Growing Older and Growing Wiser

Ageing as a practice of self-respect

Ageing is often presented as something to resist. Yet many people find that as the years pass, they become more patient, more discerning and more compassionate. This is growing older and growing wiser.

In this post we look at how yoga invites us to see aging not as decline, but as refinement.

What changes — and what deepens

The body may ask for:

• more gentle strength
• more rest
• more mobility and balance work

At the same time, we often gain:

• greater self-knowledge
• emotional resilience
• clearer priorities

Practices like gentle yoga, face yoga, and meditation enhance circulation. They support posture and elevate mood and confidence. These practices are not intended to turn back time. Instead, they help us live well in the time we are in. Growing older and growing wiser in the process.

Have a go yourself…

1. Sit or stand tall and feel your feet on the ground
2. Roll your shoulders slowly up, back and down
3. Lift your chest slightly and soften your face
4. Take three slow breaths
5. Think of one thing your body has carried you through — and silently say thank you

Grace begins with appreciation.

Keep active and keep going

In the UK, the NHS recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity. It also suggests doing strength and balance exercises twice a week to prevent falls.

You can read more about this on the NHS website here

Join our caring community

If you are ready to care for yourself in a consistent, nurturing way, I offer online sessions. These sessions are slow, accessible, and welcoming. They are especially helpful for those who feel they are “not very bendy”. They also suit those who are returning after a break.

Your health commitment can be straightforward. Take one class a week. Focus on one breath at a time. Make one kind choice for your body.

See my timetable here

Join my online community with plenty of free video and audio recordings