For the elderly, benefits of yoga include increased muscle mass

As Americans age, they are at greater risk of losing muscle mass and bone density, a process that can lead to osteoporosis and decreased quality of life. Participating in Dahn Yoga can slow this process through tai chi, qigong and the moving meditation system known as brain wave vibration.

Recently, a study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that Americans over age 50 who engage in progressive resistance training, as well as the stretching or bending poses of yoga, can gain an estimated two and a half pounds of lean muscle mass in 18 to 20 weeks.

http://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343(10)00927-7/abstract

The study was initiated to see what sort of exercise might help mitigate the progressive muscle loss associated with aging. Researchers said that in the U.S., a sedentary adult over age 50 can expect to lose nearly half a pound of muscle each year.

The team concluded that progressive resistance training and practices like yoga can encourage good health and help minimize the muscular atrophy that comes with age.

Individuals of any age can utilize Dahn Yoga as part of a holistic mind-body health system.

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