Category — Seniors

Aging slows most people down thanks to aches and pains, arthritis, heart disease, fatigue and more. As our bodies naturally slow down, let us not use that as a reason to stop moving, and exercising to stay healthy. As the famous Chinese doctor and longevity specialist Ge Hong said almost 1,700 years ago: “The leather hinges of a moving door never rots, and flowing water never stagnates”.[i]

Although the aged may not run the New York Marathon, they can still participate in a variety of less physically challenging practices. Before starting a new exercise program check out tips from The American Academy of Family Physicians about how to prepare and engage in physical activities and talk with your doctor.

Qi Gong and Tai Chi

In China, the elderly practice Qi Gong and Tai Chi every morning. Not only do these practices keep the body in optimal health, but they calm and center the mind before getting on with the day. Qi Gong and Tai Chi are now practiced by people young and old all over the world.

Yoga

Yoga is a wonderful practice for seniors because it also calms and centers the mind while opening and strengthening the muscles. This yoga DVD called Yoga for Back Care is excellent for beginners and those who are in pain and need modified poses. And this DVD specializes in yoga for longevity.

Walking

Walking requires little of the participant other than owning a good pair of sneakers, yet yields great results. According to a study run by the University of Georgia, seniors who routinely walk are 41% more likely to reduce future disability and walkers increase independence as they age. That means walking can reduce future disability by nearly half! Many elder communities get together and form walking clubs which meet in the great outdoors or inside malls when the weather is poor.

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