How Injuries Can Happen When We Push Too Hard: A Lesson in Listening to Our Bodies
A great example of this is a close relative who’s in his 60s. An avid bowler, he’s been dealing with shoulder issues for some time and chose to delay shoulder replacement surgery. Instead, he increased his push-up routine to build strength around his shoulder. The plan seemed reasonable, but ultimately, it led to a torn bicep tendon, and now surgery is required. His experience offers a valuable lesson: while it’s important to challenge ourselves physically, it’s equally essential to listen to our bodies and take the necessary steps to protect them—especially as we age.
Bicep Tendon Tear
Aging with Wisdom: The Fine Line Between Challenge and Injury
The desire to feel strong and capable is something that doesn’t fade with age. However, our bodies become more delicate over time, and the risk of injury increases if we’re not careful. Our muscles, joints, and tissues may not recover as quickly as they used to, and we may not always be aware of when we’re pushing too hard.
This is where wisdom comes into play. It’s about recognizing when we can push ourselves and when we need to rest or seek alternative exercises that are easier on our joints. Yoga provides a perfect example of how to approach this balance. With yoga, the focus isn’t just on strength, but on mindful movement. Every pose and movement is done with awareness and respect for how the body feels in the present moment. Instead of aiming for the deepest stretch or the toughest pose, yoga encourages us to listen to our bodies and practice within our comfort zones. This can help us avoid overexertion and injury while still reaping the rewards of regular movement
Strong and Stable Shoulders – Chair Yoga with Alicia
It is said that we bear the weight of the world on our shoulders and sometimes it feels that way! The shoulders carry a lot of tension, and if that tension is not worked out and released, it can lead to shoulder immobility, chronic pain and even injury.
In this all-seated Chair Yoga class, Alicia takes you through the full range of motion of your shoulder joint. Not only will you enjoy fluid movements that encourage the flow of synovial fluid, but you will be working on strengthening the ligaments and tendons of the shoulders to keep them stable. The extra bonus of healthy shoulders is a strong and upright posture so that we can stand tall!
Finding the “We Still Have It” Feeling Through Mindful Commitment
So, how do we age with wisdom and still feel like we “still have it”? First, we need to understand that being strong doesn’t always mean pushing ourselves to the limit. Real strength is in knowing when to challenge our bodies and when to practice self-care. Yoga, in particular, allows us to achieve both: building strength while also embracing recovery and rest.
In my relative’s case, had he included more restorative practices like yoga, his shoulder injury might have been prevented or minimized. Yoga offers gentle stretches, mobility work, and strengthening exercises that help protect vulnerable areas, particularly joints. By combining strength-building poses with restorative practices, yoga creates a well-rounded approach to aging gracefully.
If you’re wondering how to begin or where to find safe and accessible exercises, YogaVista.TV offers a library of videos that meet you where you are in your physical and aging journey. With a team of expertly-trained yoga teachers, yoga therapists, and fitness instructors specializing in exercise for healthy aging, these videos are designed to be fun, effective, and easy to follow. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll find Yoga and Fitness routines that work for your unique needs.
How to Age Wisely, Stay Strong, and Prevent Injury
Aging doesn’t mean losing your vitality. In fact, with the right approach, you can stay strong, vibrant, and engaged in life for many years to come. By integrating mindful movement practices like yoga into your daily routine, you can find the perfect balance between challenge and self-care.
Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or just stay active, YogaVista.TV offers a wide range of safe, accessible workouts to help you maintain physical and mental wellness throughout your aging journey. By committing to movement that feels good and supports your body’s needs, you can continue to feel like you “still have it”—no matter your age.
Give this short Standing Sequence a try and see how Chair Yoga can make you stronger in safe ways!
Power Series to Keep Seniors Strong – Chair Yoga Standing Sequence with Sherry Zak Morris, C-IAYT
If you’re looking to stay strong and active as you age but want to avoid the risk of injury, this short Chair Yoga Standing sequence is a great option. Featuring a mix of Warriors, Push-ups, and Balancing Poses, this series helps you build strength and stability while using the chair for support. This allows you to try more challenging movements with less risk of overexertion.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this practice helps you find the right balance between pushing your limits and taking care of your body.
Yoga Snacks for the Neck and Shoulders
CREDITS: Author, Sherry Zak Morris, Certified Yoga Therapist
Editor, Maria Perez, Certified Yoga & Group Fitness Instructor