful for people with less flexibility or range of motion, regardless of age.
People with rheumatoid arthritis benefit from a chair yoga class, whether they are seniors or younger. Arthritis makes it difficult, if not impossible, to get on your hands and knees on a yoga mat. Many people have found improvement in their arthritis after beginning a yoga practice.
Rather than a mat, the poses are done while seated in a chair or semi seated and using the chair for support. The yoga teacher instructs students on modified versions of many of the poses typically found in a hatha yoga class. Nearly any pose can be modified to use a chair, other than the more advanced headstand and shoulder stands.
Don’t expect a strenuous workout from a chair yoga class. It is good exercise, but not anything like a power yoga class. The rhythm of the class is closer to a gentle stretch hatha class than to a more advanced practice.
Like any other type of yoga class, there is no competition or pressure to perform every asana perfectly. Each student moves at his or her own pace, with guidance and support from the instructor, as needed. The practice can be tailored to fit the needs of the individual student.
As this type of yoga practice continues to grow in popularity, more seniors will be able to experience the health benefits of yoga. Practicing yoga, whether on a mat or in a chair, helps to increase flexibility, strength and offers a feeling of well being that is beneficial at any age.