Yoga Stories & Blog

Week #2 is now availalbe. Another 7 Day Chair Yoga Workout.

🔥 Don’t miss my hottest video yet

– check it out below! 🔥

July 5, 2025

This Is the Only Chair Yoga Program You Will Ever Need!

If you’re looking for a complete, easy-to-follow fitness routine, look no further — I’ve created a 28-Day Chair Yoga Workout that has everything you need! Each day features a carefully crafted session focused on flexibility, strength, balance, and relaxation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned senior, this program is all you’ll ever need to stay active, safe, and energized — no gym, no floor work, and no guesswork! Just grab your chair and follow along. – $40.00

June 9, 2025

New Virtual Chair Yoga Classes from your own home!
Starting in September 2025
And if you can’t make it live to the class, I will send you a recording that you can watch and replay as often as you like for the week.

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June 26, 2025

June 19, 2025

Join us for 6 Minute Standing Flow for Chair Yoga, a quick and energizing routine that emphasizes gentle standing poses while using your chair for support. This session focuses on improving balance, strength, and flexibility through fluid movements that engage your entire body. Ideal for a refreshing break, this flow will help you feel revitalized and ready to tackle the rest of your day!

July 9th to August 20th.

May 28, 2025

How to Safely Add Weights to Your Chair Yoga Routine

Adding weights to your chair yoga can boost strength and flexibility, but safety is crucial. Follow these tips for a safe and effective practice:

    Start Light – Begin with small weights (1-3 lbs) or household items like soup cans to ease into resistance training.

    Maintain Good Posture – Sit tall with feet flat on the ground, engaging your core for support.

    Controlled Movements – Avoid jerky motions; move slowly and mindfully to prevent strain.

    Focus on Breath – Coordinate breathing with movements to stay relaxed and avoid tension.

    Listen to Your Body – If you feel discomfort or pain, reduce the weight or modify the exercise.

Chair yoga with weights can be a fantastic way to build strength while staying gentle on the joints! 💪🪑 Want a guided session? Check out this video.

5 Moves

Here are five great exercises to start incorporating weights into your senior chair yoga routine:

Try 2 sets of 8 reps for all of them.

• Always warm up for 3–5 minutes

Here are all the details for these 5 moves using weights. Click below to see the document.

New! Starting Wednesday, July 9th

Email Me to Register: chairyogawithandre@yahoo.com

May 27, 2025

“Holy Cow, That Feels Good!”

Cat-Cow in a chair is a silly and fun way to stretch your back while sitting down!

It is like giving your spine a gentle morning stretch and a happy sigh — all while staying comfy in your seat. On the inhale, you arch your back and lift your chest like a curious cow peeking over a fence; on the exhale, you round your spine like a sleepy cat stretching after a nap. It’s a simple, feel-good move that keeps your back limber without ever needing to touch the floor!

May 22, 2025

Quick Visual Guide

Quick Visual Guide: “Best 10-Min Chair Yoga Class Ever”

Here’s a simple visual guide to go along with my YouTube video “Best 10-Min Chair Yoga Class Ever”. Keep this guide somewhere handy and feel free to do the class as often as you like — your body will thank you!

✨ Ready to follow along? Watch the full class here:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0XyjOenzB4

Move gently, breathe deeply, and enjoy!

Yoga T-shirts and other products are now available to order at Andre9999.redbubble.com. Show your support for Chair Yoga with Andre by wearing comfortable, stylish gear designed for wellness and movement. Explore a variety of designs perfect for yoga enthusiasts and active seniors!

Redbubble is a global print-on-demand (POD) online marketplace where independent artists and designers can upload and sell their artwork as decoration on various products. Customers can purchase items with these designs, and Redbubble prints and ships the products directly.

May 19, 2025

Squat or Chair Pose

— What’s the Difference?

They may look similar, but Chair Pose and a traditional Squat are two very different experiences for your body!

✅ Squats are all about power:
Your hips drop way back, knees stay behind the toes, and the focus is on glutes and hamstrings. Often done as a dynamic exercise (up and down), it’s all about depth and drive.

