Yoga can provide both physical and mental benefits to those of all ages.

September is National Yoga Month and according to the American Osteopathic Association, some of yoga’s benefits are increased flexibility, muscle strength and tone, improved respiration, and it can improve mental health such as managing stress.

Amy Kleese, Wellness and Fitness Director at the United Presbyterian Home in Washington, says that these days people don’t breathe as deeply as they should, and that is one focus of her instruction, “We try to get everyone to be more aware of their breath starting with just a natural breath. I often tell my students to think about breathing like a baby when they’re asleep and find that rise and fall of their abdomen and then kind of get into the flow with that. Then we go into a much deeper breath where they’re completely filling their lungs and then completely emptying their lungs, and that’s how we start every class and that’s how we end every class, just really getting in touch with our breath and then letting go of that tension.”

Kleese teaches yoga for those 55 and older, which is modified for participants’ ability. Kleese says some practice yoga from a scooter, some from a chair, and some attend simply for the enjoyment of the breathing exercises and relaxed atmosphere. Learn more about the UP Home’s yoga classes here.