In today’s fast-paced world, finding time and space for self-care can be a challenge. For many people, this means neglecting their physical health and wellbeing.
Luckily, chair yoga provides an accessible, enjoyable, and effective way to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of chair yoga and recommend the best free chair yoga class videos available online.
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Benefits of Chair Yoga
Chair yoga is a fantastic way for people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels to improve their overall health and wellbeing. Here are some of the most noteworthy benefits of this practice:
Improved Flexibility
Chair yoga incorporates gentle stretches that help increase your flexibility over time, making it easier for you to move and reducing the risk of injury.
Enhanced Strength
By engaging various muscle groups, chair yoga helps to build and maintain strength, supporting your day-to-day activities and making you feel more confident in your body.
Better Posture
Regular chair yoga practice can improve your posture, reducing strain on your spine and decreasing the likelihood of developing back problems.
Stress Reduction
Like other forms of yoga, chair yoga encourages mindfulness and relaxation, helping to alleviate stress and promoting overall mental wellbeing.
Top Free Chair Yoga Videos
There are many free chair yoga class videos available online, making it easy to find a practice that suits your needs and preferences. Here are our top picks:
1. Yoga Vista (aka YogaJP) – (1 Hr) Lively Chair Yoga Class with Tatis Cervantes-Aiken at Yoga Vista
The video is about an hour-long Chair Yoga class led by Tatis, which was filmed live at the Yoga Vista Studio.
The class involves various movements, such as twisting, reaching, and playing, and is designed to help improve balance, strength, and memory. The class is described as being fun and creative, making it a great choice for those who enjoy active and engaging Chair Yoga sessions.
2. Improved Health – Gentle Range of Motion Chair Exercises for Seniors (Arthritis/Limited Mobility/True Beginners)
This is an exercise class that is specifically created for older adults with limited mobility or for those who are completely new to exercise. The class is conducted while seated in a chair and involves low-impact movements.
The aim of the class is to help participants increase their range of motion, perform functional exercises, and get their bodies moving again. If you’re looking for a gentle way to improve your physical fitness and overall health, this class might be a good fit for you.
3. Moffitt Cancer Center – Gentle Yoga in the Chair
These are modified yoga exercises that can be done while seated on a chair and are specifically designed for people with cancer.
Gentle chair yoga helps improve flexibility, strength, and overall well-being while reducing stress and anxiety.
4. Yoga with Melissa – Chair Yoga Class with Sherry Zak Morris – Neck, Shoulders & a Whole Lot More!
This chair yoga class with Sherry Zak Morris focuses on improving everyday movements by exploring joint mobility, especially in the shoulders. It emphasizes limber joints and strong muscles to reduce aches and pains.
The class includes traditional yoga poses as well as movements applicable to daily life and is accessible for those who struggle with traditional yoga poses.
5. Yoga with Kassandra – Gentle Chair Yoga for Beginners and Seniors
This is a message to yoga enthusiasts, offering an easy chair yoga sequence that is suitable for people of all levels of experience. It is particularly beneficial for beginners, seniors or those with limited mobility.
Chair yoga is a gentle and gradual way to improve strength and flexibility, and all that is required is a chair, preferably one without arms and with back support.
6. PPMtv – PRIORITY ONE – Getting Started – 112
“Getting Started” is a low-intensity exercise program for all fitness levels that is practical for home use. It’s a good option for weight loss and senior fitness, and offers chair-based episodes for those with balance issues.
7. Brain Education TV – CHAIR YOGA | 10 Minute Daily Routines
This is a description of an easy chair yoga routine aimed at providing relaxation and stress relief, especially for those with limited mobility or in an office setting.
Practicing these gentle yoga poses while seated can help reduce tension, improve flexibility, and calm the mind.
8. Johns Hopkins Rheumatology – Yoga for Arthritis : Chair Yoga for Improved Mobility : Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center
This yoga sequence, led by Dr. Moonaz, involves moving all major joints in the body, making it a great way to reduce stiffness in the morning or as a warm-up before exercise or a longer yoga practice.
The movements can also be used throughout the day to combat stiffness or add movement to your routine.
9. Yoga With Adriene – Chair Yoga – Yoga For Seniors | Yoga With Adriene
Chair Yoga is a gentle and supportive way to improve mobility and posture. The 17-minute practice focuses on bringing awareness and integrity to the spine, activating muscles to help you find length and better energy flow.
This yoga is particularly beneficial for seniors and can be shared with friends to experience its benefits. It is a great way to find soft, gentle movements that support the body and promote overall wellness.
10. Bodsphere – 11 Minute Chair Yoga Practice | Chair Yoga for Beginners & Seniors | Easy Chair Yoga With Bodsphere
Chair Yoga is a gentle and supportive practice that aims to promote mobility, awareness, and integrity in the body, particularly along the spine.
This 11-minute practice utilizes gentle movements to activate muscles that help lengthen the spine, improve posture, and enhance energy flow. Chair Yoga is suitable for seniors and anyone who prefers a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on the joints.
Tips for a Successful Practice
To get the most out of your chair yoga practice, consider the following tips:
Find a Comfortable Space
Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can fully engage with your practice without distractions. Ensure that you have a sturdy chair, preferably without armrests, to allow for a full range of movement.
Listen to Your Body
Always pay attention to your body’s signals and modify poses as needed to ensure a safe and comfortable practice. Remember that it’s perfectly fine to take breaks or adjust the intensity of your practice as needed.
Practice Consistently
To see the most significant benefits from chair yoga, aim to practice consistently. Whether you choose to practice daily or several times a week, sticking to a regular routine will help you stay committed and see results over time.
FAQs
Is chair yoga suitable for beginners?
Yes, chair yoga is an excellent option for beginners as it offers a gentle and accessible introduction to yoga, allowing you to build strength and flexibility at your own pace.
How often should I practice chair yoga?
Ideally, you should practice chair yoga several times a week to see the most significant benefits. However, the frequency of practice may vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.
Can I practice chair yoga if I have an injury?
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have an injury. However, chair yoga is generally gentle and can often be modified to accommodate various physical limitations.
What type of chair should I use for chair yoga?
Choose a sturdy, stable chair without armrests, if possible. This allows for a greater range of movement and ensures you can safely perform the poses.
