Harnessing Yoga for Longevity: Top Three Poses to Stay Active and Healthy

Explore how yoga can contribute to a longer, healthier life through targeted poses. According to yoga expert Alison Reaume, regular practice enhances bodily strength, balance, and mobility—key factors in maintaining independence during aging. She highlights three essential poses: pigeon pose, boat pose, and low lunge, each designed to boost flexibility, core stability, and leg strength. Pigeon pose improves hip mobility and prevents stiffness, supporting healthy movement. To perform it, start on hands and knees, then slide one knee forward toward the wrist, and extend the opposite leg back, lowering your hips and holding the stretch for several breaths before switching sides. Boat pose strengthens deep core muscles vital for balance and spinal support. Sit with knees bent, lift your chest, and balance on your sit bones, extending your legs if possible, and hold for several breaths. Low lunge opens hip flexors and enhances posture. From a kneeling position, step one foot forward, align your knee over the ankle, and reach upward with your arms, holding the stretch before switching sides. Incorporating these poses into your routine can promote longevity by maintaining functional s...