Eighty two-year-old legendary Tamil actor Siva Kumar, is popular for being the father of two superheroes, Suriya and Karthi. Not only that, he is also famous all around the world because, at the age of 82, he is still in good shape. At this age, he can perform 68 asanas with elan and competence. His yoga videos on YouTube have gone popular, with over a million views.
As old age approaches, the body’s immunity begins to deteriorate. They become more susceptible to infections and other ailments. Not only that, chronic ailments follow and infiltrate the bodies as well. Older persons need to understand that it is critical to begin focusing on improving the body’s immunity through a variety of lifestyle adjustments. There are a variety of adjustments that should be done in order to keep fit, healthy, and strong enough to combat diseases and live a happy life, from walking in the morning to include more nutrition in the diet to committing time for fitness.
Yesteryear actor Sivakumar has given valid advice to older persons on how to maintain their health and age gracefully. He goes on to say, “Yoga is a guaranteed method to help you boost your immune system and provide a protective shield from any illness or other problems related to your health. Throughout the world, yoga is being seen as the best way to keep ourselves safe from viruses like covid. Practice Yoga postures like below, as a great way to improve your overall health, to enhance your immunity.” Says Sivakumar, the legendary actor.
He points out four yoga asanas that will help in boosting the immunity of the body.
Dhanurasana
Dhanurasana is named for the bow-like shape that the body assumes while practising it. Dhanu is the Sanskrit word for bow, while asana is the Sanskrit word for posture or position. A well-strung bow is an asset to a fighter, and a well-stretched body helps you maintain flexibility while maintaining good posture. As one ages, the bones get weaker and so most of the senior citizens complain of back pain. Dhanurasana strengthens the back and abdominal muscles. It stimulates the reproductive organs as well. It is also good as we all are dealing with the Covid situation in the world, thus this asana helps in opening up the chest, neck, and shoulders. The asana also tones the legs and arm muscles and adds greater flexibility to the back. For people who are suffering with renal disorders,
Dandasana – Dandasana, also known as the staff position, serves to stretch and activate the hamstrings, calves, and general legs, which helps to align the back spine.
Padhaastasana – Most common ailment people face after their sixties is of indigestion. The reason for this is that the immunity levels drop immensely. So practising Padhaastasana affects and stimulates the abdomen and the surrounding organs, which aids in the development of robust immunity. It also aids in healthier cerebral blood circulation. Paadhastasana also aids in the reduction of anxiety, sleeplessness, and exhaustion.
Samkonasana – This yoga asana helps in strengthening and lengthening the back spine. It also helps in boosting the blood circulation throughout the body.
Virbhadrasana – Beside enhancing the balance of the body, Virbhadrasana also helps in stretching the hips, groins, thighs and shoulders.
“Every elderly has worked very hard in their life to raise their children. Thus, it is important that their post- retirement days should be spent in peace and tranquillity. If one plans to age gracefully, it is essential to meditate for a few minutes every day. Mindful meditation promotes many physical and psychological benefits. The mental training practice offers a different way of dealing with stress, by calming the mind and body.”
(Geetha is the founder of PowerfulTeachers.com, an organisation that works for the welfare of the elderly)
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