✅ Chair Pose is all about control and lift:
You hover as if sitting in an invisible chair — hips are more upright, knees may come forward slightly. This static yoga pose strengthens quads, core, shoulders, and back, improves posture, and promotes balance.

💡 Remember:
A squat is a movement.
A chair pose is a posture.
Both have their place — it just depends on your goal.

May 15, 2025

The Great Figure 4 Debate,

by Andre Beaulne

To Press the knee or not to Press the knee.

Read my Final Thoughts below or open the document and see all the details.

Final Thoughts: To Press or Not to Press Down on the Knee?

The simple answer: It depends — but in most cases, caution is the wiser choice.

✅ Consider Gentle Pressure Only If:

You have healthy hips and knees

You’re pain-free and familiar with your body’s limits

You have experience with the posture and know how to modify if needed

❌ Avoid Pressing If:

You’re over 60 and unsure about your joint health

You’ve had hip or knee surgery, arthritis, or experience sciatic discomfort

You’re applying pressure out of habit or to keep up with others

💡 Safer Alternatives to Deepen the Stretch

Let gravity do the work: Allow the leg to open naturally without added force

Use props: A strap, block, or cushion can support the pose while protecting your joints

Prioritize alignment: A well-aligned, gentle stretch is more beneficial—and safer—than a deeper one done incorrectly

In Chair Yoga, the goal isn’t to force—but to move mindfully, adapt intentionally, and honor the body as it is today.

— may your hips stay open and your joints supported.

May 9, 2025

Breathing is one of the most powerful tools we have in yoga—not just for oxygenating the body, but for calming the mind, supporting movement, and creating awareness. Two of the most commonly used breath techniques in yoga are belly breathing and side rib expansion breathing. Each serves a unique purpose and is best used in specific situations during your practice or daily life.

Belly Breathing vs. Side Rib Expansion Breathing: What They Are and When to Use Them

Let’s explore the difference between these two powerful techniques and when to use each.
What Is Belly Breathing?

 Belly breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, is a gentle and natural way of breathing where the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, allowing the belly to expand outward on the inhale. On the exhale, the belly relaxes as the air is released.

  Benefits of Belly Breathing:

• Activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” state)
• Reduces anxiety and stress
• Encourages full oxygen exchange
• Helps with sleep, digestion, and relaxation
• Grounds and centers you during stillness

🕊️ When to Use Belly Breathing:

• During restorative yoga or yin yoga
• In meditation or mindfulness practices
• While lying down in Savasana
• When you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious
• Before sleep or when calming the mind and body

💡 Try placing one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. As you breathe, let the belly hand rise while the chest remains still. That’s belly breathing!

What Is Side Rib Expansion Breathing?

Side rib expansion breathing, also known as lateral thoracic breathing, focuses on expanding the ribcage outward and slightly upward. Instead of letting the belly rise, this technique encourages the breath to move into the sides and back of the ribcage, activating the intercostal muscles (between the ribs) along with the diaphragm.

 Benefits of Side Rib Breathing:

• Promotes core stability by keeping the abdominal wall more engaged
• Encourages better posture and spinal alignment
• Expands lung capacity in all directions (front, sides, and back)
• Supports movement in standing or active yoga poses
• Useful in Pilates, strength training, and flow-style yoga

🧗‍♀️ When to Use Side Rib Expansion Breathing:

• During standing poses like Warrior, Triangle, or Tree Pose
• While practicing flow or vinyasa yoga
• When you want to engage your core
• During Pilates or functional movement training
• Anytime you need breath awareness without destabilizing your center

💡 Try placing your hands on the sides of your ribs. As you inhale, feel your ribs expand sideways into your hands. This strengthens the breath-muscle connection and improves postural support.

April 29, 2025

Senior Chair Yoga and the Side Bend: How to Do It Right and What to Watch For

Chair yoga is a safe, effective, and accessible way for seniors to improve flexibility, strength, and mobility. One of the foundational movements in senior chair yoga is the side bend. This pose gently stretches the side body, improves spinal mobility, and helps release tension in the neck and shoulders. When done correctly, the side bend offers a refreshing and grounding experience. However, like all movements, it must be performed with attention to alignment and safety, especially for those with limited mobility or chronic conditions.

