You're thinking about trying chair yoga, but you're not sure if it's right for you. Let's take a closer look at what chair yoga has to offer and some of the worries you might have about giving it a shot.
The Good Stuff About Chair Yoga
Getting More Flexible and Moving Better: Chair yoga helps you loosen up and move easier. It's all about gentle stretches and movements that make everyday activities feel less stiff and awkward.
Building Strength and Keeping Steady: Doing chair yoga regularly can help you get stronger and stay steady on your feet. That means fewer wobbles and a lower chance of taking a tumble.
Chilling Out and Feeling Calm: Chair yoga teaches you breathing and relaxation tricks that can help you chill out and lower stress. It's like hitting the relaxation button on your brain.
Soothing the Aches and Pains: If you deal with aches and pains, chair yoga might be just the thing to ease them up. The gentle movements can help you feel better and move more comfortably.
Making New Friends and Feeling Included: Joining a chair yoga class is a chance to meet new people and feel like you belong. It's like joining a little club where everyone's cheering each other on.
The Tough Stuff You Might Worry About
Feeling Too Stiff or Sore: You might worry that you're not flexible enough or that chair yoga will make you feel even stiffer. It's normal to have doubts, but chair yoga is designed to meet you where you are and help you get more flexible over time.
Worrying About the Cost: Money can be a concern when it comes to trying new things like chair yoga. But there are often affordable options out there, like community center classes or online videos, so you don't have to break the bank to give it a try. Look at Julia Marie’s YouTube for a soft gentle yoga you can do in your home.
Wondering if It Really Works: You might be skeptical about whether chair yoga can actually help you feel better. It's okay to have doubts, but many people find that it really does make a difference in how they feel and move.
Being Nervous About Looking Silly: Trying something new in front of others can feel a little nerve-wracking. But remember, everyone's there to support each other, and nobody's expecting perfection. It's all about giving it your best shot and having fun along the way.
Feeling Like You're Not Interested Enough: Maybe you're just not sure if chair yoga is your thing. That's okay! There are plenty of other ways to stay active and healthy. But if you're curious, it might be worth giving it a try to see how it feels.
Your Own Challenges and Limiting Beliefs
Despite its numerous benefits, seniors may encounter challenges and harbor limiting beliefs that prevent them from embracing chair yoga:
- Physical Limitations: Seniors with mobility issues or chronic health conditions may doubt their ability to participate in chair yoga. They may fear exacerbating existing injuries or feeling embarrassed about their perceived limitations.
- Financial Concerns: Cost can be a significant barrier for seniors considering chair yoga. Some may worry about affording class fees or investing in specialized equipment, especially on a fixed income. Try Julia Marie's classes for free.
- Skepticism about Effectiveness: Seniors who are unfamiliar with yoga may question whether chair yoga can truly deliver results. They may harbor doubts about its ability to improve flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.
- Fear of Judgement: Seniors may feel self-conscious about trying something new, especially in a group setting. They may worry about being judged by others or feeling inadequate if they struggle to keep up with the class.
- Lack of Motivation or Interest: Some seniors may simply lack the motivation or interest to start chair yoga. They may prefer other forms of exercise or leisure activities and see no compelling reason to try something new.
- I can’t bend with a belly full of food or I might throw up.
- I can’t touch my feet. Will I need shoes?
- I tried that. It didn’t work.
- I can’t take my shoes off. (You don’t have to)
- I can’t raise my arms.
- What if I have to go to the bathroom? (You get up and go and we probably all go, too!)
Taking the Plunge and Giving It a Go
You might have worries about trying chair yoga, but there are ways to ease your concerns and see if it's right for you:
- Start slow and take it easy. Chair yoga is all about going at your own pace and doing what feels comfortable. You should never feel pressured to do something that hurts.
- Look for classes or streaming resources that feel welcoming and supportive. Finding the right fit can make all the difference. Or, do it at home 5 minutes a day. (I started with 10 minutes a day and then moved up to 20. I never do more than 25 minutes a day because that's all I need to stretch out my cramping joints. I don't do those classes in the gym because they beat me up. I like slow and easy)
- Keep an open mind and give yourself permission to explore something new. You might just discover a new favorite way to move and relax. I always feel better after yoga. Even when I don't feel like doing it. I know in a few minutes my day will change and my body will love me for it!
Whether you're a senior or you care for a senior, always join in. It will double the rewards and minimize the excuses.
