In Community. Add Yoga.

Referring to this study:

J Am Geriatr Soc. 2017 Mar;65(3):592-597. doi: 10.1111/jgs.14717. Epub 2016 Dec 23.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Chair Yoga on Pain and Physical Function Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Lower Extremity Osteoarthritis.

Park J1, McCaffrey R2, Newman D3, Liehr P3, Ouslander JG4.

I read this article recently published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. The title is quite a mouthful.

"A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Chair Yoga on Pain and Physical Function Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Lower Extremity Osteoarthritis."

Click the  title above to go to the article.

And click HERE to see the conclusions summarized.

My takeaway:

The study demonstrates that older adults in a chair yoga class, led by an instructor, had physical improvements not reported in the control group. However, the benefits were largely not sustained after the end of the eight week study. Most participants  did not continue to practice on their own. 

My conclusion, community matters. Networks sustain us.  Social interaction is beneficial for all, and especially for folks who may be more isolated. The practice of yoga can be a solitary experience. The practice does encourage turning inward, becoming mindful of your self.  But yoga class is an opportunity to meet friends and share experiences   Classes are very helpful. A teacher provides instruction and support and students work together. The instruction in class frames the experience and encourages the experience. 

Practice yoga anywhere, any time. Practice as you wait for the traffic light to change (but keep your eyes open!) Practice as you push away, for a moment, from the computer. Practice on your mat, in your kitchen. But also, find others with whom to practice.  

Find support in community.