How to Do the Side Bend Correctly:

1. Sit upright in a sturdy chair with feet flat on the floor, hip-distance apart.
2. Place one hand on the side of the chair or your thigh for support.
3. Reach the opposite arm up toward the ceiling, keeping the shoulder relaxed.
4. Gently lean over to the opposite side, keeping both hips grounded on the chair.
5. Keep your gaze forward or up, depending on neck comfort.
6. Breathe deeply for 3–5 breaths, then return to center and switch sides.

What Could Go Wrong:

• Overreaching: Trying to bend too far can lead to straining the lower back or overstretching the ribs and shoulder.
• Lifting the Opposite Hip: This reduces the effectiveness of the stretch and can destabilize your position.
• Leaning Forward or Twisting: Instead of bending directly sideways, some people may unintentionally lean forward or twist, which can cause discomfort in the spine or strain in the neck.
• Neck Tension: Looking up too far or forcing the head back may cause tension or dizziness.

Tips for a Safe Practice:

• Move slowly and listen to your body—avoid any sharp or pulling sensations.
• Keep both feet grounded and both sitting bones firmly on the chair.
• Only reach as far as feels comfortable; it’s about opening the side body, not touching the floor.
• Support the raised arm with a pillow or block if needed.
• If you have osteoporosis, spinal issues, or balance concerns, consult a medical professional or instructor before performing deep bends.

Chair yoga side bends, when done with care, are a gentle and empowering way to restore mobility and maintain independence. With mindful attention, this simple movement can bring great benefits to the aging body.

April 26, 2025

Three Essential Spine Stretches in Senior Chair Yoga
(Simple Moves for a Happy, Healthy Back)

Your spine works hard every day — standing, sitting, and trying to keep you upright while you search for your glasses. It deserves a little love! These simple chair stretches help keep you flexible, strong, and feeling your best.

Questions & Answers about the 3 Spinal Stretches

Q: Can I do these stretches every day?
A: Absolutely! Your spine loves daily attention — just like your favorite pet or your morning coffee. Gentle daily stretches help keep you flexible, ease stiffness, and boost circulation. Listen to your body, and if it feels good, keep it up!

Q: How long should I hold each pose?
A: Hold each position for 3 to 5 slow breaths. If that feels good, you can stay a little longer — but think “gentle stretch,” not “world record attempt.” Move smoothly and breathe deeply, and always come out of the pose slowly.

Q: Are these stretches better for a warm-up or a cool-down?
A: Good news — they work for both! Use them at the start of your practice to warm up the spine and wake up your body. Or, use them at the end of a session (or a busy day) to cool down, release tension, and melt into relaxation. Your spine wins either way!

1. Seated Cat-Cow (Wake Up Your Spine)

Sit tall in your chair, feet flat on the floor, hands resting on your knees.
Inhale: arch your back, lift your chest, and tip your gaze upward (this is your proud “I remembered where I parked” pose).
Exhale: round your back, pull your belly in, and tuck your chin (think “curling up with a cozy blanket” feeling).
Move slowly with your breath for 6-8 rounds.

Benefits: Warms up your spine, improves posture, and gives your back a gentle “good morning” stretch.

2. Seated Twist (A Friendly Spin)

Sit tall, place one hand on the opposite knee and the other on the side of your chair.
Gently twist your torso to one side without yanking yourself around — you’re stretching, not wringing out a dish towel!
Hold for a few breaths, then return to center and twist to the other side.

Benefits: Loosens up your spine, massages your organs (bonus!), and helps you look over your shoulder without turning your whole body.

3. Seated Side Stretch (Reach for the Sky… and Maybe the Remote)

Lift one arm up overhead, palm facing inward.
Gently lean to the opposite side, feeling a stretch along your ribs and side body — imagine you’re reaching for the world’s coziest pillow.
Hold a few breaths, come back to center, and switch sides.

Benefits: Stretches and strengthens your sides, improves breathing space, and makes simple things (like reaching that top kitchen shelf) a whole lot easier.

