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What is Chair Yoga and who is it for?

Liz Quinlisk | FEB 21, 2024

Are you curious about what chair yoga is? I get a lot of questions about chair yoga so I'll address some of them here.

Why should I practice yoga?

As our lives become increasingly busy and fast-paced, taking care of ourselves can sometimes take a backseat. This can result in a variety of physical and mental health issues, such as poor posture, back pain, stress, anxiety, and more. One way to combat these issues is through the practice of chair yoga, which is a gentle and accessible form of yoga that can be done by people of all ages and abilities.

What is chair yoga?

Chair yoga is a type of yoga that adapts traditional yoga poses and sequences to be done while seated on a chair or using a chair for support. It is a modified version of traditional yoga poses, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including those with limited mobility, injuries, or chronic conditions.

In chair yoga, a chair is used as a prop to support the body and help with balance. The poses are designed to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and relaxation. Breathing exercises and meditation may also be incorporated.

If you know you'd like to join us for an upcoming chair yoga class, you can register below:

Upcoming Online Chair Yoga Classes

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What are the benefits of chair yoga:

  • Improved Flexibility: Chair yoga can help increase your range of motion and flexibility, especially in areas that may be tight or prone to stiffness, such as your hips, shoulders, and spine. Over time, this can help you move more easily and comfortably in your daily life.

  • Increased Strength: While chair yoga is a gentle form of exercise, it can still help you build strength in your muscles, particularly in your core, arms, and legs. This can be especially beneficial for older adults or people with mobility issues who may have difficulty with traditional strength-training exercises.

  • Better Balance: Many chair yoga poses focus on improving your balance, which can be a key factor in preventing falls and other injuries. By practicing balancing poses in a safe and supported way, you can gradually improve your stability and reduce your risk of accidents.

  • Improved Posture: Poor posture can lead to a range of health issues, such as back pain, headaches, and fatigue. Chair yoga helps improve posture by strengthening the muscles in your back and shoulders, which can help alleviate these issues.

  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Like all forms of yoga, chair yoga includes breathing exercises and relaxation techniques that can help calm your mind and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Regular practice may also help improve your mood and overall sense of well-being.

  • Accessible for All: One of the great things about chair yoga is that it can be adapted for people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or just looking for a gentle way to stay active, chair yoga can be a safe and effective option.

What can I expect in these classes?

  • Personalized and Skilled Instruction: As a trained yoga instructor and physical therapist, I will be able to provide personalized instruction and modifications based on your individual needs and abilities.

  • Community and Support: By attending a class, you will be able to connect with others who are also interested in improving their health and well-being. This sense of community and support can be incredibly motivating and uplifting.

  • Accountability: By registering for a class you are making a commitment and you are more likely to stick with the practice and see the benefits of chair yoga over time.

  • Fun and Enjoyment: Chair yoga can be an enjoyable way to take care of yourself. By attending your class, you will have the opportunity to learn new movements and techniques that can bring joy and positivity into your life.

If these benefits sound appealing to you, consider signing up for a chair yoga class. In these classes, we'll explore a variety of chair yoga poses and sequences, and you'll have the opportunity to connect with other students in a supportive and welcoming environment. Whether you're brand new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, I believe you'll find these classes both enjoyable and beneficial.

Liz Quinlisk | FEB 21, 2024

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