This website explores how yoga informs and is expressed in the process of aging. There is so much wisdom in the yoga tradition . . . how can it help us thrive as we age?
About the blog
The physical practice of yoga (asana) has become an incredibly strong support for many people as they age. But yoga is more than that. It includes meditation, breath and ethical practices. How can these support our thriving as we age? (More here . . .)
About Jenifer Cartland
I am a long time yoga practitioner, and also a yoga teacher and therapist. AND, I am aging, so this blog is as much about me discovering the journey as it is supporting others. (More here . . .)
How to study with Jenifer
I live and work in southwest Michigan. I am available for online classes, workshops and private sessions. Look over my current teaching schedule or contact me.
How the blog is organized
There are four main types of posts on the blog. New posts arrive 2-3 times per month.
‘Field notes‘ are my own reflections as I work through questions and thoughts on getting older. You don’t have to practice yoga to enjoy these, but I do often refer to yoga philosophy, as well as any other good thinking I am lucky enough to run across. And this is where I post any poems that come forward as I ponder the aging process (my poetry blog is here in case you would like see more of my poetry). If there is a topic you would like me to explore, I would be happy to.
‘How-tos‘ include ways to deepen or start a yoga practice. There are many, many books and manuals out there to cover how to practice yoga. These posts focus on things that I find are missing in a lot of books and manuals, or that I have learned on my own along the way — just little things that might help you out.
‘Practices‘ include some audio (meditation) and video (asana) practices that I have found particularly helpful in dealing with common problems in my own aging process, or that my students have responded to well. They are not meant to replace a full practice. Like the How-Tos, these are little practices that I have learned over the years to be helpful.
‘Book reviews‘ are just what they sound like. As in the yoga world, there are MANY books on aging well. These posts are really just meant to help you wade through all these different books. If there is a book you would like me to take a look at, please let me know!