Final Note:
A few minutes a day keeps the stiffness away! Grab a chair, breathe deeply, and stretch — your spine will thank you with fewer creaks and more pep.

April 26, 2025

Easy Stuff

All you need to start your chair yoga journey is a good, sturdy chair — preferably one that doesn’t roll away mid-pose.

Your chair is your new yoga buddy. It won’t judge you. It won’t laugh when you grunt getting into a twist. It’s loyal, supportive, and honestly, a much cheaper therapist.

A good chair in chair yoga is like a trusted sidekick. Batman had Robin. Sherlock had Watson. You? You have a reliable, four-legged friend that holds you up while you stretch, breathe, and wonder why you thought yoga pants with pizza slices on them were a good idea.

For yoga, you want a throne that says, “I am strong, dependable.”

In the world of chair yoga, it’s not about how flexible you are — it’s about how fabulous you look while sitting.

So find yourself a good chair, sit tall, stretch wide, and remember: if you fall off, just call it “advanced practice.”

Let the good vibes flow.

April 25, 2025

April 24, 2025

Stick With It: Make It a Habit – With Andre’s Chair Yoga Classes

Whether you join Andre in person or online, his Chair Yoga classes make it easy to stick to a routine that fits your life. Set a time each day—maybe it’s with your morning coffee or as a relaxing wind-down in the evening—and let Andre guide you through gentle, effective movements from the comfort of your chair. His warm, encouraging style helps you stay consistent, whether you’re in a studio or at home.

Every session builds strength, improves flexibility, and offers a moment of calm just for you. So pull up that comfy chair, breathe deeply, and let Andre help you turn chair yoga into your favorite daily habit. You’ve got this—and Andre’s got your back!

A habit is important because it creates consistency, which makes it easier to achieve goals without relying on motivation or willpower alone. When something becomes a habit—like daily chair yoga—it becomes a natural part of your routine, helping you build long-term benefits like better health, reduced stress, and a greater sense of well-being, almost effortlessly.

April 17, 2025

In my first video, I utilized a script generated by ChatGPT after asking for the best 10-minute senior chair routine ever. This AI-driven approach allowed me to create a structured and engaging routine tailored specifically for seniors, ensuring that the exercises are both effective and accessible. In contrast, my second video features the “Andre Best 10 Min Senior Routine,” which I crafted using traditional pen and paper, reflecting my personal touch and experience in chair yoga.

April 11, 2025

Coming soon are my exciting 10-Minute Challenge Videos: Andre vs. AI Chair Yoga Class, where you’ll get to experience a fun and interactive yoga session that pits my expertise against cutting-edge technology!

Senior Chair Routine Challenge: ChatGPT vs. Andre

My Process for Creating the Ideal Senior Chair Yoga Routine

Let me share how I crafted the perfect senior chair yoga routine with the help of ChatGPT. First, I began by asking for the best 10-minute senior chair yoga class. This initial request provided a solid foundation to work from. Next, I sought five additional routines to expand my options and ensure variety in the exercises. To make sure the routines were distinct, I requested that no similar moves be included, aiming to avoid repetition of the same exercises. As I continued refining the routines, I emphasized that I wanted to exclude difficult moves to ensure they were suitable for seniors. I also specified that there should not be too many arm exercises repeated across the routines. After reviewing the options, I asked ChatGPT, “Are you sure this is the best routine?” This prompted further refinement and consideration of the exercises included. Finally, to create a comprehensive routine, I asked ChatGPT to combine all the samples provided thus far into a cohesive final version. This collaborative process resulted in a well-rounded and engaging chair yoga routine tailored specifically for seniors.

My Experience with ChatGPT for Senior Chair Yoga Routines

Recently, I turned to ChatGPT to help me find some effective chair yoga routines suitable for seniors. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it provided me with multiple routines, each designed to enhance flexibility, strength, and relaxation. The responses were not only prompt but also contained a variety of exercises that were easy to follow and implement.

