It’s Episode 3 of How’s Your Boomer? we’re talking about movement and mobility, which is essential for everyone, but critical to aging well. Which is why I tapped my guide to yoga (for 14 years now!) and all things balance, strength and staying upright and relevant: Jyll Hubbard-Salk, founder and owner of Urban Asanas Studio in Brooklyn, NY, to chat about movement (and more).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults 65+ get a mix of aerobic, strength and balance activities totaling 150-minutes a week. The most effective method I’ve found to serve up that fitness trifecta is yoga.
As much as yoga is asana and postures, there’s a whole spirituality that’s in yoga. It’s not religious, but I want to teach people how to be kind to themselves and be kind to the world. I think that’s what we need.
Jyll is trained in Hatha, Thai, Iyenger and Kula yoga and recently launched her one-of-a-kind Heart Forward Foundations Teacher Training Program through the American Yoga Council. Jyll instructs folks at every stage and age — including seniors at a local community center. As Jyll says: Movement has no number. And, you don’t have to be local to get in on her heart-forward-ass-back practice. I highly recommend streaming a live class wherever you come to your mat.
Jyll has the bona fides of 30+ years of teaching and it shows. She is masterful in reading the room, no class is ever the same and she always tells it straight (which keeps us laughing). But, where Jyll excels and what keeps folks returning to the mat with her is the community she’s created. It radiates and ripples out like warming rays from the sun, and I always feeling better having stepped into that light.
No matter how you move, find a community (Boomers: check your local YMCA or senior center) that will welcome you and hold you accountable. It’s why I’m part of a running group (and frankly running at all) and why Urban Asanas is my home for yoga. Here’s hoping you find your space for movement or, if you have one, share it in the comments to inspire others, too.
You’ve got to show up for yourself. You’re not showing up for me… because I show up for myself. Just come with an open mind and an open heart and have no expectations.
I’ll be rolling out new episodes weekly. If you want in on the conversation, subscribe for free here or follow on Spotify and Apple podcasts.
