Yoga and Healthy Aging
I was recently discussing how good yoga is at building and maintaining body strength with our local Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor. Then, a few days later an article popped up in my morning ABC newsfeed that captured my attention.
The University of Queensland (UQ) has reported that longitudinal studies in the UK and US found that physical frailty precedes dementia by around 9 years! According to Ageing and Geriatric medicine specialist, Dr Ward, people “who maintained better health and function across their mid and later life were more likely to preserve their brain health and prevent dementia”. While there are no promises, there is clear research that healthy ageing is much more likely when we engage in activities that result in: Good muscle mass, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Huberman Lab Good respiratory function (lung function and breathing), James Nestor Improved balance, B. Pettersson et al How fortunate that we can achieve all three health outcomes by practicing Yoga regularly: Hatha and Vinyasa for muscle strength, flexibility, balance and breath Yin Yoga for joints, connective tissue, and anti-fragility All Yoga for improved lung function however Vinyasa practice has a focus on cardiovascular fitness. Improved balance is fundamental to Yoga Asana and is the foundation of all movement. Yoga is a holistic practice and we also benefit from Mindfulness, Meditation and Non-Sleep Deep Rest to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and provide space for healing, improved sleep quality, better mental health, and a healthy balanced life.
How brilliant that Yoga provides a sustainable pathway to healthy aging, physically, mentally and psycho- emotionally. The evidence is clear, the earlier in life we start, the better. Having a regular, long-term, committed practice is the key to deriving optimal health outcomes. Take a moment to ponder your current yoga practice. Could you be doing more?
Reach out to know more on how you can deepen or enhance your practice to optimise your health outcomes.