Sally or Mars Re: Yoga..Have Question

[annie oakley]

I have some pretty bad arthritis in the knee's, hands , feet and neck...can I still do yoga..and if so..where do I start...I have heard this is very beneficial for pain related illiness and stress. I do some meditation and breathing practice. I would love to learn yoga...Love Oma

[Mars]

I don't practice yoga like I should although your statement is correct. It is low energy and stress on joints and can be done by people of all ages and with stiff muscles.

Here is what I do:
I set with my feet touching, knees bent and stretch my arms up, down and out and then place them at a comfortable place in my lap. (I can't set indian-style due to my knees hurting so bad - they get stiff)

I start with my toes, using my mind I make each part of my body relax; go up to your ankles; calves, knees, thighs. You get the picture - all the way up my body including my brain.

I breath by inhaling deeply and slowly and exhale the same. My mind is cleared of EVERYTHING but my relaxing of each part of my body.

I have a book around here somewhere that teaches the actual exercises and will find it for you.

Good luck! I hear the proper exercises are very good for artheritis. I need to begin to exercise after the relaxation technique. Let me know if you find something that works for the aching.

[Sally]

Margie is correct. Sometimes when I need to use yoga as a stress reliever, I just lie down on the floor or the bed and do my deep breathing and then starting with my toes I start to relax my body all the way up to the top of my head.

I have arthritis in my hips, but sitting with a small cushion under my butt seems to relive any pain. If you try this and feel any pain, stop. Yoga is not supposed to be painful. I can sit Indian style for a long time like this. then I meditate. The main thing is to quiet the mind and the spirit.

Good luch and lots of love,

Sally

[annie oakley]

Thank you both of you. The breathing I already do when I meditate...I will look for a yoga book. Love Oma