Yoga for the Not So Young: Slow and Gentle Practices Season 1 Episode 5 Gentle Stretch

Yoga for the Not So Young: Slow and Gentle Practices is a TV show created to prove that yoga is for everyone, including those who may not consider themselves young anymore. Its aim is to break the myth that yoga is only for the young and fit. On season 1 episode 5, we are presented with the gentle stretch practice.

As we grow older, our bodies tend to become stiffer, and we lose the flexibility we once had during our younger years. However, this is not an excuse not to move. On the contrary, it is essential to stretch and move to maintain our mobility and independence. That is where the gentle stretch practice from Yoga for the Not So Young comes into play.

The gentle stretch practice episode is an invitation to move, stretch, and breathe. It features a 35-minute yoga practice that incorporates elements of Hatha and Yin yoga. The episode comes with a warning that says, "Please listen to your body and modify the poses as needed." This is vital because the gentle stretch practice is designed for people who may have limitations such as arthritis, back pain, or injuries.

The episode starts with a brief introduction by the host who explains what to expect from the practice. She then invites us to get comfortable in our practice space and to grab any props such as blankets, blocks, or bolster if needed.

The gentle stretch practice begins with a seated warm-up that focuses on the breath. The host reminds us to inhale and exhale slowly, deeply and to focus on our breath throughout the practice. She guides us through gentle neck stretches, shoulder shrugs, and wrist rotations.

The host then moves us to a seated spinal twist. This pose helps to release tension in the back and stretch the hips. She gives options for different variations of the twist to accommodate different body types. What follows this pose is a seated forward fold that stretches the entire back of the body while also calming the mind.

After the seated forward fold, we move onto all fours. The host leads us through cat-cow movements that stretch the spine and warm up the back. We then move into a modified child's pose, which is a restful pose that soothes the mind and stretches the hips.

The host then introduces standing poses, starting with the mountain pose, which establishes a strong foundation before moving on to the warrior series. She guides us through warrior one, warrior two, and peaceful warrior poses, which stretch the legs and open the chest and shoulders.

The gentle stretch practice ends with a Yin pose called supine butterfly. We lie on our backs and bring the soles of our feet together, letting our knees fall open. This pose releases tension in the hips and groin while also calming the mind.

Throughout the practice, the host emphasizes the importance of listening to our bodies and moving mindfully. She encourages us to modify any poses that feel uncomfortable and reminds us that the practice is not about perfection but about finding ease and comfort in our bodies.

In conclusion, the gentle stretch practice from Yoga for the Not So Young is a beautiful episode that encourages us to move, stretch, and breathe at our own pace. It is a great reminder that yoga is for everyone and that it is not about perfect alignment or a specific look. The gentle stretch practice is a fantastic entry point for people who may feel intimidated or believe they are not flexible enough to practice yoga. It offers a safe and inclusive environment for those who want to move their bodies mindfully.