Variety and Adaptability

One of the standout features of the routines was the variety of moves included. ChatGPT offered different sequences, incorporating stretches, strengthening exercises, and breathing techniques. However, I noticed that some routines had similar moves repeated across different sessions, such as arm swings and arm raises. While these exercises are beneficial, the repetition sometimes felt unnecessary.

Challenge and Accessibility

Additionally, some routines included moves that were a bit more challenging for seniors. While it’s essential to promote strength and mobility, I appreciated that ChatGPT also emphasized the importance of gentle movements. It was helpful to have options that could be adjusted based on individual capability, ensuring that all seniors could participate without feeling overwhelmed.

The Benefits of Using ChatGPT for Chair Yoga Routines

One of the best aspects of using ChatGPT is the simplicity and ease of the prompts that can yield a complete routine in just seconds. With a few straightforward requests, I was able to receive comprehensive chair yoga routines that catered to seniors. This capability makes it incredibly convenient for anyone looking to enhance their fitness or explore new exercise options without having to spend a lot of time researching on their own.

Efficiency and Convenience

The speed at which ChatGPT generates responses is truly impressive. In mere moments, I had access to a variety of routines tailored for senior chair yoga. This efficiency allows users to quickly find what they need, making it an excellent tool for those with busy schedules or anyone who appreciates having information readily available.

Thoughtful and Comprehensive Routines

ChatGPT does all the thinking for you, assembling routines that incorporate a range of movements, from gentle stretches to balancing exercises. This thoughtful compilation ensures that users receive well-rounded practices that promote flexibility, strength, and relaxation.

Quality Check Required

However, it’s essential to review the results to ensure they are well-organized and suitable for the intended audience. While ChatGPT provides a solid foundation, verifying the arrangement of exercises and their appropriateness is key to ensuring a safe and effective workout. This step is particularly important for seniors, as the right modifications may be necessary to accommodate individual fitness levels and any physical limitations.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the ease of generating complete routines with ChatGPT is a significant advantage, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in chair yoga. With its ability to quickly provide thoughtful suggestions, it simplifies the process of creating exercise plans. Just remember to double-check the results to ensure they meet your needs and are safe for practice. With this approach, ChatGPT can be an excellent partner in enhancing your fitness journey!

Overall, my experience with ChatGPT was positive. It quickly provided me with well-structured and thoughtful routines that catered to various fitness levels. The blend of familiar exercises and new movements allowed for a comprehensive approach to chair yoga. While there were instances of repetition and some challenging options, the assistance I received was invaluable in enhancing my understanding of senior chair yoga practices. I look forward to trying out the routines and customizing them for my needs!

April 5, 2025

1-Minute Challenge: March with Your Eyes Closed! 👀
Think you can do it? Join us for this fun and exciting challenge! March in place with your eyes closed for one whole minute, trying to stay on the Mark X. It’s a great way to test your balance and coordination while having a blast! Are you up for the challenge? Share your experience in the comments below! Let’s see how many of you can stay on target!

April 1, 2025

A Wonderful Day in Chair Yoga at Riviera Apartments!

Today’s chair yoga class at Riviera Apartments in Ottawa was an incredible experience! I was thrilled to see 30 to 40 participants, with a remarkable turnout of men eager to engage in this gentle yet effective practice. It’s inspiring to witness so many men embracing chair yoga, showing that wellness knows no gender and encouraging others to join in.As we settled into our chairs, the energy in the room was infectious.

Everyone was enthusiastic and ready to learn, embracing the opportunity to improve their flexibility and strength. We flowed through a variety of gentle stretches and mindful movements, all designed to promote relaxation and mobility.The sense of community was palpable, with participants encouraging one another and sharing smiles throughout the session. It’s heartwarming to create a welcoming space where residents can prioritize their health and support each other in their wellness journeys.

Thank you to everyone who attended today’s class at Riviera Apartments! Your commitment to staying active is truly inspiring, and I look forward to seeing you all in our next session. Let’s keep moving and stretching together!

More Photos from Riviera!

March 26, 2025

Quick Core Workout features a dynamic workout that focuses on four essential core exercises designed to deliver maximum results in minimal time. This efficient routine targets your abdominals, obliques, and lower back, ensuring a comprehensive core workout. Perfect for all fitness levels, these four powerful moves will help you build strength, improve stability, and enhance your overall performance.

