Thanks for your question. I also notice that I’m more prone to stiffness now, and have found yoga and simple stretching exercises to be the best methods for staying limber. I’ve tried several forms of yoga, and much prefer the slower and more meditative and deliberate styles of yoga over the faster and more rigorous power styles.
A few years ago, I came across a form of yoga called “The Thinking Body-The Feeling Mind®,” which was being taught locally by Molly Hagan. After talking with Molly and asking lots of questions, I signed up and began attending her class. This yoga felt so good for my body and my soul, and after just a few classes, I noticed less overall stiffness, more fluid movement, better posture, and a sense of deep core strengthening. I knew it was exactly what my body and I needed.
Since Molly is really the expert in this area, I asked her if she would address your question JS, and this is how she replied:
“You are not alone. As bodies age they become drier, inside and out. But we can keep the inside well lubricated with hydrating foods and liquids and movement. Moving is essential. I applaud you for looking into yoga. Yoga is a perfect system for self care. It can keep the body and mind young. This is important because we as a species are living longer. Our bodies and minds need to stay resilient and supple.
A yoga practice that cultivates conscious moving strengthens and lubes the body in ways that allow you to participate fully in all of your other physical pursuits. I am a big hiker and I love to dance. One reason why I practice yoga is so my spirit can pursue the physical pleasures it loves. It is never too late or too soon to start a yoga practice.
Yoga is a union of the mind & body, spirit & substance. This is done through concentrating on movement (or poses), the breath, and meditation. The older one gets, their ability to concentrate becomes greater. So be wary of vinyasa, flow, power, or ashtanga classes. These classes are designed for younger individuals who may need the extreme physical approach so their mind is completely occupied with the task. Your practice could be incredibly slow and simple, and your body and mind will unfold like a flower and strengthen like bamboo. Just because you may be able to do a fast paced extreme practice, doesn't mean you should. As my teacher Linda Lack PhD says, our bodies are our own precious resource.
In choosing a class, the teacher can be more important than the style of yoga they teach. Look for a teacher with experience (a teacher begins to hit their stride after 10 years). A teacher should meet you where you are in your development. You should not physically push yourself to keep up with the class. This is about your journey. The teacher should be able to make adaptations or suggestions to help keep you safe and involved. However, your safety is ultimately up to you. Rule of thumb: do only what feels good to do. If you don't feel good about doing a movement (whether physically, emotionally, or mentally), don't do it. At any point in time you should be able to rest in a relaxation posture. The teacher should allow, support, and encourage this kind of self-care.
I suggest talking with a teacher before attending their class. Ask about their experience and what and how they teach. Then pick a class that is non-competitive, informative, and small and welcomes beginners. If you can afford it, study with someone privately. In my opinion, look for styles like Viniyoga, Prime of Life Yoga®, The Thinking Body-The Feeling Mind®, Gentle Hatha Yoga or any teacher who has been strongly influenced by Krishnamacharya. Have a wonderful journey.” Molly Hagan, 50-year-old yoga therapist
I greatly appreciate this articulate advice from Molly, and I highly recommend her as a teacher. Her studio is located in Burbank, CA. Her website is http://www.mindinbody.net and her email is This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
I hope this information is useful for you JS and for all of my readers, and welcome your comments and experiences as you support your health and well being with yoga. Here’s to a supple and resilient midlife and beyond!
Your Life Coach,
Maddisen
Copyright 2011 Maddisen K. Krown M.A.
