Yoga for Longevity
Written by Kathryn Savage
Yoga is beneficial as we age because it focuses on strength and balance without placing unnecessary pressure on joints and bones. 
Our Bones
As we age our bones become more brittle and cartilage between the joints wears out. Women, starting in their 30’s and continuing after menopause have a faster rate of bone dissolve, and develop thin bones more easily then when they were young. There are a host of drugs on the market today that are designed to strengthen brittle bones. New studies suggest that these drugs may not be as effective as was once thought. Some researchers are hypothesizing that these drugs may actually cause more harm than good.
Where yoga comes in...
Yoga is a popular form of movement that unites meditation, balance and strength training with focused breathing. It began in India as a way for people to connect and feel at peace with the world. Today, yoga is practiced throughout the world for reasons as diverse as weight loss and heightened spirituality. Yoga consists of posses that are practiced in a sequential order and held for several seconds or several minutes. Yoga is great for longevity because it strengthens the muscles and ligaments that surround bones and joints without putting pressure on bones and joints. Movements become more fluid and less stiff overtime.
Weight loss
Yoga is beneficial for weight loss because it tones and strengthens the body, while bringing greater attention to the mechanisms of the body. Heightened self awareness and easier digestion are some of the positive consequences of regularly practicing yoga.
Stress Reduction
Because yoga focuses on stamina, strength, breathing and meditation, studies suggest it is benefits sleep patterns and reduces stress.
Check with your doctor if you think there is any reason (high blood pressure, arthritis, risk of blood clots) that you should not be dropping by a yoga class near you!
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