Mindful Bodies

All of these aspects of yoga create an environment and personal relationship that fosters wellness and mindfulness.

Through engaging positions, meditation practices, or simple breathing exercises, we can observe and release emotional or mental distractions Swafford reminds us that the simple act of taking 6 deep breaths can help ground our moods and offer clarity through difficult situations.

Additionally, the dynamic movements of yoga are gentle ways of improving mobility and flexibility, particularly in older adults. Swafford notes that in seniors specifically, sedentary lifestyles can lead to discomfort and lack of mobility as muscles tighten and constrict without stimulus Simple yoga sequences can target stressed regions of the body and stretch tight muscles, joints, and connective tissues.

These exercises encourage movement in the body and improve mobility, posture, and pain associated with undue tension

In an example sequence for a class Swafford holds, he has his students perform a tailored sun salutation. These exercises could be performed seated or standing with nearby support depending on comfort and mobility Swafford begins his sequences with 6 deep, cleansing breaths to prepare the mind-body connection. Throughout the sequence, Swafford reiterates the importance of breathing to the motion Not only does this improve respiratory health throughout the exercises, but it also encourages that state of mindfulness. They’ll then reach their hands above their head to promote blood flow. Following this, they gently stretch from side-to-side and twist through their sides to engage the core and promote stability. Finally, they finish with a deep forward fold to hinge the hips and promote lower muscle flexibility.

When performing any of these, it's important to listen to your body and recognize what feels safe. Certain poses may not be appropriate or may need to be built up to, and that's okay. What’s important is that yoga and the incredible emotional and physical benefits it offers are accessible in some form to everyone.