Residents were introduced to the benefits of yoga without having to leave their seats as they were taken through a series of exercises by Ria, from the Chair Yoga Club.
Chair Yoga specialises in working with those with impaired mobility to improve fitness, flexibility, balance, strength and coordination. It relaxes body and mind and it contributes to better overall health and wellbeing. It has also proven to be beneficial for those with dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s Disease. The overall philosophy of the Chair Yoga Club is that ‘if you can breathe, you can do yoga!’
Every session starts with a breathing exercise, which our group found helpful in calming the mind and body.
A series of gentle exercises followed with a mix of movements and stretches that could also be done from a wheelchair. Some elements involved the use of equipment such as hand therapy balls and bands. Chair Yoga tutors also work with those who are confined to bed.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the session and felt the benefits – both physical and mental. As a result, we shall definitely continue with Chair Yoga on a regular basis. Ria, too, was delighted to have delivered such a well-received event. “I love collaborations, rather than working solo,” she said. “I’m really proud of what we do and how we do it.”