Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 95 the aging process is far more voluntary—under your control— than you may realize. It is not the process of aging that creates tension and discomfort but the result of our modern lifestyle. We tend to believe that aging means growing weak and tired when in reality we grow weak and tired if we fail to sustain a healthy level of physical activity along with deep rest. Between seven and nine hours of sleep per night is ideal for the average adult in order to prevent premature aging. Are you sleeping enough? Yoga for the Forest Dweller (aka Baby Boomer) should transition to a gentler physical practice to aid the body's recovery from a lifetime of use and perhaps overuse, abuse and injuries. is does not mean passive practice. In fact, at this stage a well-balanced yoga practice should include elements of functional alignment, strength building, muscle toning, breathwork, flexibility, balance and agility. ere's no need to eliminate challenging poses as long as they are modified to ensure joint safety and stability. Moving slower and more mindfully allows for much needed individual modifications along with a deeper connection to the benefits made possible. THE FINAL STAGE (75 – 100) IS THE RENUNCIATE OR, AS I LIKE TO CALL IT, SAGEDOM. is is the time to detach from the world in pursuit of self-realization, immersing in spiritual practices that make for a graceful exit, greeting death as simply another stage of life. Yoga practice for the Sage moves more into the realm of meditation and contemplation, along with the continuation of physical care. Keeping these four stages in mind, you may recognize how a person can remain attached to one stage or another, such as never wanting to grow up and take on responsibility or never releasing responsibilities to enjoy retirement. We live in a society that rewards busyness and believes we should stay young forever sending the message that aging equates to growing old. Yes, we age, but we can also remain vibrantly alive. e full development of each stage is imperative for a smooth entry into the next. We don't actually leave anything behind. It all becomes integrated into the tapestry of our life. How can you create balance through the practice of yoga in your life? MY ADVICE: Focus on that which truly aligns with the stage in which you are living. Be true to yourself and enjoy the transition through all ages while honor- ing the Sage within. EXCERCISE & UNWIND Warrior Three Vertical

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