A gentle path to better health for seniors

Staying active is es­sential at any age, but for senior citizens, traditional forms of ex­ercise can feel intimi­dating or even unsafe. That’s where chair yoga comes in - a gen­tle, accessible form of movement that adapts traditional yoga poses using a chair for sup­port. It allows seniors to improve their health and well-being without needing to get down on the floor or worry about balance.

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Gentle movement with big benefits

Chair yoga helps im­prove flexibility, which naturally decreases with age. Through slow, intentional stretches, participants can in­crease their range of motion and reduce stiffness - especially in key areas like the shoulders, hips, and spine. For those with arthritis or joint pain, the low-impact move­ments provide relief without strain.

It also builds strength. Holding poses, lifting legs, or reaching with the arms can strengthen core muscles and improve posture. Better muscle tone leads to better balance, which helps reduce the risk of falls - a major concern for many older adults.

Supports men­tal and emotional health

In addition to physi­cal benefits, chair yoga offers powerful mental and emotional support. Focused breathing and relaxation techniques calm the mind, reduce stress, and can help ease symptoms of anxi­ety or depression. This mind-body connection supports greater emo­tional resilience and promotes a sense of inner peace. The calm­ing effects of breathing and movement can also help regulate sleep patterns and improve overall restfulness.

Accessible and Com­munity-Oriented

One of the best things about chair yoga is its accessibility. It requires only a stur­dy chair and a small amount of space. No previous experience, special clothing, or equipment is needed, making it easy to start at home or in a group setting.

Chair yoga classes also provide a social connection, helping seniors combat loneli­ness. Whether in per­son or online, practic­ing with others fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

Local seniors can find chair yoga classes at Kane County’s Ac­tive Living Center locations in Kanab and Orderville. Want to try it at home first? Visit YouTube and search for “chair yoga for se­niors” for a wide vari­ety of instructional and follow-along videos.