March 21, 2025

Getting Ready for a Chair Yoga Class: My Plan

So, when I’m getting ready for a chair yoga class, the first thing I do is pick out the poses that work well together, especially those that help stretch our sides and hips. Once I’ve got my poses set, it’s like I’m creating a cool flow of movements that will help everyone relax. 

I’ll kick things off with a gentle warm-up to help everyone ease into it and get their bodies ready to move. 

After the warm-up, I choose a theme for the class, like focusing on shoulder work, hips, or legs. This helps keep things interesting and gives us a specific area to concentrate on. Then, I’ll guide everyone through each seated pose related to that theme, making sure I explain things clearly and offer options for those who might need an easier version. 

To wrap things up, I’ll lead some gentle stretches to help everyone let go of any leftover tension. Throughout the class, I’ll remind everyone to breathe in through their noses and out through their noses to keep a chill vibe going. 

It’s all about making it fun and relaxing!

March 6, 2025

The Importance of Social Connection in Fitness: Friends Who Sweat Together, Stay Together!

Let’s be real: working out alone can sometimes feel like a scene from a dramatic movie where the hero is trudging through the wilderness, battling the elements, and questioning their life choices. But fear not! Enter the magic of social connection in fitness, where group practice and community transform your workout from a solitary slog into a joyous celebration of sweat, laughter, and possibly too many protein bars.

1. Motivation: The Power of Peer Pressure (the Good Kind!)

There’s something about having a workout buddy that makes you less likely to hit the snooze button for the fifth time or skip leg day (again). When you know your friends are counting on you to show up for that group class, it’s hard to justify lounging on the couch with a pint of ice cream—no matter how tempting it may be. Plus, nothing quite beats the motivation that comes from hearing your friend shout, “Let’s go, team!” while you’re gasping for air in a plank position. Talk about a fitness cheer squad!

2. Support: The Ultimate Fitness Safety Net

Let’s face it: sometimes, we need a little extra encouragement to push through those last few reps or to try that intimidating yoga pose that looks like it requires a degree in contortionism. Enter your trusty workout crew! Whether it’s a gentle nudge to keep going or a rousing rendition of “Eye of the Tiger” while you tackle the last mile of a run, having a group around you creates a safety net of support. Plus, you can share those awkward moments—like tripping over your own feet during a dance class—together, making them way less embarrassing!

3. Fun Factor: Turn Up the Laughter

Let’s be honest: working out can sometimes feel like a chore, especially when your alarm goes off at the crack of dawn. But when you add friends to the mix, it’s like sprinkling glitter on a dull exercise routine. Group classes are filled with laughter, inside jokes, and the occasional “oops, I meant to do that!” when someone loses their balance. Who knew that sweating profusely could be so entertaining? Plus, there’s nothing quite like post-workout high-fives and the shared satisfaction of conquering a tough session together.

4. Accountability: The Fitness Buddy System

Having a workout buddy is like having a personal trainer, a motivational speaker, and a life coach all rolled into one. When you know someone else is tracking your progress (and possibly your snack intake), it’s a lot harder to fall off the fitness wagon. Your buddies will hold you accountable—whether that means calling you out for skipping yoga or reminding you to hydrate (because let’s be honest, that glass of water sometimes gets forgotten in the chaos of life).

5. Community: Finding Your Tribe

The beauty of group fitness is that it creates a community of like-minded individuals who share similar goals, whether that’s getting fit, feeling fabulous, or simply surviving another round of burpees. When you find your fitness tribe, it fosters a sense of belonging that extends beyond the gym. You’ll bond over shared struggles, celebrate each other’s victories, and maybe even plan a post-workout brunch (because who can resist pancakes after a good sweat?).

In conclusion, the importance of social connection in fitness cannot be overstated. Group practice and community foster motivation, support, laughter, and accountability—all essential ingredients for a successful fitness journey. So go ahead, grab a friend (or ten), and dive into the wonderful world of group workouts. Remember, friends who sweat together stay together—and they probably have the best post-workout snacks, too! Now, let’s get out there and make some fitness memories—preferably without tripping over ourselves!

