O is for Osteoporosis

Bones are living, organic dense layers of tissue. Cells within our bones are constantly breaking down and rebuilding. Osteoporosis and osteopenia (a condition which can potentially but not necessarily lead to osteoporosis) are conditions when cells start breaking down more than they rebuild leading to the bones loosing strength which can in time increase the chances of fractures. Although bone density starts slowing down as we get older it stands to reason that so long as bone is a living fibre we have the power within us to nourish our bodies frame. With the right food, exercises and lifestyle we can improve the quality of our skeleton.

Yoga includes weight bearing postures and standing positions which strengthen our muscles supporting our skeletal frame, most importantly our spine. Suppleness is as important as strength, as we stretch and release fascia, the connective tissue which hold our form in place creating room for movement and support. Picture a patch of earth which hasn’t been watered, it crumbles at the touch yet when you put water onto that patch of earth it becomes denser and slides around as one. This is what yoga does it waters the connective tissues creating a more solid, fluid and connected body.

Yoga also gives us better awareness and balance which can prevent falls. I will never forget when Nanny who had been practicing yoga for years slipped down a hill. She literally did a forward roll then bounced back up with an oopsie-daisy. I’m pretty sure that if that fall would have happened to someone with less agility and balance it would have been less amusing.

Yoga also helps you become more present and gives a sense of calm. Asanas such as Savasana and more restorative positions can lower levels of cortisol which breaks down bone when levels are high.

Fishman conducted a study in 2015 published in Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation which provided evidence that yoga can delay bone degeneration. https://yogainternational.com/article/view/yoga-sequence-for-osteoporosis