Modern media may have you believe that yoga is simply made up of physical poses and meditative, spiritual practices, but this is far from the case. Research has shown that yoga is beneficial to our overall health. Yoga encompasses a wide range of disciplines, the majority of which do not include physical exertion and instead rely on gentle, self-reflection methods.
At the GreenFields, we strive to create an environment that meets the interests and needs of our residents. We have a plethora of activities to keep our residents active and engaged through many social activities including daily exercise classes such as our yoga or YMCA Exercise Club taught by certified and experienced instructors. Take a look at some of the benefits yoga has to offer, and see if implementing the practice into your daily routine is right for you.
Improves your flexibility
One of the main reasons people begin their practice is for better flexibility. Flexibility is an important component of physical health and can prevent or relieve joint pain. Yoga seems especially helpful for improving flexibility in adults 65 and older. A 2021 study found that yoga both slowed down the loss of flexibility and actually improved it in older adults.
Assists with sleep
A consistent bedtime yoga routine can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep for longer periods of time. Yoga positions that can improve sleep are Hatha yoga – which focuses on breathing and restorative poses like laying or sitting positions. Breathing is one of the most important aspects of many types of physical exercise, and yoga is no exception. Adjusting your breathing can help put your mind at ease and get you ready for some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Enables many long-term health benefits
Yoga can help with a wide array of health problems, including back pain, arthritis, and heart complications. It can ease pain through stretching and improve mobility, especially in those who may have lower back pain. Simple yoga poses, such as the cat or cow pose have been shown to ease some of the tension in swollen joints. It may also help reduce stress levels on the body, and inflammation, including high blood pressure.
Helps manage stress
Yoga can also help with stress. According to the National Institutes of Health, yoga has been shown in studies to help with stress management, mental wellness, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss, and quality sleep – all things that can help you in your daily life.
Provides more energy
After establishing a yoga practice, you may experience enhanced mental and physical energy, a stronger and longer attention span, and fewer negative feelings such as depression. Having a routine where you can feel accomplished will only add to those feelings of self-worth and accomplishment. This can lead to more positive feelings and promote better self-care.
Brings connections with a supportive community
Yoga lessons can help to alleviate loneliness and create an atmosphere for communal healing and support. Classes can make learning fun in an atmosphere that encourages challenging yourself with like-minded individuals. To learn more about assisted living services offered at GreenField Court, visit thegreenfields.org/assisted-living. To learn more about independent living at GreenField Manor, visit thegreenfields.org/independent-living or call (716) 684-8400 today.
About The GreenFields Continuing Care Community
The GreenFields Continuing Care Community provides for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of residents in a Christian environment. In addition to skilled nursing, subacute rehabilitation, and outpatient therapy at GreenField Health & Rehabilitation Center, The GreenFields offers a variety of living arrangements and support levels based on individual needs. This includes independent living apartments in GreenField Manor; assisted living apartments in GreenField Court; and memory care and enhanced assisted living in GreenField Terrace.