February 27, 2025

I tried standing on one leg for a minute…

Turns out, my balance is as unstable as my WiFi!

Why did the yogi stand on one leg for so long?

Because they didn’t want to jump to conclusions about their balance!

February 26

Join Andre & Ryan for a 2-Minute Balance Challenge as you stand on one foot while flowing through a dynamic routine! This quick yet effective sequence will test your stability, strengthen your legs and core, and improve focus. Stay steady as you move through controlled motions, shifting your weight while maintaining balance. Can you keep your foot lifted the whole time? Let’s find out together!

https://www.udemy.com/course/fall-prevention-yoga-for-seniors/learn/lecture/48134309#overview

February 21, 2025

Test your balance and stability with this one-foot standing challenge, guided by Andre’s flow routine. This sequence will help strengthen your legs, improve coordination, and enhance focus as you shift through controlled movements. Follow along and see how long you can stay steady—challenge yourself to improve with each session!

February 19, 2025

How long can you stand on one leg? What it says about your health.

What’s the big deal with balance?

Good balance, muscle strength, and an efficient gait are some of the major factors to our independence and well-being as we age.

“If you can’t stand on your leg for five seconds, you’re at risk of falls,” Dr. Kaufman told The Washington Post.

CNN, Kaufman said that good balance “provides the ability to carry out activities” of day-to-day life, “without the fear of falling.” This, he said, “leads to improved quality of life and healthy aging.”

A healthy life is all about balance. If you’re older than 50 and can stand on one leg for at least 30 seconds, scientists say you’re aging really well, even if you sway from side to side. There is evidence that as a person ages, their balance deteriorates faster than their muscle strength or their walking speed.

Here’s a chart showing the average length of time a person can stand on one leg based on age groups. The data is approximate and based on general balance research. Compare yourself against the test. How long you should be able to stand on one leg?

Average Time Standing on One Leg

NHS Health & Wellbeing Standard

Age Group; 18 – 39 years, standing on 1 foot for 43 seconds

Age Group; 40 – 49 years, standing on 1 foot for 40 seconds

Age Group; 50 – 59 years, standing on 1 foot for 37 seconds

Age Group; 60 – 69 years, standing on 1 foot for 30 seconds

Age Group; 70 – 79 years, standing on 1 foot for 18 seconds

Age Group; 80 – 90 years, standing on 1 foot for 5 seconds

Balance naturally declines with age, but regular yoga, strength training, and balance exercises can help improve stability and prevent falls!

Andre Beaulne

Hockey!

Feb 13, 2025

Short Yoga Class Using NHL Referee Signals! 🏒🧘‍♂️

Check out my Referee Signal Yoga Class! 🏒✨ In this fun and unique session, we’ll flow through poses inspired by NHL referee signals, bringing movement, focus, and creativity into our yoga practice.

🖥 Watch it here 👉 https://youtu.be/dh21ORAnCSo

⚡ Signals in this class include:
🚫 No Goal
🥅 Penalty Shot
❌ Cross-Checking
🪒 Slashing
🤚 Holding
👊 Roughing
⛔ Tripping

Join me for this playful and energizing yoga experience, perfect for hockey fans and yoga lovers alike! Let’s move, breathe, and have some fun.

February 4, 2025

Benefits of Chair Yoga for Seniors: Stretching, Strengthening, and Smiling!

Chair yoga is like the friendly neighbor who brings over cookies—it’s adaptable, welcoming, and perfect for seniors looking to enjoy the many perks of traditional yoga while comfortably seated in a chair. This practice is tailored to accommodate varying levels of mobility, allowing older adults to benefit from yoga without the risk of falling flat on their backs (or faces!). Let’s dive into how chair yoga can enhance flexibility, build strength, and promote mental well-being—all while keeping a smile on your face!

