In a time when ailments such as arthritis, rheumatism, incontinence, high blood pressure and the overall degeneration of the body are on the rise, performing the mild practice of yoga should be of high priority.

With age, our bones and joints get weaker, and balance deteriorates. It affects us, with mild depression settling in as we witness our bodies ageing. Yoga slows down the ageing process by softening the muscles and maintaining flexibility.

It is a versatile exercise, milder than other forms of exercise and hence suitable for the elderly. It improves balance and strength of the muscles thus reducing degeneration. It helps improve the flexibility of the body thus helping the elderly to move around independently.

TRIKONASANA / TRIANGLE POSE

Hip problems and blood pressure are very common among seniors these days. Try the triangle pose that helps to strengthen and stretch the hip region and regulates blood pressure.

KATI CHAKRASANA / STANDING SPINAL TWISE POSE

A great yoga asana to shed unnecessary fat from the waistline as well as the lower abdomen. It is the recommended yoga pose to solve the problem of constipation. It helps to contract and expand the muscles of the neck, back, and abdominal wall and gives a smooth massage to the entire vertebral column. It strengthens the shoulders, neck, arms, back, and thighs.

TITLI / BUTTERFLY POSE

This asana helps in stretching the spine and thus relieves sciatica. It also helps in regulating digestion. This pose helps in solving the most common problem of joint stiffness and pain. Regular practice can keep you free from all kinds of aches and pains.

BALASANA / CHILD’S POSE

Child Pose releases the tension built up in the back, chest, and shoulders. It keeps them alert by driving away dizziness. It helps older people both in dealing with stiffness and leading an anxiety-free life.

MARJARIASANA / CAT POSE

Cat pose is very beneficial for elderly as it combines breathing exercise with physical movements. It is also very helpful in making the elderly improve mobility easily and without pain, helps improve digestion and getting rid of excess stomach flab. The stretching relaxes the mind and removes all stress and strain.

BHUJANGASANA / COBRA POSE

This pose help people work quickly and carefully. It elevates their mood and cheers them up to get up and do something fun. It increases their body flexibility, thereby improving mobility. Improves blood circulation that weakens with age. It helps seniors feel full of energy. Practicing this pose helps to strengthen the back muscles and shoulders.

SALABHASANA / LOCUST POSE

This asana helps in increasing flexibility of the neck and back muscles thus strengthening arms, thighs, shoulders, legs, calf muscles, and hips. It also helps to reduce stress and tension and is also helpful in improving digestion

PAWANMUKTASANA / WIND – RELIEVING POSE

This asana helps in releasing trapped gases and improving digestion. It helps to stretch the back and neck. It also helps to increase blood circulation to the hip joints, and releases tension in the area.