What is up (or down) with balance?

Most people notice a shift in their ability to balance between ages 40 and 50. During class this week, a student asked why as we age, does balance become more challenging? Great question. I did a little research.

Arthritis, sensation changes in the legs and feet as well as the vestibular system in the inner ear becoming less fluid with age seems to be our main culprits. What can we do to help stay safe as we move through the world? 1 in 3 people will experience a fall each year! Yikes!

Well, for starters, keep practicing Yoga!!! Do it in bare feet and do it often. The good news is your balance, strength, endurance and flexibility can be improved with age. There's also some cool specific exercisesto try when you can't be at yoga class. :)

I always teach a comprehensive yoga practice, but this week we focused in a bit on challenging our balance. Like most things, we see improvement with time and repetition. We're going to keep up with that good work as we move into a new week. Yay! I also like how our balance practice is more than just physical. We can boost our confidence, develop a sense that we can handle all of life's challenges, navigate climates of stress and change. Anyone?? We build resilience when we challenge ourselves incrementally and often. We learn to breathe through discomfort and to trust that we will find our way, even if that means a few wobbles here and there. We're building resilience, patience and compassion too. Hope you can join me! It'll be fun!