Yoga After 30+

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One often comes across people who hold apprehensions about being either too young or too old to take up yoga. However, experts insist that as a discipline, yoga offers a wide range of benefits to people of all age groups. The truth is that yoga needs to be altered to suit the body as it ages and undergoes transformation. There are several branches of yoga and a variety of techniques that cater to people of different age groups. One must adopt a style depending on which point in time they decide to practice it.

While the 20’s are associated with heightened energy and flexibility, the 30’s are the start of the process of slowing down of the body. Yoga is often being associated with complicated postures and demanding routines and thus, is viewed apprehensively by those approaching the third decade of their lives. However, ancient Indian scriptures point it out as the ideal form of physical and mental fitness for older adults to practice. Besides, most changes to the body till the age of 35 are not radical and it is possible to focus on intense physical activity upto this period.

The weakening of bones and the loss of vitality is one of the most common occurrences in a body entering the 30’s. Compounded by a reduction in muscle mass, the body is exposed to a number of consequent ailments. Hence, yoga exercises during this period must be designed to increase bone and muscle strength and to make one feel relaxed and re-energized.

Weight gain is yet another issue, especially for women post 35 when there is a sharp increase in weight and an apparent difficulty in losing flab. Regular practice of yoga has been found to avert weight gain affiliated with aging.

The most discerning change for most people entering their 30’s is a new lifestyle - marriage, children, work-family balance – and the associated stress. Adults in this age group begin experiencing, often for the first time - weakness, muscle cramps, back pain, headaches and blood pressure. Yoga helps to balance the central nervous system, thus normalizing blood pressure. The breathing techniques cleanse air passages, help in the prevention of respiratory ailments and help to lower stress levels.

Seeking the advice of a qualified instructor is advisable as it can help one customize the techniques of yoga to suit their individual age and goals. Following a philosophy known as ‘gradualism’ will allow first-timers to take a step-by-step process to advanced yoga.

The most important piece of advice for practitioners is to understand your body and respect its limits. While its important to build strength and endurance, it is of even greater importance not to push your body to the point of injury. As one ages, the body becomes less supple and healing takes longer.

Yoga, for those approaching the age of 30, must be designed to calm down the mind even as they exercise the body. It must help one deal with changing lifestyle habits and must prepare them for a fitness regime well into their twilight years. One must not forget that the practice of yoga goes much deeper than just physical fitness. As one grows older and goes through the journey of life, their perspective on life keeps changing. Yoga helps to channel their experiences through laying a foundation to the overall physical and spiritual well-being.