Enhancing Flexibility

One of the standout benefits of chair yoga is its ability to improve flexibility. As we gracefully glide through the golden years, our bodies often become a bit creaky—think of it as becoming a classic car that needs a little extra oil. Chair yoga poses involve gentle stretches that target major muscle groups, helping to loosen those tight muscles and increase range of motion. This newfound flexibility not only makes daily activities easier—like bending to tie your shoes or reaching for that last cookie on the top shelf—but also reduces the risk of falls. After all, we want you to remain as independent as possible, even if that means getting up from your chair for a snack!

Building Strength

Chair yoga also plays a crucial role in building strength—without the need for heavy weights or those perplexing machines at the gym! Many poses engage core muscles and use body weight for resistance, helping to tone and strengthen muscles without the strain of traditional weightlifting. Strengthening those legs and core muscles is vital for maintaining balance and stability, which are essential for preventing falls. Plus, who doesn’t want to show off their impressive posture? With regular practice, seniors can rise from their chairs with the grace of a gazelle (or at least a well-coordinated cat), tackling everyday tasks with newfound confidence!

Promoting Mental Well-Being

Now, let’s not forget about the mental perks of chair yoga! This practice incorporates mindful breathing and relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress and anxiety. By focusing on your breath and living in the moment, you can cultivate a sense of calm and tranquility—much like sipping tea on a sunny day. This mindfulness is especially beneficial for older adults, as it can help alleviate symptoms of depression and boost overall mood. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the joy of connecting with others in a chair yoga class, combating feelings of loneliness and isolation. It’s like a social hour with a side of stretching!

Conclusion

In summary, chair yoga offers a wealth of benefits for seniors, making it an excellent addition to any wellness routine. By enhancing flexibility, building strength, and promoting mental well-being, chair yoga empowers older adults to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives—while still being able to enjoy their favorite armchair! Whether practiced in a class or at home, this gentle form of exercise can significantly improve quality of life, encouraging seniors to stay active, engaged, and connected. So roll out your mat, grab your favorite chair, and let the good times—and good stretches—roll!

January 11, 2025

Hello everyone! I am thrilled to announce that I am creating a new Free Senior Chair Yoga Class designed specifically for our wonderful seniors! As someone who has dedicated over 30 years to teaching fitness and dance, I understand the importance of keeping our seniors moving, active, and engaged.

What to Expect in the Class

This free class will focus on foundational chair yoga basics, making it accessible for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or have some experience. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s included:

• 6 Video Lessons: Each lesson will guide you through gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and movements tailored to enhance mobility and flexibility, all from the comfort of your chair.
• Foundational Techniques: We’ll cover the essential principles of chair yoga, ensuring you have a solid understanding before diving into the lessons.

Benefits of Chair Yoga

Chair yoga is a fantastic way for seniors to stay active without the strain that traditional yoga poses might cause. The benefits include:

• Improved balance and coordination
• Enhanced flexibility
• Increased strength
• Stress relief and relaxation

Join Me on This Journey!

I am passionate about helping seniors find joy in movement, and I can’t wait to share this free resource with you all. Stay tuned for more updates on the launch date and how to access the class! Let’s keep moving and thriving together! Warm regards,
Andre
Chair Yoga with Andre

January 2, 2025

Seeking Your Input for Our Chair Yoga Video Themes!

Hello, wonderful community! 🌟 As we kick off the new year, I’m excited to embark on a chair yoga project that aims to create the best chair yoga page possible! To make this journey a success, I would love to hear your thoughts and advice. Whether you’re a senior or the child of a senior, your feedback is invaluable to me! I have compiled a list of potential video themes, and I’m eager to know:

What is your favorite pick from the list?
Here are the themes I’m considering:

• Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention
• Positive Aging
• Move Those Hips
• Neck and Shoulder Relief
• Arthritis Relief
• Pain Management
• Chronic Fatigue
• Memory Enhancement
• Senior Chair Yoga Mastery – What Every Teacher Should Know

Additionally, I would love to hear any suggestions you might have for new themes! Your insights will help me tailor the content to better serve our community and ensure that we address the needs and interests of everyone involved. Let’s work together to make this chair yoga page a fantastic resource for all as we embrace the opportunities of the new year!

Thank you for your input—I can’t wait to hear your thoughts! 💬✨