ForLifeYoga® - Chair Yoga + Otago
ForLifeYoga® Programme was designed by The Traditional Yoga Association® to specifically offer all aspects of Yoga ~ including its physical and philosophical aspects ~ to the fastest growing demographic of those aged 65 years and over. It is also suitable for persons with limited mobility or anyone who would like to try yoga in a gentle way. The aim is to make movement accessible and effective as well as make use of the many benefits yoga provides.
Along with the specially chosen and adapted yoga asanas (postures), done seated on a chair or standing (or even on a mat if that is accessible to participants) the classes incorporate the OTAGO Exercise Programme. This evidence-based training programme is designed to improve balance and prevent falls, a major cause of injury as we age. Research has shown that OEP is the leading falls prevention programme. In addition to this, the classes offer the Yoga breathing exercises that are suitable for people of 65+ . Also included are the meditation and mindfulness practices that have demonstrated their ability to assist with issues like stress, anxiety, depression and mild cognitive impairment.
Last updated Feb. 18, 2025, 11:02 a.m. UTC
My journey with yoga began more than 15 years ago, when I discovered its healing power for my body and mind. Due to our crazy modern lifestyle and different stressors, I went through a period of bad health. I realised that there was one space that I kept returning to in order to find relief from it all - the yoga mat. The soothing
effect that the practice had on my body was amazing. Yet, the calming effect it had on my mind was even greater. I was becoming more aware of my body, all the areas where tension was stored and especially my breathing patterns (or lack thereof)! I loved the rediscovered feeling of how everything within us is interconnected, all the layers, and not just the physical body!
Experiencing something that has had such a profound and transformative effect on your life is a great motivation to want to share it with other people. With the encouragement of my then teacher, I enrolled onto the teacher training, and the rest is history as they say!
I gained my qualification with the Traditional Yoga Association™ under Swami Ambikananda’s guidance. I feel honoured and privileged to be part of this lineage and tradition. I’m a member of the TYA™, fully insured and First Aid trained.
Although passing my teacher’s exam was one of the best moments in my life, I feel I am a forever student - continuing to attend workshops, training and CPDS with uninterrupted enthusiasm!