Interesting now it seems if you are in that age group of 50 and older that practicing yoga is a new idea. I just wonder who started all of this age division thing…. and better yet how we manage to distort the yoga tradition in such a way that it surprises us that people older than 50 can do it? On the other hand I hear; you do not have to be flexible to do yoga and if you can breathe, you can practice yoga! Somewhat confusing.
Certainly, older students will have different needs due to changes in their body but also I find they are interested in taking care of themselves and are more consistent and committed to their practice. Their schedules are more open and they have more freedom, as they seek the wellness path. Also some have been on that path for a long time and what use to work for them no longer does. Now they are ready for yoga…or at least willing to try.
It may all seem simple enough to find a yoga class but there are so many styles of yoga and the names given to them maybe unclear, so what class is best suited for the new student?
I believe that the term “Gentle Yoga” is largely misunderstood. This term is often used to describe yoga classes aimed at beginners and older students; what does it mean? Theoretically, Gentle Yoga is supposed to be less challenging then other classes, have a slower pace and more emphasis on the breath, that maybe true but once you are on the mat, all hell can break loose! All of a sudden you find the class moving in ways not possible for you, it’s like watching Cirque du Soleil, with words being used you cannot understand, so the best you can do is look around, try to move in your anxiety ridden state and hope to see the clock to start the countdown to get out!!
So what I recommend to those “50 and above” students is to take private yoga sessions, which really help you have a better understanding and a feeling of comfort vs anxiety. I make it a point to see all new students before class privately, especially if they are 50 and older before they join the class.
I am at the studio between classes Monday –Thursdays at 10:30 -11 to answer questions, please free to stop by.
Namaste
Certainly, older students will have different needs due to changes in their body but also I find they are interested in taking care of themselves and are more consistent and committed to their practice. Their schedules are more open and they have more freedom, as they seek the wellness path. Also some have been on that path for a long time and what use to work for them no longer does. Now they are ready for yoga…or at least willing to try.
It may all seem simple enough to find a yoga class but there are so many styles of yoga and the names given to them maybe unclear, so what class is best suited for the new student?
I believe that the term “Gentle Yoga” is largely misunderstood. This term is often used to describe yoga classes aimed at beginners and older students; what does it mean? Theoretically, Gentle Yoga is supposed to be less challenging then other classes, have a slower pace and more emphasis on the breath, that maybe true but once you are on the mat, all hell can break loose! All of a sudden you find the class moving in ways not possible for you, it’s like watching Cirque du Soleil, with words being used you cannot understand, so the best you can do is look around, try to move in your anxiety ridden state and hope to see the clock to start the countdown to get out!!
So what I recommend to those “50 and above” students is to take private yoga sessions, which really help you have a better understanding and a feeling of comfort vs anxiety. I make it a point to see all new students before class privately, especially if they are 50 and older before they join the class.
I am at the studio between classes Monday –Thursdays at 10:30 -11 to answer questions, please free to stop by.
Namaste