Yoga

Forget the backbends and headstands. That's really not what yoga is all about. It's about aligning the mind, body and spirit. It may not even be that for you. When I began practicing yoga, it was about relieving some of the discomfort behind my knee after a total knee replacement. I quickly learned it helped the aches and pains of arthritis. Then I found it reduced tension from a stressful job. Now, I appreciate how yoga has guided me toward more mindful thinking in all parts of my life. On the pragmatic side, it has has helped me to grow more flexible (so I can reach things up high or down low), given me the ability to pick my arse up off the ground if I fall, and improved my balance so I don't end up on the ground so often!

One of the big turnoffs for me early on was asking mostly younger yoga instructors what challenges I might face, you know, being in my sixties with replacement parts and more to come, and the answers were similar, "Everyone has challenges. Age doesn't matter." Okay, that's just BS. You know, and I know, that exercise as one gets older is a completely different experience than when we're in our twenties, thirties, and forties. Yes, almost anyone can practice yoga, but as we age we may need to modify asanas and add props because of our body's limitations. This doesn't decrease the practice's benefits, at all.

In the coming weeks and months, I'll be offering classes in Fort Valley, but I can refer you to a great studio off the mountain. Just drop me a line. If you're wondering what kind of gear you need for yoga practice, read below. Of course, you're welcome to email me if you have any questions or concerns.

Wear something comfortable, like shorts, sweatpants or leggings on the bottom and a comfy shirt on top. You may want to start with a second layer on top that you can take off as you warm up. Keep in mind that you'll want to wear shirts that keep you covered up even in Downward Dog! Yoga is usually practiced with bare feet to prevent sliding on the mat, but socks are okay if you're more comfortable with them on.

We always practice on a mat, but you may also want a bolsters, two yoga blocks, a yoga blanket, and a strap. Blocks and a yoga blanket will probably be used in every class. However, rather than investing in these items before you even know if you LIKE yoga, you may use a beach towel or small blanket for a mat and a pillow to use as a bolster.