Specialist yoga classes for older people
By Jayne Warren - 08/05/2008
Whether we actually practice it or not, most of us know that yoga is beneficial for both mind and body. But you'd be mistaken if you thought it applied just to the young or the super-fit, because it is older people who really stand to reap the greatest rewards - knee replacements not withstanding! We spoke to one yoga teacher who specialises in catering for the needs of older people to find out why.
Amanda Abbott, a qualified British Wheel of Yoga teacher, has been running 'mature' yoga classes in Bromley for four years, three times a week - so she knows what to look out for in terms of possible injuries, and how best to select the right type of yoga for each individual. She told the Mature Times: "I've been practising yoga for thirteen years, and like to teach in steady stages, building up to a yoga pose in a safe, progressive and mindful way.
My classes are mainly Hatha yoga, but I also draw on many other styles, such as Iyengar and Astanga yoga.
"I like to teach people how to listen to their own bodies, so if they feel the slightest discomfort they should stay at an earlier stage. I include flexibility, relaxation and strengthening work - and over the years I've seen how practising yoga can really help with a variety of ailments and I get nothing but positive feedback."
Antonia Boyle, an experienced yoga practitioner in her sixties, is one of Amanda's pupils. She said: "I first joined the class because I had had a full knee replacement and needed the time and space to adjust and recover - which I'm certainly getting in Mandy’s class.
"Her expertise and care for the special needs of older people is really excellent - and her students are devoted to her! It's great to see them pushing away the boundaries and limiting beliefs which are so often associated with getting older, and the benefits are clear in their show of confidence, physical abilities and mental calm."
Amanda also offers nutritional advice when requested, and is fully qualified in First Aid.
If you're interested, why not go along? The price is £6 per class on a drop in, pay as you go basis. Amanda supplies mats, blocks and blankets which is helpful for those who might have difficulty carrying them. The venue is: St. Marks Church Room, St Marks' Church, Westmoreland Road, Bromley, BR2 9AE.
Amanda also has other classes in the Sidcup area (see the website linked below), and would consider another 'older gentle' class if the situation arose. To contact Amanda call 0208 3089219 (home), or 07930 498392 (mobile)