What is chair yoga?
Chair-based yoga is the practice of yoga sitting or standing near a chair. The asanas (poses) are adapted to a chair when a person can't, or doesn't want to, be on the floor. It can be practised anywhere with a suitable chair (or seated in a wheelchair), and while a few props may come in handy - they aren't essential.
What are its main benefits?
As with most forms of yoga, community and inclusion are central to chair yoga. The value of creating a space for people to be together cannot be overstated. It greatly benefits the nervous system and enhances our sense of safety and ability to learn and retain information.
Physically, chair yoga maintains and improves mobility, decreases pain, and in some cases, promotes independence through asanas that support daily living, such as walking, standing, getting dressed etc. In addition, the postures are usually simple and easy to practice at home to improve well-being.
Who is it for?
Chair yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, size or ability. However, because of its gentle nature and how accessible it is, it mainly attracts people who are older, less physically able or chronically ill. Where there is paralysis or difficulty in moving, straps or ties can be used to mobilise the legs, or a partner can work with the practitioner to gently move the body.
Below I list some specific populations or challenges and explain how chair yoga can help. This is not an exhaustive list by any means!
Older Adults
Improve strength, flexibility and balance
Promote better mental health
Support the nervous system
Support immune system
Prevent falls and injuries
Offer some community and fun
Maintain and enhance mobility and independence
Manage and reduce pain
Improve posture
Build confidence
Improve circulation
Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis
Correct posture
Weight-bearing exercise (using the weight of own limbs)
Strengthens the leg muscles to support bones
Joint mobility and lubrication
Improve balance and coordination
Reduce inflammation, aches and pains
Learn to distinguish between discomfort and pain
Increase awareness to reduce harmful movement
Stroke Recovery
Improve strength, flexibility and balance
Improve proprioception (the sense that lets us perceive the location, movement, and action of parts of the body)
Improve circulation
Build confidence
Promote functional movement
Support the nervous system
Community and fun
Dementia
Promote functional movement
Increase standing strength
Improve balance
Enhance focus and coordination
Fun and friendship
Promote independence and a sense of wellbeing
Chronic Pain or Chronic Illness
New ways of managing pain
Connection and support
Relaxation
Potential pain relief from therapeutic movement
Calming the nervous system
Multiple Sclerosis
Improved balance and coordination
Increase standing strength
Reduction of inflammation, aches and pains
Community and connection
Hand and foot mobility and improved circulation
Tame pain response
Relaxation and wellbeing
I love teaching chair yoga, it is always a beautiful experience, and we always have a lot of fun. I'd encourage everybody to give it a go - and for anyone who identifies with any of the above, it really can be life-changing. My classes include a chat at the start, gentle movement, self-massage, breath work and (the best bit) a lovely relaxation at the end. Carers can stay for free and have a quiet catch-up on the sofas or (if preferred) support the student through the class.
What do I need to wear and bring with me?
You can wear whatever you like if it allows easy movement. Leggings, jogging bottoms or slacks are good - with a vest/T-shirt and sweatshirt on the top. A blanket can be nice in the cooler months for relaxation at the end of class.
Chair yoga class is on summer break; you can arrange a 1:1 session by contacting me.
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