Starting Yoga After 50: Answering Kali's Call to Begin Again
In yogic philosophy Kali is the goddess of time and destruction and while her symbology may appear intimidating, she isn’t destruction simply for destruction’s sake. She represents transformation, helping us to clear away that which no longer serves us, making space for growth and the opportunity to wipe the slate clear and begin again.
Her relationship to time reminds us that life is everchanging, children grow up, careers shift, retirement appears on the horizon and our priorities change. Kali invites us to redefine who we are beyond these pivotal roles we’ve played in our life. If you are looking to start yoga after 50, perhaps this is your invitation. We hope this blog encourages you in beginning your yoga journey.
Letting go of what yoga "should" look like
If you’ve ever seen a portrait of Kali you’ll know that she doesn’t represent perfection, her hair is wild and unbound. She is uncontained. Your first class doesn’t need to be perfect. Remember that everyone once stood where you now stand. There is no perfect age to begin. You might fall over in a balancing posture, you might forget what side comes next or what certain postures are called. Kali encourages us to have the courage to let go of those thought patterns that might encourage doubt and fear and instead embrace change and try something new.
Benefits of yoga in later life
Our bodies naturally change as we age. We may notice; stiffer joints, less energy, increased stress, changes associated with menopause or healthy ageing, a desire to slow down and reconnect.
These aren't signs that yoga is no longer for you. They're often the very reasons people discover it. Rather than fighting against change, Kali teaches us to work with change and transformation to work with our body to develop strength, mobility, balance, breath and awareness.
Yoga is known to have a number of benefits for our mind and body especially as we approach later life including:
Improving mobility and joint health
Building strength to support everyday movement
Enhance balance and coordination
Support bone health through weight-bearing postures
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleep quality
Create a greater sense of confidence and wellbeing
Discover the joy in movement
Rather than fighting against change, yoga teaches us to work with our bodies, developing strength, mobility, balance, breath awareness and resilience. It's not about becoming the person you were twenty years ago, it's about supporting the person you are today.
It's never too late to begin again
Beginning again can feel scary, Kali reminds us that every ending creates space for something new. If you're over 50 and wondering whether now is the time to begin yoga, perhaps this is your invitation. If you’re curious to discover more about Kali check out our Kali information hub.
Ready to start your yoga journey?
You can join us at the Kali Collective for yoga class. We teach a variety of classes from yin and restorative to aerial yoga to gentle vinyasa flow. If you are new to yoga we suggest joining one of our gentle yoga classes. You can join us in person at our fully equipped studio or online from the comfort of your own space. Our expert teachers will safely guide you through foundational postures and working with the breath. Visit our timetable or our class descriptions page for more information or to book your class, we can’t wait to see you.